Philadelphia’s South Street is known for its eclectic vibe, and nestled right in the heart of it is Tattooed Mom, a bar that perfectly encapsulates the city’s artistic and unconventional spirit. Founded by Robert Perry, who traded in his art director role for the restaurant industry, Tattooed Mom has become more than just a bar; it’s a landmark, a community hub, and a living canvas showcasing diverse art. Stepping inside is an experience unlike any other, where the aroma of drinks mixes with the distinctive scent of adhesive from the countless stickers adorning every surface.
For those seeking a unique Philadelphia experience, Tattooed Mom offers a haven for artists, writers, and anyone looking for an alternative to the typical bar scene. Its reputation precedes it, even drawing in crowds from national events like the AWP writing conference, where it became an unofficial late-night gathering spot. The dimly lit, sticker-bombed walls and welcoming atmosphere provide a comforting backdrop for creative minds and weary travelers alike.
My own first encounter with Tattooed Mom was during a trip to Philadelphia for AWP. As someone new to the city, Tattooed Mom immediately felt like a welcoming space. Accompanied by fellow creatives T.K. Mills, sticker artist Stained Napkins, and photographer Ana Candelaria, the bar offered an immediate sense of belonging. After soaking in the visually stimulating environment while Napkins searched for a rare patch of sticker-free space, we ventured upstairs to the pool room, further exploring the bar’s multi-faceted appeal.
The name “Tattooed Mom” itself is derived from one of the bar’s original members, who, while not a biological mother, embodied a maternal spirit for the bar’s community. As founder Robert Perry explained, she was a “mom figure” to traveling bands and visitors, offering a nurturing and accepting presence. This ethos of warmth and grit remains central to Tattooed Mom’s identity, attracting a diverse and creative clientele from across Philadelphia and beyond.
Perry emphasizes the bar’s role in fostering artistic expression: “I’ve been able to get to know many, many different street artists and artists of all kinds who have come through and who have connected with the space in many different ways. It’s been an honor to offer the space to the community to do what they need to do, whether it be a fundraiser or a pop-up or a show.” Tattooed Mom regularly hosts comedy nights, poetry readings, live art sessions, and unique performance events, solidifying its status as a cultural playground.
Even internationally renowned street artists like The London Police have left their mark on Tattooed Mom’s walls during visits to Philadelphia. However, the beauty of Tattooed Mom lies in its accessibility. Art isn’t confined to famous names; much of the ever-evolving décor is contributed by local artists and patrons who feel inspired to add their personal touch to this collaborative canvas.
Beyond the ground floor’s immersive art experience, Tattooed Mom extends to a second floor featuring a playroom with a pool table, offering different spaces to engage. Perry describes the downstairs as intentionally “inviting and not intimidating, but still very us,” catering to the diverse crowd that South Street attracts. This area showcases more permanent and curated pieces, highlighting artists such as WRDSMTH and Steve “ESPO” Powers, adding layers to the bar’s artistic narrative.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for businesses, and Tattooed Mom was no exception. Perry reflects on this period: “The pandemic was a moment where the space was frozen in amber. I’d walk through and nothing changed for the longest, longest time. That was really strange and took some getting used to. On the flip side, it allowed us a chance to take a breath and maybe highlight things that are already here and continue to share.” This period of reflection reinforced Tattooed Mom’s commitment to its community and its unique identity.
In a world often obsessed with curated perfection, Tattooed Mom stands as a refreshing antidote, celebrating “the earnest messiness of imperfection.” It has played a significant role in popularizing sticker art and wheatpasting within Philadelphia’s public art landscape, even curating a sticker art exhibition at Philadelphia Airport. Looking ahead, Tattooed Mom continues to innovate with events like Thirsty Walls nights, inviting artists to freely contribute to its ever-evolving artistic tapestry.
As Perry aptly summarizes, “What you see is the creation of—not hundreds—thousands of different artists who have come through… People who are inspired by this space to maybe start and do their first sticker. Maybe start to do their first wheatpaste where they feel comfortable in here to not have to look over their shoulder.” Tattooed Mom Philadelphia is more than just a bar; it’s a testament to community, creativity, and the beauty found in embracing imperfection. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and art-filled Philadelphia experience.
