Ink illustrations: Symon Elvey has opened a Belgrave business that doubles as an art gallery and tattoo boutique. Picture: Steven Thorne
STEREOTYPICALLY speaking, one would assume fine art is associated with the more highbrow types and tattoo art with the 'grungy' or rebellious.
It might be rare for these cultures to cross paths, and rarer still for the art forms to intertwine.
Belgrave's Symon Elvey proudly straddles both camps and has combined his two passions.
"Whenever I had discussions with tattoo artists about fine art, they'd call me a wanker. And whenever I'd speak with fine artists about tattoo art, they'd call me a hoodlum," he says.
"I had to make a place that's a conduit for both."
The 40-year-old father of two and his wife Kath have opened Inklenation, a business in the heart of Belgrave that doubles as an art gallery and a tattoo parlour.
In the front section, local artists can exhibit their work for free, while out the back locals can be tattooed. While Mr Elvey says some people are confused when they arrive to be tattooed only to walk into an art gallery, they are impressed with what they see.
He says that after graduating with a bachelor of fine art and sculpture in 1996, he still harboured a strong ambition to work as a tattoo artist.
He says by incorporating fine artwork with tattoo art he hopes to rid the "tough guy mentality".
From this, Inklenation has already set up a strong female clientele base.
Mr Elvey refers to the "untapped potential" of artists in the Yarra Ranges, and likens the area to another flamboyant part of Melbourne.
"It's Brunswick with a better environment . . . we've got the hills vibe without the pretentious people."
Local artists are encouraged to apply to exhibit their work at Inklenation. Mr Elvey says exhibiting work is free, and they charge only a 30 per cent commission on sales.
For more information visit inklenationgallerytattoo.com