Estee Tattoo

On Instagram I came across unbelievably detailed and intricate tattoos that were hardly the size of a tangerine. 🍊

Many of which featured stunning colors and shining metals. Most notably, in many aspects, was a perfect visualization of a Magnum condom wrapper. That sealed the deal when I was seeking an artist to tattoo my PAMP Suisse Lady of Fortune gold bar.

When I first saw the brilliant radiance of a real gold bar, I knew I wanted a tattoo now that the Lady of Fortune has finally smiled upon me. Something I thought would never happen and has brought a sigh of relief and solace. My Grandmother grew up very poor during The Great Depression and was always frugal. She saved coins by birthyear for everyone in the family and ensured that we always had a savings, plenty to eat, and a plethora of blankets to stay warm. Things she didn't have growing up. When I was young I also watched my Mom work full time to provide well for my adopted sister and I, the last two kids in the house. But it did not come easily. Bills were a struggle, but somehow she always pulled everything off. This tattoo is homage to the resilient and determined women who raised me. We made it.

When I first contacted Estee and eventually revealed my secret project, she was ecstatic! I knew I was in good hands. She scheduled me an appointment much sooner than I anticipated. The race was on for me to finish a prototype brace in time for the appointment. I JUST managed to finish it late the night prior.

She was Very prepared already, even though I had arrived early. Several stencils and eager hands were waiting. 👐 She gave me a hand bolting on the brace, and we were off to the races! I thoroughly enjoyed our conversations, from our favorite Art, to the shortcomings of Seattle cuisine. Not only did Estee attend Art School, she was a Teacher as well! Teachers, in my not so humble opinion, are some of the most underappreciated people on Earth. They give us so much for so little in return. When Estee began to pursue her passion and favorite art form, (Tattooing) her parents were less than pleased. (Much like Armandean) But her parents saw her love and expertise and eventually came around. I learned a lot about Korea, and Seoul is now high up on my travel list. As is her Brother's restaurant ONMI in North Seattle. And her English is quite good, don't let her tell you otherwise. 😉 I only speak one language and not particularly eloquently. The conversation was made even easier given that 90% of the tattooing was completely imperceptible. I think the three nerves I had to cut may have had something to do with it. Four hours of masterfully intricate work later, and I had my masterpiece! An incomprehensibly detailed Lady of Fortune on top of a Real three dimensional gold bar. Estee even managed to get the fingernails, grains of wheat, and every single other detail present. I can also see the inspiration drawn from Alphonse Mucha, one of her favorite artists. This is all on an area essentially the size of a pink school eraser. I just looked at it and I'm still impressed. I've seen it every day for a few months now, and it continues to bring a smile to my face. ☺️

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