Frequently Ask Questions for Tattoo Inquiries

How do I choose a tattoo design?
Choosing a tattoo design is a deeply personal and collaborative process that involves sharing your life story and inspirations with your tattoo artist. 
Here’s how to approach selecting a design:

1. Personal Consultation:

   • During consultation, you will discuss your tattoo ideas, tattoo placement and inspirations. It is crucial to bring references and idea concepts that resonate with you. 

   •  King-Afa designs your art based on your story. You are the author of your life and he’s the artist.

2. Artistic Integrity:

   • King ‘Afa creates your tattoo on your  appointment date, ensuring that it is a genuine reflection of your story transformed into abstract art. 

   • Just as you wouldn’t ask a Toyota Japanese engineer to build a car like an American Ford engineer. Tinker Hatfield does not design an Air Jordan to look like Yeezys. Versace design is different from Gucci. Tupac's writing artform is different from Biggie's. Ridley Scott directs his films differently from Sergio Leone.
     King-Afa does not design like other Polynesian artists who grew up in America, he will craft your tattoo in his distinctive thought process.

3. Cultural Significance:

   • Polynesian, Micronesian, and Melanesian tattoos are more than just aesthetically appealing; they are a form of ancient written language of ancient Pacific Island Civilization culture from 3000+ years ago.

   • King ‘Afa’s approach is deeply rooted in these traditions, offering a Tongan Fijian Samoan perspective that differs from Western Americanized interpretations and commercialized trends. 

   • His understanding of these ancient Pacific Island arts is informed by his upbringing in the deeply cultural societies of Fiji, Tonga and Samoan, a culture dating back to 900 BC.

4. Unique Artistic Style:

   • King ‘Afa’s designs are not influenced by current tattoo trends that often feature stylized and unorganized patterns. 

   • His artwork keeps the essence of authentic cultural heritage and storytelling, reflecting the depth of meaning in ancient Pacific Island art.

5. Cultural Heritage:

   • The tradition of tattooing in Polynesia began in Fiji, and was shared with Samoa, then shared with Tonga, and  then spread across the East Polynesian regions up north and South Pacific. 

   • Each Polynesian culture, from Tahiti to Hawaii to Aotearoa New Zealand, has its unique social and political structures, which influence their tattoo designs. 

   • King ‘Afa’s art reflects the ancient marvel legendaries and unique characteristics of Pacific Island cultures, offering a tattoo that is not only visually stunning but also rich in historical and cultural significance.

6. Your Story in Ink:

   • Your tattoo will be a lifelong piece of art, telling your story while also honoring the cultural traditions of the Pacific Islands. 

   • King-Afa’s unique approach ensures that your tattoo is a true reflection of both your personal journey and the ancient heritage of the art form.

Understanding Your Skin Type:

Before proceeding with  your tattoo, take a close look at the area of your skin where you plan to get tattooed. 
The skin should be free from major issues that could affect the tattooing process. 
If you're unsure about your skin's condition, it's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist. 
They can provide insights into your skin type and any concerns you should be aware of.

Skin Conditions and Tattooing:

Certain skin conditions can make tattooing difficult or even harmful. 
Here's what you need to know about how various conditions can affect your tattoo:
 

1. Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, it may be more prone to irritation from the tattooing process. Discuss this with your tattoo artist to adjust their technique or inks accordingly.

2. Skin Diseases: Conditions like psoriasis, eczema, or severe acne can interfere with the healing process and affect the tattoo ink's appearance. Tattoos should not be placed on affected areas.

3. Scarring: Areas with significant scarring may not hold ink as well and could result in an uneven appearance of the tattoo.
    

Tattooing on Thin or Delicate Skin: Important Considerations;

1. Risk of Blowout: Thin skin is prone to tattoo ink spreading beyond the design, requiring extra skill to prevent blurring. 
2. Higher Sensitivity: Thin skin is more sensitive, making the process more painful due to closer nerves and less cushioning.
3. Longer Healing Time: Healing is slower with thin skin, increasing the risk of complications like infections or irritation.
4. Potential Scarring: Thin skin is more likely to scar, especially in those prone to keloids or hypertrophic scars.
5. Ink Challenges: Thin skin fiber does not absorb tattoo ink molecules easily, resulting in faded or less vibrant tattoos.
6. Placement Issues: Areas with thin skin (like joints) are harder to tattoo due to constant movement and proximity to bones.
7. Allergic Reactions: Thin skin is more likely to react to tattoo ink, potentially affecting healing and appearance.
 
Given these complexities, the tattoo process on your thin paper/ delicate skin requires a high level of craftsmanship and extra time, careful handling precision and expertise extra effort to ensure a safe outcome for your lifetime art. 
I cannot compromise on pricing—it reflects the skill, care, and artistry necessary for a successful result. This is your lifetime investment  and I want you to give you the best art.