Whatever you prefer to call them – despite any personal preferences or opinions (good or bad) – the artistry, detail and skill associated with these fleshy masterpieces is something to be admired. Tattoo composition and execution both require a keen eye, like that of any other artist. And just like wedding photography – as many of you will understand – this too is a one shot kind of deal. The results are essentially permanent and “do-overs” aren’t really an option.

I haven’t had the opportunity to blog in a while, something I’ve been inwardly slapping myself around about. Life, it seems, has decided – once again – to stumble upon one of those wonderful little “clusters”. You know the kind, where everything seems to descend on you all at once without reprieve? One of those “when it rains, it pours” type of interludes.

I recently made a trip home to New Mexico, which I wish I could say was due to entirely positive circumstances. Unfortunately, it was not. My grandmother – whom I grew up incredibly close to, and virtually lived with on a part-time basis – is deteriorating. I had to be sure that I would see her at least once more, but pray that it won’t be the last time. It’s yet another of the difficult reminders that life is transient, and beautiful, and frail; It is a most wonderful and terrible mixture of moments and emotions that transpire in the brevity between birth and death.

But back to the topic hand, I did have the opportunity to make something [beautiful] out of my time spent in the old stomping grounds. My sister, who is an avid tattoo enthusiast (and a budding artist herself), has long desired some good shots of her ever-expanding “back mural” (as I like to call it). Despite her incredibly unwarranted self-consciousness, she opened up to doing some really amazing shots. The results of which, I think are a perfect reflection of her personality, and something to show her how beautiful she really is.

So without further ado … I’ve picked out a very small handful of favorites from what’s already been processed. I have several more that I LOVE and will likely post later on. For now, though, these will serve as a sort of preview for the rest.

Remember to keep your loved ones close, no matter the distance. Learn to let things go, especially in the realization that life is fleeting. Never be afraid to hug and kiss them like there’s no tomorrow. Be corny, dance around the house like a lunatic, laugh until your belly hurts and forget about who’s watching. These are things that stay with you in the good times and the bad!

Incredible. Beautiful. Sunlight.

I like this in color and black and white, so I couldn’t decide to post one and not the other. ** grin **

Above all, keep smiling,

[My sister-in-law, Ana and her beautiful baby girl (Arryana). I just love this shot so much for some reason.]
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