Life & Work
The Art of Alex Gordon
Alex Gordon was born in America but relocated to London around 1914, where he established himself as one of the most prolific and talented flash painters working in Britain during the early 20th century. His designs moved through the trade at remarkable speed, appearing in the collections of George Burchett, Hartley, Knight, and Dusty Rhodes.
His work turned up as far afield as Cecil Rhodes Tattoo parlor in Grimsby. His specialty was the decorative figure: snake dancers, fan dancers, and veiled women executed with genuine elegance and a sense of movement that few flash artists ever achieved.
Research has since confirmed that a significant body of work long attributed to others originated from Gordon’s hand. His influence on British tattooing was greater than the historical record previously suggested, and the Lift Trucks Art collection helps document the full reach of what he produced.
The dancer series alone would be enough. Gordon produced dozens of sheets.
Location
American born; relocated to London c. 1914
Known For
Prolific flash painter; designs used by Burchett, Hartley, Knight and Dusty Rhodes; decorative dancer series
Flash Art · Original Works
Original Flash Sheets
Tattoo Flash Art Project
Explore the Full Collection
Original flash sheets from over two dozen artists who built American tattooing. Part of the Lift Trucks Art collection in Croton Falls, New York.