Darryl Gates talks Mental Health in this candid interview

Darryl Gates, the legendary old-school tattoo artist and proud owner of Diamond Jacks Tattoo Parlour, shares his insights on Mental Health during a candid interview I had the pleasure of conducting at his new parlour location, just north of Oxford Street.

It’s rather unfortunate that in today’s society, there is still a stigma surrounding mental health, which often prevents men from seeking the support they need. With International Men’s Day (Sunday 19th November) recently celebrated and it being Movember (the initiative that encourages men to grow moustaches throughout the month of November to spark conversations and raise funds for various mental health projects), there’s no better time to encourage men to open up and discuss their mental well-being.

“I would say Mental Health is paramount, with regards to living in or working in Soho… It’s full of fun, and you know, people pushing the boundaries.”
Darryl Gates, Tattoo artist

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After dedicating two decades of his life to Walker’s Court, alongside the late founder Dennis Cockell who later became his trusted business partner, Darryl made a bold decision to relocate to the more serene neighbourhood of Fitzrovia. This recent move has allowed him to escape the hustle and occasional chaotic atmosphere of Soho’s last remaining patch of debauchery. With more free time to do things that keep him grounded; tai chi, attend music gigs and reading, I definitely sensed an aura of calmness about him on my visit. Although the iconic neon tattoo sign may no longer be flashing, Darryl is still very much in business on his own terms, and exclusively by appointment only.

📍Diamond Jacks Tattoo Parlour (Downstairs) 74 Wells St, London W1T 3QQ | 020 7323 9980