Soho Inkscapades
© Dougie WallaceSoho: Tattoos that Tell Tales
Documenting 'tattoos' in Soho was not a specific project I initially pursued; rather, it organically emerged from my project on Soho Unlocked. As I observed a lot of people with tattoos, I found them fascinating.
Through my social documentary photography, I affirm the prevailing trend that has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in tattoo popularity over the past decade. Once deemed taboo or confined to specific subcultures, tattoos are now widely embraced as a means of self-expression, artistic appreciation, and empowerment. Evolving societal attitudes towards body art have transformed tattoos from symbols of rebellion to recognised works of art that celebrate individuality, even if often acquired from readily available designs. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest have provided tattoo artists with increased visibility, allowing those with compelling designs to amass large followers. Moreover, celebrities proudly displaying intricate tattoos have played a role in normalising body art, inspiring countless individuals to embrace ink.
Beyond aesthetics, tattoos can cultivate a sense of camaraderie when individuals choose to get inked together to commemorate special occasions. Young women, in particular, have been a growing market for tattoos. They have embraced this trend as a means of reclaiming ownership of their bodies and expressing their personal narratives.
Yet, my photographic style is most intrigued by documenting quirks and emerging trends. As mainstream adoption of tattoos occurs, an underground movement emerges to counter the trend. In parallel with commercial tattoos, there is a resurgence of tattoos in their original form, serving as authentic markers of belonging. The greatest attraction of Soho for me is the way it has become a canvas for those with more alternative personas, for whom tattoos represent a deeper aspect of identity rather than mere life milestones. You spot them immediately, and they make you wonder what experiences they’ve been through and what they’re about. You can’t help but marvel over their boldness and bravery while admiring their unique style. For the perceptive eye – perhaps that of a style scout – these characters would be providing cues for what’s next. It could be the colour scheme, it could be the jewellery, the piercings; it could be anything from the overall look - of which the tattoos are just one aspect.
And that’s the best part of my job. There's truly nowhere like London for staying at the forefront of fashion trends, and I consider myself fortunate to reside a stone's throw away from the zeitgeist.
-Dougie Wallace, Feb 2024
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