Aquatica Monthly: July 24’ - Don Ed Hardy
Welcome to AQUATICA MONTHLY.
A new monthly insight into the ongoings at AQUATICA TATTOO.
Join us each month as we dive into tattoo related topics, share information about our upcoming Guest Artist roster, feature our favourite tattoos as of late, keep you updated on booking availabilities and much more!
Monthly Topic - Don Ed Hardy
Each issue of AQUATICA MONTHLY we will be diving into a new tattoo related topic in an effort to share more information around the world of tattooing.
This month were taking a deep dive into DON ED HARDY and his imact on modern day tattooing.
Don Ed Hardy is a pivotal figure in the modern tattoo industry, renowned for his transformative impact on the art form. Born in 1945, Hardy's journey began in the 1960s when he immersed himself in tattoo culture, eventually studying at the San Francisco Art Institute and training under Japanese tattoo masters. His unique style blends traditional American tattoo motifs with Japanese techniques, creating intricate designs characterized by bold outlines, vibrant colors, and a meticulous attention to detail.
Hardy's influence extends beyond his exceptional artistry; he played a crucial role in elevating tattoos from a marginalized subculture to mainstream acceptance. Through his tattoo studio, art exhibitions, and publications, he helped foster a deeper appreciation for tattooing as a legitimate art form. His collaborations with fashion brands and his eponymous clothing line further cemented his impact, bringing tattoo-inspired designs to a global audience.
Moreover, Hardy's contributions are not limited to his own artwork; he mentored numerous artists who have gone on to become influential figures themselves, perpetuating and evolving the art of tattooing. His legacy is evident in the widespread recognition of tattoos as a form of personal expression and artistic prowess, breaking down societal stigmas and fostering a culture where tattoos are celebrated for their beauty and significance. Don Ed Hardy's enduring impact continues to shape and define the tattoo industry, leaving an indelible mark on art and culture worldwide.
Don Ed Hardy was pivotal in the recognition of the artistry behind tattooing in the west. In 1968, when he opened his first tattoo studio, tattoos were strictly relegated to the outskirts of American society, and the only people getting them were either sailors or motorcycle-gang members. His first professional commission was tattooing a Bugs Bunny on a junkie’s stomach.
Before Hardy, there was no such thing as tattoo art. Tattooing was a rich, robust folk tradition that had been practiced through the centuries in every corner of civilisation but had gone unrecognised as an art form in Western society.
Although American tattoo artists had developed an especially powerful style over the course of the twentieth century, the medium's skilled practitioners never aspired to the realms of fine art. But Hardy always knew that tattoos were art. The ideal person to open up the tattoo world to the rest of society, he mixed his childhood fascination with the craft and his scholar's instinct in the subject with his training in multiple mediums and art history at the San Francisco Art Institute to lead the tattoo world out of the underground into the light of day.
He established the first tattoo exhibitions and trade shows, published magazines and books devoted to the subject, and pioneered incursions into the most sacred provinces of the art world-galleries and museums.
Over his career, Hardy left no corner of the tattoo world unexplored. In addition to introducing the Japanese tattoo tradition to the United States, he had his fingerprints all over the introduction of "tribal" tattoos in the 1980s, a style he helped revitilse with designer Leo Zulueta and fellow tattooer Michael Malone, who tattooed in Honolulu under the name Rollo Banks. In the 1980s he became absorbed with the fine-line black-ink tattoos most commonly found in prisons, investing in an East LA tattoo shop that specialised in the genre and opening his own San Francisco studio devoted to the style. And during the 2000s, his designs and drawings went absurdly aboveground on a massively popular line of T-shirts, trucker caps, and assorted casual wear that spread the name "Ed Hardy" around the world.
July’s Guest Artists
We are always excited to have the opportunity to work alongside visiting guest artists. Giving us a chance to feature new styles within the studio.
Anais
Anais specialises in fine-line tattooing focusing heavily on ornamental and nature based designs. Inspired by elements of the earth and feminine energy combined with precise line-work and delicate, she looks to enhance her clients natural anatomy with some truly beautiful and Intricate pieces.
Availability this month
26th July
27th July
Artist Series VOl. 4: Mental Ben
The AQUATICA TATTOO Artist Series is a program designed to showcase the talent of local artists in collaboration with our studio. It empowers artists to shape our brand and exhibit their unique styles.
Ben Brown's roots run deep in the vibrant coastal town of Manly, where he witnessed the flourishing scenes of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Immersed in the thriving surf, skate, and punk rock culture of his upbringing, Ben's artistic journey is a fusion of these influences.
Ben's work is known for its vivid colours and bold designs, which exude energy and liveliness. While it can occasionally push boundaries and challenge norms with its confrontational nature, the overall vibe remains playful and enjoyable.
A legend in the dynamic illustration universe, Ben Brown's exceptional portfolio has significantly influenced surf, skate, snow, music, and film scenes on a global scale.
With over thirty years of experience, his evolution as an artist mirrors his enduring love for music. Having been part of the local music scene, Ben holds a profound admiration for fellow passionate artists who continue to make a mark in their own unique style.
Upcoming Events
We are always excited to both participate and host events within the tattooing space.
Find all the all the details below on whats in store.
The Irongate Tattoo Convention
We are humbled to announce we will be attending
THE IRONGATE TATTOO CONVENTION
hosted by IRONTEMPER SUPPLIES!
The Iron Gate is Australia’s newest premier tattoo convention, set to be biggest display of both homegrown and international talent.
Being hosted at the Hordern Pavilion, Moore Park, Sydney this November the 1st - 3rd.
Made To Suit
The Made To Suit Art Exhibition started an exciting collaboration between some of the Gold Coast’s finest tattoo artists. This exhibition showcases the unique artistic talents and individual styles of 45 tattoo artists as they each create a full body-suit on a life size canvas. This exhibit is an annual event and we invite tattoo artists from all over the country.
Our very own Loz is participating in the exhibition this year.
Opening night is 5:30pm on the 19th of July
at Little Tokyo Tattoo Studio
MORE INFORMATION HERE