When it comes to unique and captivating tattoos, few can rival the collection adorning the body of British actor Joseph Gilgun. Known for his roles in popular television series like Misfits, This Is England '86, and Preacher, Gilgun has become an icon in the entertainment industry. But it's his extensive and diverse tattoo collection that has truly left an indelible mark on fans and enthusiasts alike.
In this blog post, we will delve into Joseph Gilgun's tattoo journey, exploring the meanings behind his iconic ink and the stories they tell. From dark and mysterious designs to playful and whimsical creations, Gilgun's tattoos offer a fascinating glimpse into his personality and the characters he brings to life on screen.
1. The Haunting Eye
One of the most striking and instantly recognizable tattoos on Gilgun's body is the haunting eye that graces his right arm. This intricate and detailed tattoo features a piercing gaze, surrounded by intricate patterns and symbols. The eye, with its intense expression, seems to follow you wherever you go, leaving a lasting impression.
The meaning behind this tattoo is deeply personal to Gilgun. He has spoken about how the eye represents his battle with mental health issues, particularly his struggles with anxiety and depression. It serves as a constant reminder of his inner demons and the strength it takes to face them head-on. The intricate patterns surrounding the eye may also hold symbolic significance, perhaps representing the complexities of the human mind.
2. The Playful Rabbit
Contrasting the dark and intense nature of the eye tattoo, Gilgun also sports a playful and lighthearted tattoo of a rabbit on his left arm. This tattoo depicts a mischievous rabbit with a mischievous grin, seemingly up to no good. The rabbit's eyes are wide and curious, adding to its charming and innocent appeal.
Gilgun has often expressed his love for animals, and this tattoo is a testament to that. The rabbit may represent his playful and adventurous spirit, embracing life with a sense of curiosity and spontaneity. It adds a touch of whimsy to his tattoo collection, balancing out the more intense and thought-provoking pieces.
3. The Mysterious Skull
Another prominent tattoo on Gilgun's body is the mysterious skull that adorns his chest. This tattoo features a detailed and lifelike skull, with intricate crossbones and floral patterns surrounding it. The skull's eyes are closed, giving it an air of serenity and peace.
Skull tattoos often symbolize mortality and the fragility of life, serving as a reminder to live each day to the fullest. For Gilgun, this tattoo may represent his awareness of the transient nature of existence and the importance of making the most of every moment. The floral patterns surrounding the skull could symbolize the beauty and resilience of life, even in the face of death.
4. The Colorful Bird
Perched on Gilgun's right shoulder is a vibrant and colorful bird tattoo. This tattoo depicts a bird in flight, with its wings spread wide and a rainbow of colors adorning its feathers. The bird's eyes are vibrant and full of life, capturing the essence of freedom and adventure.
Bird tattoos are often associated with freedom, spirituality, and the ability to soar to new heights. For Gilgun, this tattoo may represent his desire for freedom and the pursuit of his passions. The vibrant colors could symbolize the joy and vibrancy he brings to his work and life, while the bird in flight embodies his journey as an actor and the characters he brings to life.
5. The Quotable Words
Gilgun's tattoo collection also includes several quotes and phrases that hold personal significance. One such tattoo is the quote "You don't have to live like you're dying" on his right forearm. This powerful phrase serves as a reminder to embrace life and make the most of every moment, rather than living in fear or constantly anticipating the worst.
Another notable quote tattoo is "You're beautiful, but you're not the world's most beautiful person" on his left forearm. This quote, taken from a song by The Housemartins, speaks to Gilgun's humility and his belief in the importance of self-acceptance and not getting caught up in superficial beauty standards.
6. The Mythical Creature
Among Gilgun's tattoos, a mythical creature takes center stage on his back. This intricate tattoo depicts a fierce and powerful creature, with a serpentine body and a dragon-like head. The creature's eyes are piercing, and its wings are spread wide, creating a sense of movement and power.
Mythical creatures often symbolize strength, power, and the unknown. For Gilgun, this tattoo may represent his inner strength and the power he draws from his imagination and creativity. The serpentine body could also symbolize transformation and the ability to shed old skin and embrace new beginnings.
