Hello Speakeasy family! I recently learned about the art technique called chiaroscuro, which is the technique of producing extreme contrast between light and shadow in a painting. It is an art term that was coined in the 15th-century Renaissance period. Chiaroscuro is a method in visual arts that uses strong contrast between light and dark to achieve a sense of volume and three-dimensionality. Going beyond technical jargon, this is a great way to create a deep emotional connection with the audience.
The most well-known artist who spearheaded this technique was Michelangelo Merisi Da Caravaggio. He is renowned for his raw and brutal style. My personal favorite is "The Medusa Head". It perfectly exemplifies the Chiaroscuro philosophy. Her head is severed and held up in the foreground. Medusa's face, riddled with complete anguish, is staring back at you. The contrast between light and shadow in this painting intensifies the emotion in her gaze. The shadows deepen the horror, emphasizing the macabre nature of Greek Mythology. Her head teetered on the razor's edge of illumination and darkness, much like good and evil. It's hard to decide whether you feel sorry for or happy about her demise.
Even after all this time, chiaroscuro is still used in art and film to build suspense and enhance symbolism in storytelling. Chiaroscuro is more than just a play of light and dark; it's about the relationship between them, akin to the philosophy of yin and yang. It creates a dramatic, striking theatrical effect that keeps the audience engaged and connected to the art. Like in paintings, chiaroscuro in tattoos can evoke strong emotions and create a captivating visual impact. The contrast between light and shadow can intensify the symbolism and storytelling in tattoos, making them more than just images on skin but powerful works of art. It's fascinating to see how art techniques like chiaroscuro have transcended traditional mediums and found a new home in the world of tattoos. This demonstrates the enduring influence and versatility of artistic techniques throughout history.
See you next Sunday!
Xx Sunny
Good Afternoon, Speakeasy Fam. It’s pretty likely that if you’re here at this blog, reading this post, you have a particular fondness for tattoos.  I know how you feel! I am now entering my third month as the resident apprentice at Speakeasy Tattoo LA. As a result, this program makes me wonder how people entered this industry in the past or how it was formed. This brings me to the person I will discuss today, Maud Wickham.
Maud Stevens Wickham was a trailblazer in the tattooing world and is often considered to be the first American female tattoo artist. She was born in 1871 and initially pursued a career in art before transitioning to tattooing. Wickham was trained as an artist and had a background in painting and illustration, which gave her the skills necessary for tattooing. While specific details about her training are scarce, it’s believed that she may have apprenticed under a male tattoo artist, which was a common route for aspiring tattoo artists, even though it was rare for women.
Around 1907, she opened her own tattoo parlor in New York City, becoming one of the first women to do so. Her unique designs and approach helped her build a clientele. Wickham’s decision to pursue tattooing was also a statement against societal norms regarding women’s roles. She set an example for other women by succeeding in a male-dominated space. Her journey reflects her passion for art and her determination to forge a new path, making her a significant figure in the history of tattooing. Understanding tattoo history is important in knowing where we came from, how we got here, and where we are heading.
Thanks for reading and being a part of this journey with me. I’m excited to share more with you next Sunday, so stay tuned!
Sunny
Updated: Oct 6, 2024
Hello, speakeasy Los Angeles fam! Today, I would like to talk about a personal interest of mine and how I feel it relates to tattoos in a way. That would be tarot cards! A creative way to interpret one's journey. Tarot cards were originally an Italian card game called "tarocchi," only played by the nobility in the mid-15th century. By the late 18th century, tarot transitioned into a tool for divination, influenced by mystics like Antoine Court de Gébelin, who connected it to ancient wisdom. There are countless variations of tarot decks, but the most common theme is The Rider-Waite-Smith deck, illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith.
The 78 cards are divided into two categories of: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana cards represent significant life events and spiritual lessons, while the Minor Arcana cards delve into the intricacies of daily life. Her deck popularized the practice of spiritual exploration. Over time, The Rider-Waite deck has been used and adapted for many practices. Becoming a prominent tool for self-reflection and personal growth. The intricate imagery found in tarot cards allows for a wide range of artistic interpretations. Tattoo artists are often requested to bring these esoteric symbols to life on the skin, resulting in unique designs that reflect the client's connection to the Arcana. Tarot cards and Tattoos share an alluring fusion of creative inspiration and personal narrative that makes for endless interpretations of art and beauty.
At the end of the day, the interpretation of tarot cards is all up to the individual. This open-ended nature encourages personal exploration and understanding, making them a powerful tool for self-reflection and spiritual growth.
Until next Sunday!
Sunny