Junior film major Max Zupanovic is no stranger to tattoo parlors. Boasting four large tattoos including a full back piece, Zupanovic is a true tattoo veteran.

The story of Zupanovic’s first tattoo spans back to when he was just 15 years old, a high school sophomore, in 2007. On his right bicep, he has a self-designed coat of arms consisting of elements mainly from the Croatian flag.

“I wanted something that reminded me of my roots,” said Zupanovic, current Phi Kappa Psi social chair. “And being someone who believes that a tattoo should have a deep meaning, I figured that representing my culture and heritage meant enough.”

Zupanovic’s parents, who emigrated from Croatia, have kept old-world traditions alive in their household as far back as he can remember. He assured that this consists of more than just drinking the traditional plum wine, Slivo, with other Croatians in the community.

Ever since the age of 7, Zupanovic and his family have been members of one of the more prominent Croatian clubs on the East coast. Dressing up in traditional garb, playing in Croatian bands and dancing in lively circles are some of the ways Zupanovic and other Croatians in the community celebrate their heritage.

Zupanovic, however, decided to show his patriotism using flesh and ink.

His first trip to a tattoo shop was an experience that few share. Ten minutes before his appointment at End of the Trail Tattoos in Middletown, Pa., he hand-drew the coat-of-arms design resembling the Croatian checkered shield and crown embossed with the words “hrvatski kralj,” Croatian for “Croatian King.”

Zupanovic, one year under the legal age to receive a tattoo with parental consent, enlisted the help of his mother. In full support of the tattoo, she eventually convinced artist and shop owner Eric Boes to perform the job anyway.

“I was definitely the first one to get inked in my grade; I was young and completely unafraid to show them off,” Zupanovic said. “I walked around high school with my sleeves rolled up and my arms flexed. I had even gotten my second tattoo before anyone had gotten their first.”

After five years and three more tattoos, the Croatian coat of arms is Zupanovic’s most meaningful piece of art. Self-designed to represent his heritage, the shield of Croatia has an important place in his heart, in his mind and on his arm.

Said Zupanovic: “Croatia is a beautiful place and I’m proud to be from there, but even more proud to represent where I’m from on my body till the day I die.”

Published on October 23, 2012 at 1:20 am

Contact Ian: imfeiner@syr.edu