Photos are a unique art form; they represent a visual moment in time while doubling as tunnels that connect the captured image to the beholder in a way that transcends time, space, religion, race, color, or creed. In the same vein, tattoos can be considered even more intriguing, as the commitment is a much more painful and personal process followed by immediate permanency. Tattoos are the gateway to one’s soul and as each piece showcases triumph, tribulations, and sometimes tragedy, it also reflects an in-depth philosophy and world perspective on anything such as relationships with one’s better half or tales of one’s neighborhood. Bound By Ink is proud to connect these two spiritual art forms in a way that attempts to do justice to the visual majesty, and regardless of how you interpret the photos or the tattoos, they are much like dreams in the simple fact that they act as windows to the soul. Each photograph in this issue tells a unique tale, connecting with our readers on different levels of consciousness; whether you appreciate these images for their sheer artistry or their mystical composition, the artwork here shares no common ground — aside from the fact that they’re all printed on paper. With that said, we’ve compiled some of the best photos we’ve orchestrated and assembled a limited edition look book which further promotes the unadulterated vivaciousness of tattoo culture. With a visual history comes a clearer future.

In closing we’d also like to send out a special thanks to Andy Hartmark for his creative and compositional prowess when it comes to photography. To say that a picture speaks a thousand words is truly an understatement when it comes to his work, but in the same breath he’s the creative power that separates a snapshot from a photograph. Much respect and admiration goes out to Andy from our entire staff.

Respectfully,
John Jarasa