TaeTae

Like I said, there is nothiing wrong with wanting your tattoo to have meaning attached, the same way there is nothing wrong with just wanting artistic expression. It's a personal thing and get the tattoo that makes you happy, the most important thing is to get the right artist for the style you want. Traditional Japanese art is very similar to Chinese art. In terms of Japanese tattoos, there are no 'rules' as such, but there is what is considered to be seasonally correct, this will vary from artist to artist however as they take on their own interpretations. As Kirin is a mythical creature there is no season it can or can't be associated with, however the most classic combination would be Sakura ( cherry blossoms ). Peonies would also work, you often see Peonies paired with mythical creatures like the ShiShi which is also said to be Chinese in origin.

People who tell you will regret it because it has no meaning, are usually the sort of people who don't really know a lot about tattoos and are likely to give you backlash for whatever you get, at least in my experience. Anyway, if it ties in with your heritage, which you are trying to connect to and looks like an amazing piece of art, then win win. I have cranes, turtles and koi and planning a whole lot more, although I know what they represent within Asian culture, I got them because I like the art. With reference to the Kirin, which as you know is also a Kylin/qilin in chinese. Here is a western style Kirin done by Jess Yen. The work you posted in that link looks really good and if you like his style then see what he thinks about your ideas and get yourself an awesome tattoo.

Welcome! You came to right place and I think you won't regret abandoning the idea of getting text. Although there is nothing wrong with a tattoo having meaning you will find that some of the best, most aesthetically pleasing tattoos are bereft of any specific meanings and are just really beautiful pieces of art. A kirin is a great subject for a tattoo, I personally prefer more traditional Japanese but there is absolutely nothing wrong in getting it in any style you like! There is an entire style of Japanese tattoo which is commonly referred to as 'western Japanese' or Neo Japanese' so if that's what you prefer, or anything in between, then go for it! Just do your research and make sure you go to a quality artist.

MrToby makes a valid point, which is why you should go to a specialist in Japanese tattooing, many people have the technical ability but not everyone fully understands Japanese composition. The most classic combination is Momiji ( maple leaves ). As far as I understand with mythical creatures anything goes as they do not go with a specific season, but this a story of becoming Ryu, so maple leaves would be the most appropriate in my opinion. Here is an example by Horimatsu,

Rodrigo Melo would be a great choice, good shout there. Love his work.

Honestly my friend, I don't think you are going to be happy if you get a tattoo from your original choice. Put it down to lesson learned and forfeit your deposit if you have to. There is just no excuse these days for poor standard tattoos with so much talent around. Count yourself fortunate you came here before getting your tattoo started.

There you go man, great names there from Graeme. Check them out, pick out your favourite style, and get yourself a great sleeve.

In my opinion that work is not quite up to standard. If you are in New York then I think you have got some other options for traditional Japanese. I'm sure some of the other good people here will be able to recommend some other places if you are not yet set on your artist.

Welcome. 'RyuKoi', is great subject and makes for a really nice flowing tattoo. The best advice I could give you is to leave the composition up to the artist, as long as you go to really good Japanese specialist then it's going to be a very nice tattoo. Who is your artist of choice?

Welcome, show us some pics of your tattoos!

Welcome, there are many Japanese tattoo lovers here, including myself. Do you have any pictures of your work?

I assume you are going for a Japanese style? Just checked out his work and his Japanese is as good as any work I have seen! Great choice.

@Cork looking awesome, when is your next session?

Welcome!

@InkedMumma Thank you. You are referring to a Kappa, a popular image in traditional Japanese tattoo. If you search for Kappa tattoo you will find lots reference.

I have had blemishes/pimples on almost every tattoo session I have had. Tattooist didn't seem bothered, straight over, absolutely no problems. I would imagine it would be different if it was a very large and angry sort of pimple.

Really nice @peterpoose

@Cork, where did you get your fundoshi from?

@Wilhell How did you find the back of the thighs? Also, what plans do you have for the rest of your body, will you be getting full legs Japanese style?

Print No.3 from the series "Flowers of Japan and Scenery from Japanese Gardens (Nihon Hana Zukushi)", Ogata Gekkō (1859-1920) - 1890s. [source: ogatagekko.net]

I can't speak for the rest of Europe, but tipping is not a common practice in the UK.

Looks great @Wilhell

haha :cool:

Bit big that eh @Cork :rolleyes:

Posted that for you Fala