The master photographer Dianne Mansfield’s “Eye of the Beholder” has been released in hardback format by Raking Light Projects. Mansfield has documented the tattoo community for over four decades in a raw and compelling manner, capturing the reality of a tattooer’s life and work. From photos of Pacific Islanders to images taken at major conventions, it is clear how far the art form has progressed in garnering large worldwide audiences. Mansfield has committed her career to portraying exceptional moments of human experiences, such as the striking portraits of luminaries Paul Rogers and Felix Leu (and son Filip).

A book suited for all collectors, artists, and tattoo admirers, this 175-page black-and-white photographic display is comparable to visiting an art museum or gallery. The publication may have benefitted from more written content about Dianne Mansfield; this may be a sign for me to interview her in the future. Mansfield is regarded as a premier tattoo photographer (detailing history), as Richard Todd (magazine editorial imagery), Masuto Sudo (Japanese artistic captures), and other pioneers who paved the way for future generations. I have personally expressed thanks to her for what she has done. As if Mansfield were passing the torch, her reaction to me was, “your turn.”

Photos © Dianne Mansfield