Tattoo Project

    For this week's project I had to create a Tattoo and explain the symbolism and why you believe it would be a great symbol for you to present to the world. I already have a black and white Tribal tattoo on my left calf with a little hint of color in the middle of the tattoo and really had no meaning to it but I do like the tribal style tattoo. 

Given the opportunity to create my own tattoo and have it mean something really got me excited to do this project.  I was born in Puerto Rico and am proud of my heritage.

Here are some elements of my Tattoo:

Puerto Rican Flag- The white star stands for the island, the three sides of the triangle for the three branches of the government, the blue for the sky and the coastal waters, the red for the blood shed by warriors, and the white for liberty, victory, and peace. 

Taino Sun- This popular symbol The Taino sun symbol is more than just a pretty design. It has a rich history and meaning that can be traced back to the Taino people of the Caribbean.

The Taino sun symbol meaning is quite fascinating as it represents everything from the sun and sky to the Taino cosmology. The Taino people believed the sun was the source of all creation and life, and that it was a symbol of strength and power. In fact, it was believed that the sun was an extremely powerful god. According to the Taino population, the sun god provided strength and longevity to both their people and life-giving crops.

Frog or Coqui - The coquí is a beloved symbol of Puerto Rico, representing much more than just a small tree frog. Coquíes are culturally significant to Puerto Ricans, often regarded as an emblem of their identity and homeland. These frogs are celebrated in local folklore, songs, and art, symbolizing the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage. The coquí's call is particularly evocative for many Puerto Ricans, reminiscent of the evenings in the island's lush, tropical environment. The coquí remains a symbol of pride and cultural identity for Puerto Ricans, embodying the spirit of the island and its people.

In modern Puerto Rican culture, the turtle symbolizes lots of traditional meanings but also the island's rich biodiversity, especially its marine life. Puerto Rico is known for its beautiful beaches and marine habitats, which are crucial nesting grounds for various species of sea turtles.

Conservation efforts for turtles in Puerto Rico also highlight the symbol's contemporary significance. Efforts to protect endangered sea turtles, such as the leatherback and hawksbill turtles, resonate with the broader themes of environmental conservation and respect for nature deeply rooted in Taíno heritage and Puerto Rican culture. Below is my tattoo.