Today a gal requested a tattoo wrapping the calf of her leg, uniting a dynamic lioness head from the Book of Kells with a pattern of Celtic knot work forming the body. She had had surgery on that knee and wanted to place the tattoo there as a strengthening mark. The result is something bright and powerful, walking forth with her for the rest of her life.
Celtic Knot Lioness Tattoo by Pat Fish
The pattern for this Celtic Lioness tattoo is available for purchase and immediate download at
Years ago I did this Saint Brigid's cross on the back of a wonderful woman who has become a friend. And as it "aged gracefully" I did mention a few times that a tune-up would be appropriate, but only today when she was planning to drive through Santa Barbara did I get a chance to do a rebuild. I went over the black lines and the green in the knot work, leaving the brown in the rushes muted. Now it will be lovely for another decade.
St. Brigid's Cross Tattoo Touch-Up by Pat Fish
Tradition tells of St. Brigid, patroness of Ireland, converting a dying Pagan king by forming this cross from rushes strewn on the floor of his bedchamber. It is an enduring symbol beloved by the Irish, who fashion them from reeds and place a new one over the lintels of their homes annually.
Today a local Nordic enthusiast came to begin a sleeve of patterns derived from the Urnes Stave Church in Norway. This wild stallion entwined with writing vegetation appears on a carved wooden panel inside the church, which was originally erected in 1130 and has been constantly repaired and updated. This art may date to the oldest part, or as late as the 17th century.
Viking Horse Band Tattoo by Pat Fish
The pattern for this tattoo is available for purchase and immediate download at
Today a Ju-Jitsu martial arts competitor came to California to fight in the world championships, and then came to the studio to begin what we hope will become an extensive bodysuit of Celtic warrior tattoos. We began with this Maltese cross, and working with his highly developed anatomy this is the largest version of it I have done. His first tattoo, and a good start.
Celtic Maltese Cross Tattoo by Pat Fish
The maltese cross is also a traditional symbol for fireman - a badge of courage and faith, worn proudly by the men and women who dare to walk into the inferno to save the lives of strangers. The pattern is available for purchase and immediate download as The Fireman's Cross:
This image also available as imprinted clothing and accessories:
