Embracing the Lunar Connection: A Journey with My Full Moon Tattoo

For as long as I can remember, the moon has been my confidant, a silent witness to my thoughts and dreams. Whether perched atop a building or gazing from my window, I’ve always sought its wisdom and comfort. This intimate connection is why I chose to tattoo a full moon on my shoulder—a constant companion, forever close.

The journey of this tattoo is intertwined with my personal story, and its creation was a deeply reflective process. I began with a vision inspired by the lyrics of Porcupine Tree: "Cast off the color / And tune in to black / The moon touches your shoulder / And brings the day back." These words resonate with the solace and renewal I find in the moon’s presence, and they became the guiding force behind my tattoo.

The tattooing process spanned several years, evolving in stages to mirror the ever-changing phases of the moon. Initially, I laid down a vague, shadowy dotwork—a soft, ethereal beginning that hinted at the moon's surface. This foundational layer was a canvas upon which I would build, adding depth and detail over time.

Next, I introduced line art, carefully etching spirals and flowing lines to mimic the moon’s unique texture. These lines captured the moon's craters and valleys, each stroke a tribute to its serene beauty. The moon's surface began to take form, a blend of abstract and realism that reflected my artistic vision.

In the final stage, spread over four years, I focused on detailed dotwork. Each dot added dimension and intricacy, transforming the moon into a textured, almost tangible presence on my shoulder. This meticulous process required patience and precision, mirroring the slow, steady orbit of the moon itself.

The tattoo on my shoulder seamlessly connects with another piece I crafted on my arm—a spiraling depiction of our Milky Way. Together, these tattoos symbolize my fascination with the cosmos and the celestial dance that unites the moon and the stars. The moon on my shoulder and the galaxy on my arm form a continuous flow, representing the vastness of space and my place within it.

As I continue to add to this tattoo, I see it as an ongoing journey, much like the moon’s perpetual cycle. Each addition will tell a new chapter of my story, a testament to my evolving relationship with the lunar body. Who knows what future transformations await? This tattoo, like the moon, will continue to change and grow with me, forever a source of inspiration and connection.

In the end, my full moon tattoo is more than just an image on my skin. It’s a symbol of my bond with the moon, a reminder of the wisdom and comfort it provides. It’s a piece of art that tells my story, a story that’s still being written, one phase at a time.