Bold ink, deep meaning. A cardinal for Ohio roots and lost loved ones. A gardenia for my mom. Family, memory, and connection in one.
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The idea started with my brother - he moved to Idaho and got a cardinal as a tribute to our Ohio roots. I got mine to match, symbolizing our bond and honoring loved ones we lost, as cardinals often do. I placed it in a dark forest to reflect the struggles we all face. Beneath it, I added a white gardenia, my mom’s favorite flower, as a symbol of comfort and family. The whole piece is a reminder of love, loss, and strength of family.
If your ink could speak, what would it say?If my ink could speak, it would say “I’m a reminder that even in dark times, there is always light. The cardinal represents your roots and the bond you share with your brother, no matter where life takes you. In the shadow of the forest, the gardenia shines - just like the love and strength your family gives you. I carry your memories, your story, and the hope that light will always find its way, no matter the darkness around you”.
What would you do with the $25,000?If I win, I’ll use part of the $25k to build golf club storage for a local high school golf team. They don’t have the budget, and I want to give back to the community by supporting these kids. The rest will go towards my woodworking business. Woodworking, like tattooing, is an art - each piece tells a story and requires precision and passion. This investment will help me improve my tools and materials, allowing me to continue creating meaningful work and supporting others through
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