Airbnb Design — Talks featuring tattoo artist David Allen

Our next Airbnb Design — Talk features David Allen, a Chicago-based tattoo artist. He believes the process of co-creating a tattoo with clients is more important than the physical marks he leaves on their bodies.

A designer-turned-tattoo artist and painter, David has developed a reputation—and a waitlist—for his elaborate, delicately shaded creations. But what truly distinguishes his work is his philosophy around client partnership and how it guides his craft. He sees himself as a conduit for their deeply personal stories.

For nearly a decade, David has applied his artistry to hundreds of women who’ve undergone mastectomies, transforming their breasts and scar tissue with intricate botanical images. His work has won him recognition in the Chicago Tribune, NPR, Newsweek, and the Verge. He also wrote about the healing role of his artistry in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

David’s imagery is just one source of empowerment for his clients. He spends hours learning their stories before ever picking up a needle. That process, he says, is just as important as the artwork.

Join us for an intimate conversation with David about the unintended marks we leave on our communities during the creative process.

Details:

Check in begins: 5:45pm
Light fare and drinks: 6:00-6:30pm
Talk commences: 6:30pm

We believe in including all voices, so please contact us (designtalks@airbnb.com) if you have any accessibility needs. We’ll do our best to accommodate requests and make you feel at home in our space.
For information about future Airbnb Design events, visit Airbnb.Design.