A generous tattoo collector from the San Francisco Bay area sent us this fantastic tattoo of his based on a Soviet propaganda poster from the World War II era. The striking two-color tattoo features the rare Polikarpov I-16 “Rata” fighters found in the early days of the war on the Eastern front in Russia.
The contrast between the gunner and the aircraft is fantastic and very indicative of the powerful imagery used in such posters of the era. The wearer was inspired by a print of the poster he has on display in his home. He is looking for some ideas on other Soviet aviation or space themes, so if anyone has any, please send them to us and we’ll pass them along!
The artist, Gauge of Gotham Tattoo in San Francisco, doesn’t have a website, but directions to the studio can be found at this link — and he allowed us to publish his email here if you are interested in contacting him.
Please click on the link below or the image above for a larger shot of this tattoo.
We’re always looking for awesome aviation tattoos to feature here! Send us yours today by emailing us at tattoosinflight@gmail.com or submit your photo by clicking on the button at the right.
