Intricate SE Asia tattoos that you can wear...

ABOUTTATU, acronyms for Traditional Art Tattoo Urbanized, is a conceptual fashion line producing wearable tattoos, e.g. sleeves and leggings. They are designed to incorporate the rich elements from Southeast Asia Tattoo culture, creating bold visual aesthetics.

BRANDING IDENTITYThe word TATU is actually 'tattoo' in Malay and Indonesian Language, linking it intimately to SE Asia context. TATU also means tattoo in Tahitian, meaning “to mark some-thing”, which reflects both literally wearing of the tattoo, and metaphorically the vision to mark a fashion statement.

BRANDING PHILOSOPHYTattoo has a rich history and diversified culture all around the world. It is a cultural belief that tattoo serves as protection to ward off evil. TATU embraces this important spirit, offering the wearer protection,both literally and metaphorically.

DIRECTIONHailing as the street-wear couture, TATU offers wearer the option of staying unique and stylish. It is suitable for anyone who has affection in traditional tattoo yet not want-ing to be inked permanently; or anyone who wants a fresh interpretation of traditional tattoo in contemporary form.

USING THIS CATALOGUEBelow is the available color scheme for the sleeves and leggings. Find your most compatible color and tear out the respective perforated colored sheet included in this catalogue to view it against the various designs.

TIGERThere are hundreds of traditional Thai designs, tiger being the most popular and prominent SE Asian symbol. The tiger represents power, passion, ferocity, beauty and speed, as well as cruelty and wrath.

It is seen as both a bringer of life and death, and can be used as an amulet to ward off evil and punish sinners. It is common to see stone tigers guarding the entrances to buildings and houses as they are great protectors that can bring luck to families and businesses.

As a combination of beauty and strength, taking a tiger tattoo is to take on the tiger spirit, a spirit that will be in control of your life.

HANUMANThe Hindu Sanskrit tattoo performs much the same function of protection and to ward off evil. Hanuman the Monkey God is a fearsome creature, in the face of which most evil spirits are said to quickly retreat.

Hanuman is an Indian deity with a big heart. He has the face and tail of a monkey and a human body that is covered with white hair. He represents devotion of the heart and to learning.

As a symbol Hanuman is thought to help a person aspire to use their power for the greater good. To Muay Thai boxers the tattoo gives strength, stamina and agility.

SNAKEThe snake has a very big following in the tattoo world, as he has appeared in many myths and legends throughout mankind’s existence. Sometimes the snake is viewed as a protector, while other times he is seen as a carrier of death or temptation. The shape of a snake makes it a perfect emblem for male fertility. The two most deadly snakes, Cobras and Rattlesnakes were often considered sacred to ancient peoples. They were often considered protectors and their images were used to scare away evil spirits. The snake’s ability to shed their skin lends them to be a symbol of rebirth or immortality. The snake can symbolize power, fertility, rebirth and regeneration as well as wisdom. Because of the snake’s roll in the downfall of Adam and Eve he is also associated with temptation and sexual power.

DRAGONThis mythic animal has become a very popular tattoo symbol and is an indication of the popularity of Chinese culture in tattoo design. The dragon represents the four elements and the four points of the compass. It is a reminder of the reality of life and that sometimes to bring birth and renewal, destruction and death must occur first.

Dragon represented the supernatural and imperial power. It was in charge of the rain and has often been used as an Imperial symbol as it is said to be the ancestor of the Chinese.

The dragon plays an important role in Taoism, and the Chinese involved dragons in their artwork and used it to display the protection of Buddha.

The dragon is a perfect symbol for anyone wanting to display nobility, imagination, power and loyalty, not to mention a touch of magic and transformation.

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