BY: JESSICA BEUKER
London-based photographer, Alan Powdrill is putting the spotlight on tattoos with his new photo series, “Covered.” The series captures each subject in two very different photos—one where they are fully clothed and one where they are completely naked, or close to, showing off the tattoos that have turned their bodies into walking, talking works of art.
Most of the subjects are tattooed from chin-to-toe. The photos are available on Powdrill’s website, but he will also be displaying the series at an event in London on November 11. The event will feature drinks, food, and even free tattoos.
The photo subjects range in age, race, gender and body type—breaking down the idea that only certain types of people get inked. Subjects spoke a little about when they got their first tattoos and how they feel about them now. Nobody showed any remorse, and most have continued to get tattoos as they age, finally putting to rest the tired question: “Won’t you regret that when you’re old?”
“I love the fact I’m middle aged, have a professional job, am surrounded by straight people and I have ‘No Fucking Way’ tattooed on my chest” – Bill, 59
“My tattoos are part of who I am and I’ll always love my bodysuit now and when I’m 80. The love I get for what I look like is what it’s all about” – Victoria, 37
“Me mum wasn’t happy at all about the swallow on my hand so I said ‘Look mum it’s not like I’m on the street doing heroin’” – Alex, 49
“I started in 1963 when I was 14 and I don’t think I’ll ever stop” – Dave, 66
“What’s the point of worrying about the next 10-30 years, I might not be here by then so enjoy the now” – Gareth, 37
“If I ever forget who I am I take my clothes off and look in the mirror and find out who I am again” – Chris, 25
“I’m loving how they change as my body gets older and the creases and wrinkles change how they look. When I’ve got no space below my neck I’ll stop” – Ness, 40
“They’re an expression of my journey through life, as my body ages they take on a different appearance, ask me in 30 years how I feel” – Matthew, 48
Image sources: alanpowdrill.com
