Skulls are like bumholes – everyone’s got one – but happily this exhibition is about the former. As a symbol the skull has a rich history, whether it be as a menacing warning of danger on a pirate flag, or on a health and safety sign (an equally deadly scourge). In tattoo art it’s a grim reminder of the fate that awaits us at the end of the road, or a representation of a wearer’s devil-may-care attitude to death. Mexican Day of the Dead rituals can’t get enough of them – the skulls now replaced by decorative models were once the real bones of relatives kept as trophies. That’s one tradition you don’t mind dying out.
London tattoo parlour The Circle is currently hosting Everyone’s Got One: A Skull Showcase in conjunction with Atomica Gallery. A number of artists have been asked to contribute art, including skull tattoo flash designs from the likes of Ricardo Cavolo, Jack Pearce and Mister Paterson, which are available as tattoos for the duration of the show. Limited edition prints are also available if you fancy something less permanent. The skull may be a timeless icon, but the event finishes 29 March.
Ramon Maiden
Nick Sheehy
Luke Thomas
Charlie Immer
Castro Smith
Dan Holliday
Tattoo flash
