Designs for Living

Getting your options covered in ink.Striking Polynesian design is the hallmark of tattoo artist Trevor Marshall.Born in New Zealand, he was influenced by imagery of the native people, a melting pot of Polynesian races.As a former civil engineering draftsman he has an interest in lines – the enduring beauty of native art is just that – simple lines in a complex pattern.Marshall’s designs develop as he melds traditional patterns and carefully uses negative space. Shades of gray are created where designs are overlapped and hence receive more ink. When complete, the statement on the contours of the body is a dramatic one, indeed. There is no need for bright colors; the imagery carries itself. Surprisingly, Marshall says his clients are conservative and the tattoos are in private areas and not for shock value.Oceanic Tatau, his Portsmouth shop and gallery, opened in June, but Marshall has lived in New Hampshire for eight years and, prior to that, 12 years in Los Angeles. Now his clients from the West Coast follow him here, in addition to clients from all over the world looking to add another element to their very personal canvas.Looking for a little design work? Latest trends for women are tattoos on the top of the foot and rib cage while men tend to stick to the upper body and legs. If you are intrigued, be forewarned: Marshall says people come in for a small tattoo and then their interest grows – and so does the tattoo.Marshall charges by the hour and work can cost from hundreds to thousands of dollars.