As sporting fans mourn the loss of Kobe Bryant many are coping by honoring the basketball legend with tattoos.
Kobe, 41, and his 13-year-old daughter Gianna (Gigi) died in a helicopter crash along with 7 others. The helicopter crashed into a cloud-covered hillside in Calabasas, California, on January 26.
Now the Los Angeles Lakers’ wife Vanessa Bryant has taken to social media to post an image of one tattoo that blew her away.
Tattoo artist Steve Butcher showed off his amazing work of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gigi beaming and surrounded by butterflies.
Vanessa posted a picture of the tattoo on her Instagram page praising the artist.
“Just came across this. So amazing. What a BEAUTIFUL tribute to my Gigi and Kobe. Kobe would never want to outshine our baby girl. Thank you for honoring them together❤️. @benji_kb24 This is really beautiful. @stevebutchertattoos“
More than 2 million reacted to this stunning piece of artwork with comments like “It’s so beautiful. A masterpiece ❤️” and “Wow!! Stunning work.”
The artist, who is known for his hyper-realism work, responded to the post writing: “Thank you so much Vanessa I’ve always wanted to be able to show you guys my work and show you how much love everyone has for you and your family!”
Originally from Auckland, New Zealand and now based in California, Steve’s work is influenced by pop culture “ranging from portraits of legendary sports icons, musicians and movie stars to portraits of loved ones, comic book characters, animals and much more,” according to his website.
Steve has been tattooing Kobe tributes weekly since the NBA legend’s tragic helicopter crash, according to TMZ.
His work has to be seen to be believed.
These tattoos look more like photos; simply stunning.
Please share if you too were blown away by Steve’s amazing artwork.
