Benjamin Wolbergs

Face: The Berlin Art Scene showcases the vibrant diversity of artistic expression in Berlin through the lens of photographer Dale Grant. Featuring 200 artists photographed in their studios, the book presents a compelling snapshot of the city’s creative landscape, capturing talents at various stages of their careers; from emerging artists embarking on their artistic journeys to seasoned professionals at the height of their success. This rich compilation not only highlights individual creativity but also celebrates Berlin as a pivotal hub for contemporary art. In addition to the visual narratives presented through Grant’s photographs, the accompanying quotes from artists provide invaluable insights into their personal struggles and artistic triumphs. Image credits: 9783735610171_1_ALESSAND RO RAUSCHMANN Dale Grant 2024 Photography 28x27 ©/courtesy of Dale Grant 9783735610171_3_CAROLINA DEL PILAR . STILL LIFE Dale Grant 2023 Photography 28x27 ©/courtesy of Dale Grant 9783735610171_4_JUSTINA LOS Dale Grant 2023 Photography 28x27 ©/courtesy of Dale Grant 9783735610171_5_RICHARD CRAWFORD Dale Grant 2023 Photography 28x27 ©/courtesy of Dale Grant 9783735610171_6_SANGHYE OK LEE. STILL LIFE Dale Grant 2024 Photography 28x27 ©/courtesy of Dale Grant

In recent years, having received a considerable boost by social media, a young and dynamic scene has emerged that is dedicated to what has become known as queer tattooing. This special community, which is growing steadily, has been born out of a desire to break with the hierarchies and patriarchal structures of traditional tattoo art. It aims to create safe, tolerant, and inclusive spaces where queer, nonbinary, and trans people can experiment away from the mainstream and develop their own individual styles and techniques. In their work, many tattoo artists break free from the destructive, heteronormative, and capitalist ideals of beauty, creating a visual language that subverts the long tradition of cultural appropriation which characterises the traditional tattoo scene. Their designs reveal a unique creative flair for queer iconography. This book is the first comprehensive introduction to this vibrant and diverse queer tattoo community. It presents 50 international tattoo artists with the help of extensive portraits, texts, and series of images.