Shawn Barber is an American artist who is celebrated for his painted portraits of tattooed people. His paintings are unusual and eye-catching. Flesh tones and dripping paint add a sensual feeling while colorful details in the form of tattoos add visual interest and aesthetic appeal. Some of Barber’s paintings have aspects that are reminiscent of art works created during the futurist movement. If you take a look at Giacomo Balla’s Dynamism of a Dog on a Leash (1912), you’ll see that the artist painted the dog in several poses in the same place. This gives the impression that the dog is staying still, yet moving his legs rapidly. Barber has used this technique to create a similar sense of movement, though this animation is more ethereal and alluring than the comical nature of Balla’s Dynamism.
Shawn Barber worked on the periphery of tattoo culture for several years, documenting the art of tattoos in his paintings. Several years ago he finally decided to try his hand at tattooing and picked up a tattoo machine. His tattoos are of an exceptionally high quality. This is due to Shawn Barber’s work ethic, one that is based on integrity, determination and professionalism. Visit Shawn Barber’s website to see more tattoo portraits and to read more about his views on living a successful life. If you’d like to see his tattoo art, take a look at Painter Shawn Barber turns into a Tattoo Artist on RattaTattoo.com
