This Artist Creates Gender Bending Pin-Ups

For decades, we’ve seen tattooers design full body pin-ups. From the OGs like Sailor Jerry and Ed Hardy to modern masters like David Corden, pin-ups have been part of the tattoo lexicon for generations and will continue to inspire artists for years to come. However, never before has an artist flipped the switch and made male pin-ups their specialty.

Meet Jamie August, a Melbourne based tattooer who is better known as Big Boy Pinups. For the past several years he’s created stunning, quirky and humorous male pin-up tattoos and is having a great time doing it. From classics like hula girls and cowgirls to contemporary pop culture interpretations, this artist can turn any classic beauty into a beefcake fantasy.

What inspired you to start drawing male pinups?

It started as a joke. Looking through old flash you usually just see women. I figured let’s objectify some dudes you know, even it out a bit.

What are some of your favorite pinups that you’ve tattooed?

It’s hard to pick one in particular. I really like flipping traditional imagery and making it a little camp or drawing anything food related. I’m also super into anything horror.

What would you like to tattoo that you haven’t yet?

Well I already did my dream Big Boy, the oily, buff sax guy in the beginning of “The Lost Boys.” It’s fun to see what people come up with and get excited about.

Do you have more male or female clients?

It’s actually pretty mixed. Male, female and people beyond the binary. All pretty great people. I mean if you want a sassy male pin-up on you permanently, let’s hang out.