Off Skin

Yes, we read it in history books the Medicis propelled the Renaissance by commissioning young artists of their time, many of whom are now the household names we see in museums. Starting a cultural movement might seem like something reserved for textbooks or the ultra-rich, like the Medicis. But what if you could do the same today - by commissioning a tattoo? What if the art you choose to wear on your skin became part of a living, breathing collection - a walking museum of stories, identity, and expression?

Commissioning a tattoo is not so different from commissioning fine art. The canvas may be skin instead of linen, but the process of dialogue, vision, and creation is the same. And yet, tattooing rarely shares the same stage as works created in traditional mediums. Despite its deep history - from prehistoric markings to ceremonial and cultural practices across civilisations tattoo art is still sidelined in mainstream art history. What if we dismantled that divide?

Powered by Lee Gardens Association, The Ward proudly presents OFF SKIN, an exhibition celebrating the artistry and culture of tattoo in Hong Kong. Bringing together works on canvas, paper, and other traditional media alongside original tattoo flashes, the show highlights both sides of 23 tattoo artists known primarily for working on skin. From ink paintings inspired by Irezumi to contemporary pieces rooted in blackwork, OFF SKIN reveals tattoo artists as visual storytellers with rich, diverse practices. Here, the lines between "high" and "low" art blur - all we're celebrating is great art, whether it lives on a wall or walks down the street.

OFF SKIN runs from 13 June to 6 July at 5 Sharp Street East, Causeway Bay.