Rock stars of the tattoo world showing their art at Scunthorpe gallery
THE rock stars of the tattoo world are displaying their art in Scunthorpe.
Labours of love, crafted by huge name designers and tattoo artists whose appointment sheets are fully-booked until 2011, can be seen at the 20-21Visual Arts Centre in Place of worship Square.
Illustrator and artist Kate “Clumsy” Hawkridge has work on show at the exhibition.
“I’ve always been interested in the thought that what you wear and your appearance is your way of communicating your personality to the world,” said Kate.
“I’m especially interested in visual identities of alternative subcultures, and this led me into a career of designing for alternative clothing brands. My interest in tattoo artwork was born out of this.”
Kate designs clothing for Criminal Destruction and incorporates many influences into her work from “old school” tattoo imagery, such as swallows, roses and skulls, to her own tongue-in-cheek themes.
“I see tattoos as another, more stable way of expressing your personality through your experience,” she said.
Staff from Nexus Tattoo in Scunthorpe are fans of the exhibition.
James Corbett, who works at the Robert Street studio, said: “this is the third time we’ve been to see it. we were really impressed, we’re massive fans of some of these artists.”
He thought it was good to see tattoo art moving out of sub-culture to be viewed by a wider audience.
“It was once an underground thing but it’s now reflected into an art gallery,” said James.
“It’s a real step up. and it’s free, so there’s no excuse not to come down and see it.”
Tom Caine, a tattooist at Nexus, said he was inspired by the artist Kamil Mocet who has work at the exhibition.
“for me, the whole point is that it’s an art form,” said Tom. “It’s nice to see it appreciated. I think it’s more socially acceptable to have tattoos now.”
Nexus Tattoo has had all manner of customers, not just the stereotypical bikers and punks.
Councillor Christine O’Sullivan, cabinet member for sport, leisure and culture, said: “Art with a Pulse II is a original glimpse into this fascinating subject and features work by some of the largest names in the tattoo world today. the first tattoo exhibition at 20-21 in 2001 proved incredibly well loved and I’m sure this show will be just as successful.”
The exhibition runs until September 4.
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