The Official Jason Clay Dunn Blog

A Daruma Doll is an Awesome Tattoo Idea

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A Daruma doll is a hollow and round traditional doll. This is a Japanese tradition. They are modeled after Bodhidharma other wise known as a Dharma doll. He was the founder of the zen buddhist sect. I love these little dolls.  Daruma dolls are seen as a symbol of perseverance and good luck, making them a popular gift of encouragement.

Darumas are still usually made of papier-mâché, have a round shape, weighted at the bottom so that they will always return to an upright position when tilted over. This characteristic has come to symbolize the ability to have success, overcome adversity, and recover from misfortune. This is why they make for a cool tattoo idea with a neat little meaning behind them.

The eyes of Daruma are often blank when sold. The recipient of the doll fills in one eye upon setting the goal, then the other upon fulfilling it. In this way, every time they see the one-eyed Daruma, they recall the goal. There is also a burning ceremony for these dolls at the end of the year, people go to the temple where they received them and this is called Daruma Kuyo. They give thanks to the doll, purchase new ones and send them on there way burning them with all sorts of other figures and dolls. 

I really love to put my little twist on these lil guy's and make them fun for tattooing.  There are so many different ways to do this tattoo and I would love to do one custom just for you.  Contact me to get your very own.

Why are Chrysanthemums a Popular Tattoo Image?

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Chrysanthemums are popular because they are awesome!  I love these ancient flowers. They start out all balled up in a symmetrical little ball and as they bloom, the petals slowly curl back as if to expose the beautiful soul of the flower and create a skirt.  Very dynamic, smooth and sexy.

These flowers have a long history in art and part of royalty. They were grown in China as a flowering herb and are an honoured plant and believed to have special powers. In Japanese culture they are used as a symbol of the Emperor's crest and Imperial family. These flowers are used in all sorts of artwork.

Tattoos have always had a place for these flowers. "Mum's" are used in lot's of Japanese bodysuits and adorned all over by collectors of body art from all walks of life. I really love tattooing these flowers and all of the florets. I even have one tattooed on my left hand.  I just think they look great on men or women and have a beautiful flow that can lend to many contours of the body. Chrysanthemum's make for a solid stand alone piece or a beautiful fill in to a much larger design for your tattoo.

If you would like to get a beautiful Chrysanthemum designed just for you contact me here.

What do You Mean Kirin is Not Only Just a Great Japanese Beer?

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The Kirin is not just a great Japanese beer. The Chinese mythological creature the Kirin, is an amazing creature to get tattooed as well. The Kirin is one of the most powerful and rarest unicorn-like regal animals of all. It is holy and highly revered, and often considered a god. 

The Kirin resembles that of a deer with the scales of a dragon. It's hair is flowing and has the tail of an ox. One of the most notable features of the kirin is the brilliant holy fire it is surrounded by. The face and horns are a thing of utter beauty and serenity. 

One of my favorite behaviors of this animal is that the Kirin never eats the flesh of other beings.  The nature of the Kirin is to not tread on a living thing, even low level insects. It walks without damaging one blade of grass.

This Kirin image is for nobles and enlightened rulers and it is said that the Kirin only appears in times of world peace.

I love tattooing these beautiful creatures. If you would like to get one to adorn your body with, please go to my contact page and send me a message.  

Look Inside Inked Magazine to Read My Inkmaster Win Article

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The Inked Magazine is finally out on the stands.  Part of my Inkmaster Win was to be featured in Inked magazine.  Look for the Inked May issue. The Motorcycle Issue.  It sports a beautiful lady sitting on a bike with an Indian Larrygas tank on the cover. 

The article was written by Charlie Connell and the mysterious photography was created by Mark Abramson. It was probably too easy to interview with Charlie.  I almost feel that it's a bit revealing.  But honestly, I would'nt want it any other way.  I like the fact that it does'nt come off as a typical tattoo interview. So please my friends, go grab a copy and have an interesting read.  Once again, thanks to all the fans that voted for me to win the viewers choice award.  Thank you kindly.

Musink 2015 Was a Hit for the Tattoo Alchemy Crew

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Hey, Just a quick note to thank all the friends and fans that came out to support myself and the Tattoo Alchemy Crew at Musink this year.  We had a blast.  Hope everyone picked up a lil sticker of my logo and thanks to those who bought a F@ck Anxiety shirt!  See you next year.

To see more photos of the event follow me on Instagram: @jasonclaydunn

Or follow my Fan Page on Facebook by clicking HERE

And the Winner of the Title of Ink Master Season 5 Rivals Goes To...

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It was a long and crazy adventure trying to win this season of Ink Master.  Season 5 Rivals had plenty of drama and pitfalls for me but at the end I persevered and Won the title of Ink Master.  I also won the Viewers Choice Award.  This award carries a special place in my heart. I almost feel as if this win is more important to me than the title of Ink Master. It is you the fans that spent your time every show going online and voting for me.  I can't even begin to tell how amazing this all makes me feel especially from a kid that has struggled his whole life to become something and feel validated for my choices to create art.  Thank you so much.  Love and Kindness to all and hopefully this new year will be just as exciting for me and help me promote growth and positivity.

I truly bow my head to anyone that has suffered from panic disorder or any debilitation that is difficult to over come. After trying to endure the suffering of season 3 and season 5 I feel as if I had a duty towards all of us to try and suffer more to prove that we can live our dreams.  If I have inspired even one soul to live to his or her fullest potential then I will take that as the true Ink Master Win! Remeber life is how we choose to perceive it and nothing more.  So please, Live!  #fuckanxiety. 

Why Do I Love to Hate Painting?

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Confused yet? Me too. Why do I have this love/hate relationship with painting?  I have done everything from selling fine art in galleries to elaborate home murals. Even custom airbrushing on choppers and all sorts of other fun projects.  I often find myself wanting to be lazy or feel like it would be such a struggle to develop art. I hate the constant pull the paint and supplies have on me in the studio. One whiff of House of Kolors Kandy Paint and I'm sucked right back in.

One thing is for certain.  The studio wins everytime!