Skulls by Filip Leu

The skull is a subject matter that boasts so many representations that it can be compared to the letter “A” of the western alphabet. Its symbolism takes on various forms in art, literature, religion, and across different cultures. The skull also has a specific role and identity in tattoo art. From Tibetan skulls to hooded reapers to dragon skeletons, this book contains almost every type of skull imaginable with over 300 unique and expressive ink-drawn sketches and tattoo designs, all done by the hand of master tattoo artist, Filip Leu. Leu’s explorations and interpretations of the skull (with extraordinary drawings of Tibetan and Asian skulls) reflect the recent renaissance in popular culture (from music to street fashion) of this iconic cultural symbol.

Filip Leu (b. 1967, Paris) is a third-generation artist and second- generation tattooer. Together with his parents he created “The Leu Family’s Family Iron Studio and Museum” in Lausanne, Switzerland in 1982. After travelling extensively as a child and living in Goa, he began tattooing full-time at the age of 15. In 2001, he co-founded the Art Fusion Experiment, a group presenting tattoo artists as fine artists. He has created collaborative painting performances in places such as the Palazzo Ducale, Genoa, the National Arts Club, N.Y.C., Alex Grey’s Microcosm Gallery, N.Y.C., and HR Giger Museum, Gruyère, Switzerland.