Our biggest challenges often pave the way for our greatest triumphs. But it’s only when we look back upon these times that it becomes apparent. When we’re in the middle of it all it can be very difficult to get a clear perspective.

So as 2020 draws to a close I hope that someday we can look back at this year and see some of the benefits behind the struggles. It’s been a year that allowed me personally to spend more time with my family than I would have ever thought possible. Time spent outdoors, making dens with my daughters. Walks through the countryside seeing the seasons pass by.

This year permitted me time away from tattooing, where I got to indulge in other creative outlets that are often left on the backburner. Investing this time in painting and drawing I was challenged in ways completely different from that of tattooing. Forced to find new avenues of artistic expression. To explore further from the path I know how to tread.

As a result, I have increased my understanding of design and developed more ways to capture the intangible emotions of every piece I create.  There is always a desire for my tattoos to carry a strong and striking aesthetic, but this is not hard to achieve with such heavy and extensive blackwork. The real skill is being able to maintain this element whilst creating a design of depth. One that contains layers of understanding and experience.

It’s in these years of experience that allows one to walk the knife-edge of complexity and simplicity. Ink and skin. Yes or no. So during 2020 when tattooing and world at large ground to a halt, I sharpened my pencil, broke out the ballpoint pen and covered canvas with paint.

Exploring these various mediums allowed me to continue to grow and evolve. Keep adding to my experience and developing my craft. Not spending the time I had, but investing it back into my art.

I finished the year with my 4th annual tattoo giveaway, which went to Naomi. She gave me the freedom to push myself and the design into a new area. By avoiding the more obvious, but equally striking solution of symmetry, we opted for a balanced but different design. One of asymmetry.

Looking at this tattoo I can see the direct effect my artwork away from the skin has had. It was during this time away from tattooing that gave me space to contemplate my craft. 2020 wasn’t the year I wanted, nor the one I expected. But it’s the one we all got, so I’m finding positives and being grateful for them. Getting ready to carry these lessons forward into 2021.

I’m wishing you a happy new year.

All the best, H