Creative Coping

Universally, people use tattoos to signify aspects of their lives, cultures and/ or religions that are important to them. How each person chooses to represent the different aspects of their individual human experience is what sets each person apart on a creative level. This particular example represents one man’s experience with loss and the way he has decided to cope with it. Although this tattoo is far from simple, it posses a subtle beauty that is hard to place. The man who bears it has clearly suffered a great tragedy, but it has found a way to encompass his capability of finding the humorous, silver lining in his heartbreaking situation.

            This example simultaneously conveys to the viewer both the characteristics and bravery of one man. It is not everyday that one comes across an artistic eye quite like this one. The contours of this amputation are used in such a way that becomes the creature of this person’s nightmare (reminiscent of one Bruce Wayne in a similar confrontation of fear…) and how he faces that fear on a regular basis. This particular rendition speaks volumes for the surfing and ocean front communities of people as it makes a statement about one man’s continued passion for the sea despite the anguish that it has obviously caused him. The ability to cast aside one’s fears in order to pursue their passions is nothing short of admirable and is one that a curiously large number of people that make up the surfing community posses because of the deeply personal connection they form with sea. This man’s offbeat tattoo suggests to those who see it that he is no exception.

While the majority of the picture is the representation of a creative coping mechanism, the Hawaiian tribal markings that wrap around the top of the man’s shoulder are what truly give insight into this person’s overall belief system. Whether they were there prior to or after the shark is unknown, but, regardless, they are indicative of this man’s passion for the sea and all that it offers to the circle of life. As a tribal marking, it connects all who wear it in on an almost spiritual level, further solidifying the bonds of their community and culture.