In a world teeming with visual languages, the ancient symbols of the Balkans stand as a testament to the resilience and identity of a people forged through centuries of survival and reinvention.

The Marks of Protection photographic campaign is a celebration of this rich cultural heritage, brought to life through the transformative power of tattoo artistry and body painting.

Our journey began in 2021, in the midst of a global pandemic that tested the fortitude of even the most resilient nations. In Montenegro, a country that was both the last to be touched by the virus and the first to rid itself of it, I found a reflection of the same indomitable spirit that drove the villagers of the 15th century to tattoo their children with symbols of protection against kidnapping and trafficking by the superstitious invading Ottoman forces. These ancient Illyric designs, with their cosmological patterns of suns, moons, and geometric shapes, had been largely forgotten by the modern world—until now.

In collaboration with photographer and paraplegic activist Miko Djuričić we embarked on a mission to resurrect these symbols through three distinct campaigns, each reflecting a different facet of the Balkan spirit.

Marks Of Protection I

The first campaign was born in the wild uncertainty of the pandemic. It featured five hand-painted models in feral, untamed styles, emerging from the woods like warriors of old. The hair and make-up was raw and unrefined, with bold looks and graffiti backgrounds that captured the chaotic energy of a world in flux.

Marks Of Protection II

By contrast, the next iteration two years later offered a vision of feral sophistication. Set against the backdrop of Jetty One in Porto Montenegro, where super yachts anchor in opulence, we dressed our models in striking black and white, their bodies adorned with the large, expressive geometric symbols of Balkan tattoo design. With statement pieces by Naeem Khan, known for dressing icons like Michelle Obama, the shoot combined high fashion with ancient symbolism, creating a visual narrative that was both powerful and poetic.

Marks Of Protection III

The final installment reflects a maturation of both the concept and the culture it represents. This time, we turned the lens on a single model, a woman in command. Dressed in elegant black, her tattoos are subtle, delicate, and modern—tiny cultural tokens that echo the understated chic of today’s professional women. With her protective dog by her side, the imagery speaks to a refined strength and cooperation with nature, a quiet resilience that has carried the Balkan people through centuries of hardship

The resurgence of Balkan tattoo designs, or “sicanje,” now widely recognized and celebrated across the internet, speaks to the power of these ancient symbols to connect a diaspora and revive a sense of identity. Through Marks of Protection, we have not only showcased the beauty of these designs but also honored the enduring spirit of the Balkans—a spirit that continues to inspire and protect its people, no matter where in the world they may be.

In 2022, Marks Of Protection established a significant partnership with the UK charity Medaille Trust to address the profound issue of human trafficking through the art of tattooing. This collaboration aims to raise awareness and provide support for survivors by offering them a chance to reclaim their bodies and narratives. By connecting skilled tattoo artists with individuals who have experienced the devastating effects of modern human trafficking, this initiative seeks to cover identifiable marks that symbolize trauma and suffering.

Recognized by the United Nations, this effort emphasizes the therapeutic potential of tattooing as a form of empowerment and healing. Participants in the program are given the opportunity to work with compassionate artists who understand the importance of sensitivity and respect in this intimate process. The tattoos not only serve as a form of scar coverage but also act as a celebration of resilience and a new chapter in the lives of survivors.

Marks Of Protection and Medaille Trust's mission shines a light on the intersection of art and social justice, encouraging a dialogue about the realities of human trafficking while providing a platform for healing through creativity. This initiative not only fosters collaboration within the tattoo community but also invites society to recognize and support the importance of this work in helping survivors reclaim autonomy over their bodies and identities.

Courtesy of Exclusive Magazine, Summer 2024