Leo Mortem stands out as a rising star in Vancouver’s tattoo and visual art scene. With a background in Earth Science from SFU, her artistic journey took a captivating turn when she transitioned from nine years of visual art in her home studio to tattooing at a private studio in Chinatown. Her distinctive “Leo Tattoo” style, characterized by intricate etching techniques, directly translates her unique visual art onto skin.
Drawing profound inspiration from the natural world, scientific illustrations, whimsical fairy tales, and the rich detail of illuminated medieval manuscripts, Leo’s artistic influences are diverse and deeply rooted. Artists like Albrecht Dürer and Gustave Doré resonate in her work, informing her aesthetic perspective. Her “leo tattoo” designs explore powerful themes of suffering, transformation, and decay, viewing them as catalysts for change and renewal. This exploration results in an alchemical blend of medieval symbology and organic forms. Whimsical yet with a contemporary edge, her creations often incorporate religious, celestial, and occult undertones. For Leo, the act of creating art is akin to a form of magic, imbuing each “leo tattoo” with a sense of enchantment.
A client showcases their healed etching style tattoo by Leo Mortem, highlighting the intricate detail and lasting artistry.
Leo’s fascination with the textures and forms of plants, and the inherent patterns within nature, drives her to spend tranquil moments outdoors. These excursions are crucial for gathering inspiration and collecting natural specimens for both her art and her personal herbarium. Rather than focusing on grand landscapes, she is drawn to the often-overlooked minute details that nature offers. This keen eye for detail is evident in the precision and intricacy of her “leo tattoo” designs.
Beyond tattooing, visual art, and her herbarium, Leo’s passions extend to the culinary arts and music composition, particularly for the piano. These diverse interests enrich her artistic sensibility and contribute to the multifaceted nature of her “leo tattoo” creations.
Leo Mortem's home studio is a creative sanctuary, adorned with finished art pieces that reflect her unique style and inspirations.
In a brief Q&A, Leo shares more about her life and work:
Location of Creative Hubs:
“I create ‘leo tattoo’ art at a private studio nestled in Chinatown. My visual art takes shape in my home studio on Burnaby Mountain, a location that blesses me with access to a stunning forest. Living so close to the inlet is wonderful; I especially cherish moments by the ocean, particularly when it rains.”
Artistic Focus:
“I am dedicated to the craft of ‘leo tattoo’ artistry, specializing in blackwork etching style. As a visual artist, I favor mixed media, primarily ink and graphite, drawn to the tactile experience of etching on paper. My private herbarium, filled with wildflowers, wild grasses, seaweed, and moss specimens, serves as a vital reference for my detailed work.”
Leo Mortem immersed in her studio environment, surrounded by tools and inspirations that fuel her distinctive tattoo art.
Current Projects:
“My artistic energy is often spread across multiple projects. I am constantly developing new flash art for ‘leo tattoo’ enthusiasts, alongside collaborating closely with clients on custom pieces, which occupy a significant portion of my time. In quieter moments, I enjoy crafting whimsical booklets and exploring ideas in my sketchbook. Currently, I’m also immersed in a series of larger graphite works depicting medieval demons and biblical angels, intended to be presented in sculpted frames.”
Sketchbooks and ongoing art projects showcase Leo Mortem's diverse artistic explorations and meticulous approach to her craft.
Discover More:
To explore the captivating world of “leo tattoo” and visual art further, you can find Leo Mortem’s work on Instagram. Discover the magic and detail of her unique artistic vision and perhaps find inspiration for your own “leo tattoo” journey.
Leo Mortem expertly applying an etching style tattoo, demonstrating her skill and dedication to her craft in the studio.
A curated view of Leo Mortem's gallery wall, offering a glimpse into the breadth and depth of her artistic portfolio and inspirations.
Leo Mortem thoughtfully gathers natural samples, reflecting her deep connection to nature and its influence on her distinctive tattoo and art creations.
