Tattoo Talk: Electronic Pop Artist LEATHERS Talks Tats

The hard work and growth that Shannon Hemmett has put into LEATHERS is quite apparent on the new album Ultraviolet. Just released earlier this month via Artoffact Records, the album comprises ten new songs, including the previously released single “Divine.” The album is a combination of the influence of many eras of electronic music. You can hear new wave, alternative, and modern electronica elements within this batch of songs. Ultraviolet is the follow-up to her Reckless EP, which created quite a buzz. A cult following formed surrounding the EP, and it became Artoffact’s top-selling EP of their 20-year history.

Ultraviolet represents something much bigger than just a new LEATHERS record. Hemmett got involved in all aspects of the production of this record. She wrote and recorded them but also made her own music videos, got involved with creating promotional photography, and developed a visual motif for the album. The whole aesthetic is self-created, and she has found it satisfying to do it all herself. It has worked out splendidly for her, as she has loved film and photography since a young age. Being able to immerse herself in all forms of her art has enabled Hemmett to really grow as an artist.

Speaking of artistry, Hemmett is quite an enthusiast regarding tattoos. She joins us today for Tattoo Talk to discuss her tattoos, her favourite style of tattoos, and more.

What was the first tattoo you ever got/gave?

Shannon Hemmet: “I tattooed an Einstürzende Neubauten symbol on my friend and mentor Chris. To be able to transfer an image to skin felt like magic, it was a life-changing experience. I loved it and knew immediately I wanted to pursue tattooing. I saw him recently and many many years later, it still looks solid; a clean silhouette with deep blacks. 10/10!”

What style of tattoo do you feel closest to? What drew you to it?

“The American traditional style will always be the GOAT to me. It’s a fun style to tattoo, and it heals well with good longevity. The classic signs and symbols like roses, skulls, hearts etc, paired with bold lines, and colour just make for iconic tattoos that last a lifetime.”

Is there a tattoo you’ve received or given recently that is a personal favourite?

“I recently designed a Twin Peaks tattoo which shows the hand of Agent Dale Cooper holding the Blue Rose. I love the show, so it was super cool to be able to create a piece that was a tribute to the Twin Peaks universe.”

How would you describe your personal artistic style?

“My background is in graphic design, branding in particular. So I definitely see the influence of Warhol-esque pop art in my work. Distilling an idea or image down to its most simplified lines and boldest colours is a pretty satisfying task for me.”

What’s your greatest passion besides tattoos?

“Music, definitely. I sing and write for my own band LEATHERS, and play synth and sing in ACTORS. Tattooing allows me the flexibility to tour regularly with my bands, and then tattoo full-time when I’m home.”

Do you have any new tattoos planned or underway?

“Most of my body is tattooed; I’ve nearly run out of space, so I don’t get tattooed much these days. As I’ve gotten older, I don’t tolerate the pain as well either. I’m a wimp now (laughs)! I’d love to get tattooed by Heather Bailey in Los Angeles though, a lot of her work is inspired by dark sub-cultures; like goth music, witchcraft, and leather/bondage. I’m saving a spot for her.”

Have you seen any fans with a band tattoo, Is anything crazy memorable?

“I’ve tattooed our band logos on a couple of fans over the years. I designed both myself—I think it’s pretty rare to have the band logo designer also be the tattooer. So it’s definitely special to be able to offer that to our fans who want a lifelong connection to the band(s) and our music. The heart tattoo with ‘Awake/Alive’ is a reference to ACTORS lyrics.”

Where do you feel the biggest tech advances are coming from in tattooing? Say, compared to ten or even 20 years ago.

“I love the second skin bandages available now! Those absorbent butcher pads were the worst. Disposable tubes were a game-changer too, and it’s great that a lot of brands carry eco-conscious materials now so we’re not putting more plastic into landfills.”

LEATHERS ‘Ultraviolet’ album artwork