Tattoo #6 - Âu Cơ Pin-up

Inked on 8/13/16 by Michael Duke of Mr. Lucky's Fine Tattoo in Orange, CA. This tattoo, placed on Dat's left inner forearm, is inspired by the ancient Vietnamese legend of Lạc Long Quân and Âu Cơ (The Dragon & the Fairy), of which many consider is the Vietnamese origin story. This tattoo is an interpretation of Âu Cơ, done in the American Traditional pin-up style.

Tattoo #5 - Flapper Pin-up

Inked on 8/12/16 by Alvin Aldrige of Mr. Lucky's Fine Tattoo in Orange, CA. This American Traditional tattoo of a Flapper pin-up on Dat's right inner forearm is a reminder to "just live" as the flappers did in the 1920s & 30s. The diadem/tiara is inspired by the one Carey Mulligan wore in the 2013 rendition of The Great Gatsby.

Tattoo #4 - The Kraken

Inked on 7/14/16, the Kraken comes from one of Dat's favorite prolific artists in Steven Noble. Recognized from the Kraken Rum bottles, this tattoo was done by Andy Tran of My Tattoo in Huntington Beach, CA. This particular Kraken symbolizes wisdom and is recognized for its ability to recover from difficult situations. The Kraken is able to camouflage & remain unseen, yet able to go on the offensive without notice. This tattoo was inspired by a 2015 breakup in Chicago.

Tattoo #3 - Quill Pen

Inked on 7/13/16 by Damien Ornelas of My Tattoo in Huntington Beach, CA, this Quill Pen tattoo is done in the style of black & grey realism and is loaded with personal meaning. The fleur de lis inscribed on the nib, while faint, represents Dat's birthplace and roots as a child living in Baton Rouge and New Orleans, LA. The quill itself is a reminder for him to write to his mother more often, as they do not get along very well when they speak on the phone or see each other in person. Their best conversations are through the letters they write to each other.

Tattoo #2 - Lotus

Inked on 6/21/16, Dat's 2nd tattoo is a Lotus, also done by Chris Orta of Insight Studios in Chicago, IL. Placed slightly below his left elbow, this black & grey realism piece represents revival. The national flower of Vietnam, the lotus' roots run deep in swamplike and muddy environments, but blooms beautifully and fragrant. This parallels the start of the recovery process of a disastrous breakup Dat suffered with an ex-girlfriend of 6 years.

Tattoo #1 - Chicago Skyline EKG

Inked on 6/15/2016, this Chicago Skyline EKG tattoo was done by Chris Orta of Insight Studios in Chicago, IL. Placed on his left chest, Dat's first tattoo represents his time spent in the Windy City during 2012-2016, as a reminder that Chicago will "always be in his heart."