Motorcycle Tattoos are more than just skin deep; they represent a powerful intersection of freedom, rebellion, and personal expression. For those drawn to the open road and the roar of an engine, a motorcycle tattoo is the ultimate emblem of their lifestyle and passion. Yokohama-based tattoo artist Shige, from his private studio ‘Yellow Blaze’, embodies this connection, blending his deep understanding of traditional Japanese art with his lifelong love for American motorcycles to create truly unique and meaningful tattoos. With 24 years of experience, Shige has become renowned for his ability to infuse classic Japanese themes with a distinctive, contemporary twist, particularly when it comes to motorcycle-inspired designs.
Shige’s journey into tattooing is as unique as his art. His technical prowess was honed during his years as a motorcycle mechanic in the mid-1990s, working on Harleys and Indians by day and tattooing by night. This dual life wasn’t a coincidence; for Shige, tattoos and motorcycles were intrinsically linked, “two sides of one coin.” This early immersion in biker culture heavily influenced his initial tattoo style, setting the stage for his signature fusion of Japanese artistry and motorcycle aesthetics. His passion for American motorcycles, particularly Indian Motorcycles, is evident in his work, where he masterfully translates the spirit of these machines into ink.
Shige, Tattoo Artist
For a recent project, Shige was commissioned to design artwork for the iconic Indian Motorcycle Chief, a testament to the growing recognition of tattoo artists in mainstream design. He chose a captivating design featuring the Oni demon intertwined with cherry blossoms, a mesmerizing blend of strength and ephemeral beauty. When asked about the challenge of translating his artistic skills from skin to a motorcycle, Shige expressed excitement, stating, “How will my tattoos design be transformed into motorbike design? I am excited about seeing the result.” This project highlights the expanding role of tattoo art, moving beyond the body and onto other forms of creative expression, further solidifying the cultural significance of motorcycle tattoos.
The design Shige created for the Indian Chief, the “Oni demon with storm of falling cherry blossoms,” is rich in symbolism, a hallmark of his tattoo artistry. Rejecting the notion of tattoos as mere decoration, Shige delves into the deeper meaning behind his designs. The placement of the Oni demon on the belly, as depicted in some of his tattoo work and conceptually for the motorcycle, is deliberate. Shige explains the Japanese belief that the stomach is the core of the human heart and spirit. Referencing the Samurai ritual of Harakiri, he emphasizes the stomach’s central role in Japanese culture, representing honor, intention, and inner strength.
The Japanese language is full of mystery, and it is believed that the stomach contains the entire human heart.
An Oni demon tattoo on the belly, therefore, signifies having this powerful demon at the body’s and heart’s center, embodying strong will and protection. Contrary to a purely evil interpretation, Oni demons in Japanese folklore are complex figures, warding off bad luck and protecting against malevolence. For Shige, an Oni motorcycle tattoo is a powerful declaration of resilience and determination to navigate life’s hardships with unwavering resolve. He emphasizes the importance of conveying this profound meaning to his clients, ensuring the tattoo resonates beyond aesthetics.
Complementing the formidable Oni, the “storm of falling cherry blossoms” introduces a contrasting yet harmonious element to the design. Cherry blossoms, or Sakura, are deeply symbolic in Japanese culture, representing the fleeting nature of life and beauty, “the pathos of things.” This concept of impermanence, of “sensitivity to ephemera,” as Shige describes it, connects profoundly with the spirit of riding a motorcycle – embracing the present moment and the transient beauty of the journey. The cherry blossoms serve to balance the Oni’s intensity, adding an emotional depth and philosophical layer to the motorcycle tattoo. This juxtaposition of strength and fragility, power and beauty, is a recurring theme in Shige’s work, making his motorcycle tattoos resonate with profound meaning.
Tattoo by Shige
Shige’s consultation process is as meticulous as his art. He dedicates significant time to understanding his clients, delving into their motivations and aspirations. He believes a tattoo should be a lifelong partner, requiring careful consideration and personal connection. Rather than expecting clients to arrive with fully formed ideas, Shige sees his role as a guide, using his extensive knowledge to help them discover what resonates deeply. Through in-depth conversations about personal desires, placement, size, and desired imagery—strength, kindness, storytelling—Shige crafts bespoke tattoo designs that are truly meaningful and personal. This collaborative approach ensures that each motorcycle tattoo is not just a design, but a reflection of the wearer’s inner self.
