”Squid” is a nickname for submariners and it is not unusual in maritime tattoo to see a squid that stands for a submarine SAILOR. The squid is the subject of other tattoo designs as well, though, whether part of sea scenes or as an individual portrayal. Sometimes drifting and other times darting around, the squid can reach an enormous size and also can be found in deep water. It is thought that myths of sea monsters may have their foundation in the observation of these larger species. Little is known of them, however, and for OCEAN-goers they rightly represent some of the mystery of sea. Although the squid was a traditional Haida tattoo, we do not know its significance in traditional Haida culture, except to say that it was not used as a family crest (as are so many other designs). For the nearby Nootka people, however, the squid was the first master of fire. In their tale, the DEER steels fire from the squid (he lives both on land and in the sea) and gives it to mankind. The tattoo itself, like other historic tattoos of this region and era, is essentially line art, curved and flowing but simple. It shows the squid with two eyes, a mouth, and two curved arms and legs. Tattoo Symbol Meaning www.tattoobody.org

Now, for those of you who aren’t to familiar with the Haida culture should obtain some knowledge for a better understanding of the ”SQUID” and it’s significance. To get straight to the point, the Haida were indigenous people who lived mainly in the Pacific Northwest of America. Their environment being near the ocean explains a lot about their ocean themed culture, terms, language, theory’s and especially their art. Their art is and was usually expressed in large wooden carvings, totem poles, weaving’s, and or ornate jewelry and is found in the modern day Northwest Coast art. With their fearful and undefeated battles usually and always in the sea, they feel the ocean is where they have their strength and ocean creatures play a big roll in the strength theory.