Two out of three sittings. The background blue and green are going to get more depth. Done by the great Nathan Kostechko. Scarabs have amazing symbolism and meaning from egyptian times. This was done freehand referencing a Rick Griffin poster for Jimi Hendrix. Better pics and a finished product coming in october, LA trips ain't cheep.
check this link for the original Rick Griffin poster http://www.flickr.com/photos/guano/239984098/
Hey nice tattoo. You should enter it in the World's Best Tattoo competition. The winner gets $10,000 in cash and prizes. Log on to www.tattoolapalooza.com for all the info.
good luck