The collaboration with Indian Motorcycle on the Chief model holds special significance for Shige. Designing for such an iconic motorcycle brand, especially one celebrating its centennial, was a surprising honor. For Shige, the Indian Chief is “the bike of everybody’s dreams,” and being invited to contribute his artistic vision to this legendary machine is a career highlight. This project further underscores the growing appreciation for tattoo artistry in diverse creative fields and the recognition of tattoo artists as influential designers.
Shige Indian, left side
Shige Indian, left perspective
Beyond the artistic realm, Shige’s involvement in the Indian Motorcycle project also carries a philanthropic dimension. Profits from a raffle associated with the project are donated to the Mastectomy Tattooing Alliance (MTA), supporting mastectomy tattoos for breast cancer survivors. This charitable aspect deeply resonated with Shige, aligning with his belief in the positive impact of tattoos. He views tattooing as a powerful force for good, capable of bringing joy and healing. Drawing a parallel to the Japanese sword, Shige acknowledges the dual nature of tattoos – art form and potential weapon, capable of both beauty and harm depending on intent. He believes that when the artist’s and client’s motivations align positively, the power of the tattoo becomes immense, capable of profound personal and even collective good.
And when I heard about this charity project, I felt empathy. It made me feel even more honored to take part in this project.
The recent legalization of tattooing in Japan, while a welcome confirmation for artists like Shige, hasn’t drastically altered his personal practice. However, he is grateful for the recognition of tattoo artists as legitimate professionals and hopes to contribute to the continued positive evolution of the industry in Japan. He sees potential for further growth and acceptance, both culturally and legally, for the art of tattooing.
Shige, Tattoo Artist
Shige views the increasing collaborations between major brands and tattoo artists as a sign of changing times and a recognition of the immense talent within the tattoo community. He notes that such partnerships were unimaginable just two decades ago, highlighting a significant shift in cultural perception. This project with Indian Motorcycle is his first experience of this kind, and he is hopeful for future collaborations, seeing it as an opportunity to push creative boundaries and bring tattoo art to new audiences.
When asked why people should participate in the raffle for the Indian Motorcycle he designed, Shige’s answer is simple yet profound: “Needless to say, it’s for happiness.” He emphasizes the joy associated with both motorcycles and tattoos, and the added benefit of contributing to a charitable cause. Whether winning the motorcycle or not, participants contribute to a worthy cause, embodying the positive spirit that Shige infuses into his art and life.
Ola Stenegard, the designer of the Indian Chief, also present during the interview, shared his profound appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship and culture, drawing parallels between Japanese custom bike building and the art of Japanese tattooing. He highlighted the meticulous detail, dedication to perfection, and deep cultural roots evident in both disciplines. Stenegard’s observations reinforce the idea that Shige’s work is not just about tattoos or motorcycles, but about a deeper cultural ethos of craftsmanship and artistry that resonates globally.
I see a lot of parallels in the thinking or how you approach these two different creative fields of craftsmanship let’s say.
Shige attributes this exceptional Japanese craftsmanship to a deeply ingrained mentality, rooted in “Bushido,” a spirit of dedication and self-improvement that historically permeated Japanese society. He emphasizes the focus on perfecting a single process, a dedication to mastery that transcends mere multitasking. This philosophy, combined with historical and cultural influences, has fostered a unique environment for craftsmanship to flourish in Japan.
In conclusion, motorcycle tattoos, as exemplified by Shige’s artistry, are a powerful form of self-expression that goes beyond surface aesthetics. They embody a lifestyle, a passion, and a deep connection to freedom and individuality. Shige’s unique blend of Japanese artistic tradition and motorcycle culture creates tattoos that are not only visually stunning but also rich in meaning and symbolism. His work for the Indian Motorcycle Chief and his broader philosophy highlight the growing recognition of tattoo art as a significant cultural force, capable of influencing design, inspiring philanthropy, and bringing joy to individuals and communities alike. For those considering a motorcycle tattoo, Shige’s work offers a compelling example of the depth and artistry that can be achieved, transforming skin into a canvas for personal stories and cultural narratives.
