This tattoo design presents a koi fish rendered in black and grey with flowing waves that curl around its body in a dynamic, fluid motion. The koi’s body is covered in meticulously arranged scales, each shaded with fine gradations to create depth while preserving crisp linework for lasting readability on skin. Surrounding water and foam provide contrast, guiding the eye along the sinuous form and giving the piece a cinematic rhythm. The composition nods to Japanese tattoo traditions, where water and koi symbolize perseverance, transformation, and resilience, and it can be tailored to honor personal meaning through the placement and scale of the motif. The technique emphasizes a balance between bold outer contours and interior shading, suitable for a bold black and grey tattoo design or refined fine line work depending on client preference. Although this is an AI-generated tattoo project concept, it translates well into a custom tattoo design created by a skilled artist, with potential adjustments to suit anatomy, skin tone, and desired canvas area. Pattern-like repetition of scales and waves creates a cohesive motif that remains legible from near and afar, while negative space along the margins keeps the composition breathable and timeless. The koi and waves also offer avenues for symbolism—endurance, growth, and the cycle of life—making this a meaningful tattoo for those seeking a piece that blends traditional imagery with contemporary technique. For production, the reference scene includes a paper sketch, pencils, brushes, and masking tape, suggesting a disciplined workflow and the transition from concept to skin. If the client prefers a more compact version, the motif can be distilled into a fine line tattoo with delicate line weight and reduced shading, while larger placements allow more expansive wave motion and deeper tonal gradations, ensuring the final piece remains visually striking across years of aging. This piece can adapt to broader tattoo design trends, including lotus flower tattoo, infinity tattoo, tribal tattoo, rose tattoo design, small tattoos, flower tattoos, custom tattoo design, Japanese style tattoo, black and grey, realistic tattoo, body art, and ink. Additionally, note that these are AI-generated tattoo projects to illustrate the concept’s potential.