7. The Personalized Portrait
Gilgun's tattoo collection also includes a personalized portrait of his beloved grandmother, Maggie, on his left shoulder. This tattoo is a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother, who played a significant role in his life and career. The portrait captures her loving expression and the warmth she brought to Gilgun's life.
Tattoos honoring loved ones are a beautiful way to keep their memory alive and carry their presence with you always. For Gilgun, this tattoo serves as a constant reminder of his grandmother's love and support, inspiring him to pursue his passions and make her proud.
8. The Abstract Art
On Gilgun's right leg, an abstract and surreal tattoo captures the essence of his creative mind. This tattoo features a blend of geometric shapes, lines, and vibrant colors, creating a unique and captivating design. The abstract nature of this tattoo allows for personal interpretation, leaving room for the viewer's imagination to wander.
Abstract tattoos often represent the artist's inner world and their unique perspective on life. For Gilgun, this tattoo may symbolize his creative process and the freedom he finds in expressing himself through art. The vibrant colors and geometric shapes could represent the balance between his logical and emotional sides, creating a harmonious whole.
9. The Memorial Tattoo
Tattoos can also serve as powerful memorials, honoring those who have passed away. Gilgun has a memorial tattoo on his left leg, paying tribute to his friend and fellow actor, John Altman. The tattoo features a simple yet poignant design, with the words "Rest in Peace John Altman" accompanied by a peaceful scene.
Memorial tattoos are a way to keep the memory of loved ones alive and to honor their legacy. For Gilgun, this tattoo serves as a reminder of the impact his friend had on his life and the industry, ensuring that his memory lives on through the art they both loved.
10. The Inspirational Quote
To round off his tattoo collection, Gilgun has an inspirational quote tattooed on his right wrist. The quote, "Love is a serious mental disease," is a powerful reminder of the impact love can have on our lives and the transformative power it holds.
Inspirational quotes are a popular choice for tattoos, as they serve as daily reminders of our values and aspirations. For Gilgun, this quote may represent his belief in the power of love and its ability to shape and change us, both for better and for worse.
Conclusion
Joseph Gilgun's tattoo collection is a captivating and diverse array of designs, each telling a unique story and holding personal significance. From haunting eyes to playful rabbits, mythical creatures to memorial tributes, his tattoos showcase his creativity, humility, and the depth of his character. As an actor, Gilgun brings these tattoos to life, infusing his characters with the same passion and intensity that his tattoos embody.
Whether it's the intense gaze of the eye tattoo or the whimsical grin of the rabbit, Gilgun's tattoos leave a lasting impression, much like the characters he portrays on screen. His tattoo journey is a testament to the power of self-expression and the ability to use art as a form of therapy and a means of connecting with others. So, the next time you see Joseph Gilgun on screen, take a moment to appreciate the ink that has become an integral part of his identity and the characters he brings to life.
What inspired Joseph Gilgun to get his first tattoo?
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Gilgun’s first tattoo was inspired by his love for the movie The Crow and the character Eric Draven, played by Brandon Lee. The tattoo is a tribute to the film and its impact on him.
Does Joseph Gilgun have any matching tattoos with his friends or co-stars?
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Yes, Gilgun has matching tattoos with his Preacher co-stars, Dominic Cooper and Ruth Negga. They all got tattoos of the word “Saint” to commemorate their time working together on the show.
What is the most meaningful tattoo for Joseph Gilgun?
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While all his tattoos hold significance, the personalized portrait of his grandmother, Maggie, is likely the most meaningful. It serves as a permanent tribute to her love and support, keeping her memory alive.
How does Joseph Gilgun maintain and care for his tattoos?
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Gilgun takes great care of his tattoos, ensuring they remain vibrant and clear. He regularly moisturizes his skin to prevent dryness and uses high-quality tattoo aftercare products to maintain their appearance.
Are there any future tattoo plans for Joseph Gilgun?
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Gilgun has expressed interest in getting more tattoos in the future, especially as his roles and life experiences continue to inspire new ideas. He is always open to adding to his collection and exploring new artistic expressions.
