who, what, where, when, why…..
I have been working on a “DAY OUT WITH” series where I find interesting people on the street or through contacts and spend an afternoon with them in their own space and neighborhoods. Typically, these are people in the entertainment industry, so they definitely have a way about them. However, I rarely choose those with a particularly wild or outlandish style. I am attracted to people who seem perhaps introverted at first glance but after hanging out with them for a few hours, might let down their guard and show some of their creativity and personality.
I was sitting on a rooftop bar in Old Montreal last week and I happened to notice that the music was perfect, at least to me and the handful of people next to us who were all nodding approvingly as the DJ seamlessly moved through his tracks. An eclectic blend of old and new, it was a selection I might certainly have on my iPod but not necessarily all in one playlist. I finally turned to see the DJ who was a spectacular looking fellow. Spectacularly dressed, yes, but also with a vibrant personal style and many, many tatts…..I marched up and introduced myself, commented on his music and after a brief chat, asked if I might photograph him one day as part of the “DAY OUT WITH….” series.
His rather dramatic shaved and tattooed head, red uber-glasses, quill-adorned nose and hip-hop/goth hybrid appearance certainly belied his thoughtful, gentle nature. He agreed that I could photograph him and for the next hour or so, he came and chatted with Paul (my paramour) and I while we enjoyed the perfect, warm night.
Skwik E Kleen – printed on his cards – is a lovely man with a soulful if not strangely poetic view of the world. One who has had a tumultuous life and has somehow landed without a thud. I love his energy. He drops wildly prophetic and oft profane tidbits of wisdom – he talks of life and love and power and torment and beauty and music and all points in between.
We met again the following night, at his prompting, at Méchant Boeuf, where he instructed us to “talk to Perry and ask to be seated near the DJ.” Paul and I dutifully obliged and enjoyed another night (and side) of a very playful Skwik E Kleen. As we left, we confirmed our plans – Saturday was the day to do the shoot. We would meet at Sqwik E’s loft and then go with him to the Montreal Tattoo Art Festival…..it was superb: