A powerful contrast piece, showing two koi pushing through flames while a clean blade cuts vertically through the composition. The mix of black and grey with bold reds gives it that classic punch — calm movement clashing with heat and tension. It feels balanced but intense, like something steady being tested.

Rooted in Japanese folklore, koi are known for perseverance — swimming upstream, pushing through hardship, often linked to transformation into dragons. The addition of fire flips the usual water element, creating tension between opposing forces. The blade introduces discipline, precision and the idea of cutting through obstacles.

This one’s about resilience under pressure. Staying steady while everything around you is chaos. The koi represent persistence, the fire represents adversity, and the blade is focus — the ability to move forward without hesitation. It’s controlled strength, not loud, but undeniable.

Works best as a vertical piece — outer forearm, calf or full sleeve flow. Also sits well on the ribs or thigh where the movement can travel naturally with the body. The shape lends itself to long placements that emphasise that upward push.