By Wendy Pham Australian tattoo artist and cover star of The Identity Issue
Wendy Pham’s book debut, published by Clandestine Republic, holds an impressive collection of never before seen illustrations. The assortment of mini prints take you on a Ramen-fuelled journey, elevating the everyday noodle to new mystical and mythical heights. Animals, people and creatures come together to take delight in the simplistic sustenance of Ramen. It will come as no surprise to you that this is Wendy’s favourite food, a subject that not only influences her artwork but the tattoos she creates too. The humble noodle is made sexy with half-dressed, lavishly-displayed Geishas, and none of the other characters within the book are able to resist this glorious feast. I found myself hankering for a steaming bowl of noodle broth as I turn the pages and discover more intriguing illustrations.
If you’re a fan of her vibrant Japanese-inspired tattoos you will adore her book filled with hamster explorers and sneaky noodle stealing foxes. The vibrancy of the illustrations, printed on high quality round edged paper, will leave you in two minds as to whether to frame each piece or leave the integrity of the book intact.
Both Illustrations from Kingdom of Wenramen