Stoney Knows How

Stoney Knows How is a fascinating 1981 documentary that brings viewers into the colourful world of tattoo artistry. Directed by Alan Govenar, this film delves deep into the life, art, and insights of Leonard "Stoney" St. Clair, a prominent figure in 20th century American tattoo culture. The film also features Don Ed Hardy, an influential contemporary in the tattoo community.

Hailing from a time when tattooing was largely stigmatized, "Stoney" St. Clair started tattooing around the age of 16. Born in 1912, he draws on his experiences of nearly seven decades in the tattoo business, providing an intimate look into an industry that often gets criticized, misrepresented, or romanticized.

With Greeneville, Ohio as the film’s primary setting, viewers are treated to a slice of rural-America during the early 80's. Here lies Stoney's tattoo parlour, which is not only his place of business, but also serves as a vibrant chronicle of his life. The walls are covered with myriad designs, ranging from traditional American, to naval, oriental, and even tribal tattoos — each telling a story and signifying a milestone in the evolution of tattoo artistry.

The documentary weaves a comprehensive narrative, fleshing out Stoney's rise to prominence and his tireless dedication to his craft. But this movie is not just about the art of tattooing. Equally significant are the snapshots of candid conversations that Stoney has with his customers — many of them veterans, bikers, and working-class folks. We witness, first-hand, the inherent intimacy of Stoney's work: the bond between the tattoo artist and their canvas.

Stoney, with his fatherly demeanor and colorful anecdotes, brings to life the human stories behind the ink. He speaks about tattooing as a means of self-expression, a statement of individuality, and at times, a form of healing or overcoming personal trauma. His quips and sagely advice serve as an unexpected but welcome comedic relief, the charm that Stoney brings permeates throughout the film.

Complementing the narrative is the insightful commentary from Don Ed Hardy, another figurehead in tattoo artistry. His perspective provides a counterpoint to Stoney's traditional views, demonstrating how the tattoo scene started to evolve and expand during the 80's. Hardy acknowledges Stoney's influence and discusses themes of rebellion, art, counterculture, and acceptance.

Notably, the film’s most captivating scenes are when we see Stoney's expertise at work. The process of applying a tattoo is thoroughly explained and visualized — from selecting a design, preparing the skin, to the use of the tattoo machine, and the application of pigments on skin. Observing Stoney's focus and precision in personifying his client's desires into lasting art forms is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Stoney Knows How also touches upon the health concerns related to tattooing. The film showcases Stoney’s dedication to maintaining sterilization and safety protocols, a reflection of his passion for his craft and his conscious responsibility towards the well-being of his clients.

The documentary concludes by offering a broader context, highlighting how societal perceptions of tattoos have changed. While Stoney represented an era where tattoos were the purview of shut-away subcultures, we see Hardy’s take on the newfound acceptance and mainstream appeal of tattoo art.

In essence, Stoney Knows How is a rich, kaleidoscopic look at the life and legacy of a tattooing titan. It provides a glimpse into a world where pain, resilience, storytelling, and artistry combine to create something deeply personal and enduringly meaningful. It’s not just a movie for tattoo aficionados; but anyone who appreciates the exploration of passion, art, and the raw human stories behind it. It stands as a tribute to a time and a tattoo artist, whose realness, charm, and talent made a significant impact on a misunderstood art form.