Derek Hart

My latest ink honors my Native American heritage and the passing of my grandmother, who was like a mother to me—she and my grandfather raised me. It’s a red-tailed hawk clutching an hourglass, symbolizing her spirit watching over me and the sacredness of time. Her birth flower is woven into the design to keep her close. This piece means everything to me—it’s a tribute to her love, strength, and guidance, and a reminder to live with purpose while honoring my roots.

If my tattoos could speak, they’d tell the story of a warrior shaped by struggle, spirit, and love. The tomahawk honors my uncle and the Native roots he passed to me. The double-sided spear reminds me every path has a choice. The hawk with an hourglass carries my grandma’s spirit, and the scythe, gun, and pot leaf show the chaos I came from. The ruby heart for my daughter Rubii Hart marks my new life. Every symbol is a piece of my soul—etched in ink, earned in life

If I won the $25,000 prize, I'd invest in a front loader, trailer, and possibly a newer zero-turn mower to grow my business and maintain our 200 acres. The equipment would help me earn more long-term. I’d take my wife and daughter out for a nice meal, catch up on all our bills, and finally stop stressing paycheck to paycheck. Times are tough with all the added costs and nonsense these days, so this would be a real chance to breathe, build, and move forward.