Tattoo Love: SwittersB (the Canvas) & Paul Zenk (the Inkster)

TAT/STAT VANITY DAY!

Just the other day, I alluded to a renovation of SwittersB’s Trout Tattoo. For too long the beautiful Trucha has been hovered there on my left forearm, chasing a nymph and seeming suspended and isolated.

Over the years, I had entertained other tattoos for the Trout, but all of them seemed to much in contrast with the fish: Liberty torch, Giant Dragon Fly, Dagger, reclining nude…see what I mean? But, a vision entered my mind of structure, of habitat for the fish. But I didn’t want just a blue layer above to suggest water. I thought more of snags and rocks.

I had some basic ideas and I finally settled upon the quest. I ended up at Infinity Tattoo in North Portland and upon looking at the ‘work books’ of the artist, one artist popped out…Paul Zenk @ Infinity Tattoo. He had done work that was quite close to what I was looking for: tree/snag and rock wise. Nothing with a fish though. I set up the consultation, met Paul and conveyed my ideas and like a spark of genius he started sketching on my arm and paper with suggestions that went well beyond my timid vision. Wow! I said. Done. Let’s do this.

The appointment was set and last week SwittersB’s Trout joined together with Paul Zenk’s vision and what a powerful result. More than I could have imagined. Of course, it is healing now and not suitable for prime time viewing just yet, but the pictures at the time, will give you ample clues as to how amazing a job Paul Zenk did on my forearm.

Total time was around 5 hours. Yes, that was a bit rough after say 3 hours. Mind control becomes a necessity. But, I could not be happier with the outcome and it is a perfect way to celebrate something else…as long as we are on the vanity kick….why not: SwittersB passed the 3,000,000 views mark early today. Yeehaw….thank you loyal and misguided visitors to SwittersB & Fly Fishing!!!

So, here are a few photographs of the tattoo work from beginning to end, more or less and they will give you an idea of the vision and the beautiful outcome.

This was at the beginning, after Paul Zenk applied the ‘template’ that provides a very basic concept. The rest is in the artist’s mind and hands. Trust is a factor. I had it.

The template is inked in. Here you can get a glimpse of the rock and branches idea.

Paul Zenk doing his thing.

The vision is quite evident by now…SwittersB’s Trout has a definite home.

Just finished in the shop. This is a straight on shot, and does not show the top of the forearm (more tree trunk/stump and water surface) nor the bottom of the forearm (beautiful colored rocks in various shades).

I am sure you will agree the tattoo is a serious upgrade and truly amazing. Thank you Paul Zenk. Tattoos are a love ’em or leave ’em alone sort of deal. I understand the image or perceptions and the full range of tastes out there. Of course, I did this for me. In the end, it all goes toward my vision, my personal perceptions, my celebrations. I hope you agree, it is a beautiful piece of work.