Intricate Postage Stamp Tattoos by Ash Aurich Are an Ode to Art History

As the saying goes, if one knows very little about something, their knowledge could fit on the back of a postage stamp. But for tattoo artist Ash Aurich, the minuscule format provides a readymade canvas and frame ripe for experimentation, intrigue, and beauty.

Using a fine line technique with delicate shading, Aurich outlines the unmistakable scalloped edges of the ubiquitous, tiny adhesives, filling rectangular compositions with Renaissance-inspired romantic and religious figures.

a photograph of two postage stamp-shaped tattoos on a forearm, containing compositional details of a man and woman reaching out of the stamps' frames toward one another

A deep appreciation for iconic artworks inspired Aurich to create tiny odes to art history. “I wanted to be able to capture the essence of these masterpieces in a unique and engaging way,” she tells Colossal. “Having the opportunity to tattoo these designs on others who appreciate art is a rewarding experience.”

Aurich’s preferred subject matter is people, especially the dramatic and often symbolic figures in art historical masterworks by the likes of Johannes Vermeer or Caravaggio. “The attention to detail, use of light and shadow, and mastery of human anatomy create stunning, lifelike representations that translate beautifully into tattoos,” the artist says. She shares that it’s important for the emotions and narratives of each portrait to resonate with the wearer, especially at their small scale.

Currently in residency at Atelier Eva, Aurich has opened her books for March and April in New York City. The tattoos seen here are all flash designs, but she creates custom compositions, too. See more on Instagram.

a photograph of a postage stamp-shaped tattoo on a shoulder, containing a compositional detail of the top half of a religion female icon's face
a photograph of a postage stamp-shaped tattoo on a forearm, containing a compositional detail of a detail of a woman's face with a fly on her nose
a photograph of a postage stamp-shaped tattoo on the inside of an upper arm, containing a compositional detail of a detail of Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'
a photograph of a postage stamp-shaped tattoo on a forearm, containing a compositional detail of three-quarters of a woman's face
a photograph of a postage stamp-shaped tattoo on an upper arm, containing a compositional detail of two white doves
a photograph of a postage stamp-shaped tattoo on a forearm, containing a compositional detail of a muscular back of a male figure evocative of Caravaggio
a photograph of a postage stamp-shaped tattoo on a forearm, containing a compositional detail of a religious woman's face

Do stories and artists like this matter to you? Become a Colossal Member today and support independent arts publishing for as little as $7 per month. The article Intricate Postage Stamp Tattoos by Ash Aurich Are an Ode to Art History appeared first on Colossal.

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