Tattoos designed for Duluth Artist, Dick Rosvall

In 2004, Dick asked me to make these designs for him, which his friend and tattoo artist, Dave "Zapp" Zappia (Tatts by Zapp), used to create these tattoos.

Not far from the crossroads in Duluth - Lake Avenue and Superior Street - at the apex of Lake Superior, lies Andevärld (Swedish for "spirit world"). There you can find my friend, Dick Rosvall (a.k.a. "Hippie Dick"), one of the godfather's of Duluth's art and music underground. The concerts held in his basement are legendary. His living room doubles as an outsider art gallery and studio where the door is always open (if you come by after 1pm), and you're greeted with a genuine smile and a hug.

On nice days, Dick can be found perched on his front steps transforming pieces of wood, stone and bone (brought to him by globe-trotting friends) into intricately carved sculptures and jewelry. He is fond of using copper, and says his grandmother swore by copper bracelets to stave off arthritis and other ills. Stop by and ask, and he'll likely help you on the spot to make a copper bracelet of your own.

Dick is fond of my artwork, particularly Red Rabbit and my paintings of Baron Samedi. He has made several Red Rabbit sculptures, and a Baron Samedi statuette for me. My favorite of all is the "Red Rabbit Space Patrol" pendant series he created for himself, me, and friends Mavis, Andy, and PK. His series of goddess sculptures inspired me to paint The Recalcitrant Bride of Spring.

When in town, please stop by and visit Dick at his home-gallery-music-hall. Even now, Big Time Developers are descending upon our city, knocking down Old Duluth to install high-rise condos, and gleaming SoHo-style storefronts for the tourists. The spirit world needs your attention and support now more than ever...

There's no phone in Andevärld, but stop by to see Dick's latest creations, or write to him at:

Andevärld
16 North 2nd Avenue East
Duluth, Minnesota 55802