Posted on: January 30th, 2009 Philip Spearman: Changing the Face of Koren Tattoos
“Tattoos have traditionally been somewhat of a taboo in Asian culture,” writes Mikey Fresh. “In Japan and China tattoos were originally were used to mark criminals and gang members. Not too far away, in the nearby country of Korea, tattoos were used and viewed in a similar nature.”
That’s where Philip Spearman comes in. Half Black and half Koren, Spearman struggled to find his own identity for some time before finding an outlet through art. Tattoo art to be precise. “I’m starting to find my own niche in bringing Korean art to the forefront with tattoos,” states Spearman.
The ink speaks for itself: Spearman knows his way around a tattoo needle and has no problems sharing his tricks of the trade with any willing ear or mind. “The tattoo artist who has been recognized all over the world for his original and ground-breaking tattoo art remains grounded about his status as pioneer in modern Korean art tattoos,” Mikey Fresh continues.
Learn more on an artist changing the way people approach tattoo art and breaking down barriers, one tattoo at a time.
Entire feature with more photos here.
