Tattoo Tales of Joanne

Mar. 30

Every tattoo has its story. That's why I'm continuously working on this article series—blending photos, text and audio—to share about my friend Joanne's tattoos. Enjoy!

Love Mom

Joanne Love Tattoo Steveston People — Image of Joanne’s mother’s handwriting.

Updated March 30, 2024

“My arm is full of love, a whole lotta love. This tattoo is of my mum’s handwriting copied from a note she wrote to me. I wanted to see it every day because it reminds me of her love to me and my love to her.”

An Arm Full of Love

Updated March 30, 2024

Joanne Chinese Love Tattoo Steveston People — “Love” in Chinese Traditional Character

Joanne wanted make sure she got this right—and she did—with the help of my mom.

This tattoo expresses the love Joanne holds for her husband and two sons, and celebrates the Chinese culture of her husband’s side of the family.

Joanne asked for my advice, so I consulted my mom. My mom’s recommendation was simple. Why not create a design using the single character and word for love—written in the traditional form.

The character you see in the tattoo photo means “love”. As with most Chinese characters, the word is made up of several words combined to create its meaning. In the centre of this character for love contains the word “heart”—because without a heart, how can you love?

Chinese character for “heart” that is contained inside the word “love”.

Granny Howe Still Loves Her

Tattoo of teapot and Joanne’s Granny Howe.

Updated September 7, 2023

“Everything’s better with a cup of tea and friends to chat with,” says Joanne, as she describes this teapot tattoo that was inspired by the cup and saucer gifted to her from Granny Howe (her paternal grandmother). “I used to make Granny Howe tickle my arm, when I was little.” They had a very close bond.

Listen to Joanne’s story of this tattoo that represents friendship and unconditional love.

Hearts pour out of the spout of the teapot tattoo.

Wedding photo of Joanne and husband Richard with Granny Howe.

Teapot Tattoo with design inspired by original cup and saucer.

Lord Of The Leeks

Updated July 27, 2023

Tattoo of Leeks on Joanne’s arm. Joanne’s family was know as the “Leeks Family”

We were at Save-On-Foods. Joanne looked at the sad, dry, scrawny leeks in the produce aisle. She shook her head. "Those aren't leeks!" She rolled up her left sleeve and declared, "These are leeks".

This tattoo is a representation of Joanne’s dad, mom, sister and her. Back in the UK, Joanne’s dad Keith was a member of the “Working Men’s Club”. This social club was famous for holding leek growing competitions—and as you’ll hear in this recording, Keith REALLY liked his leeks!