Tattooist trades needles for pencils to run online drawing classes

Mr James, who has worked at Skin Fantasy Tattoo for over a decade, has already held online classes on how to draw Homer Simpson, Batman, the Easter Bunny and, most recently, Harley Quinn.

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"The idea came from my wife, Amy, and because so many of our mates have children, we felt it would be a fun activity for them to take part in," he said.

"In addition, it gives parents a bit of a break from looking after their children, and we're trying to make this a weekly thing to suit everyone's routine."

Mr James has met a lot of people in his travels overseas, and a number of them have been tuning in to his classes with their children in tow.

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"I've had people from England, Philippines and the US tuning in with their children, many of whom I've never met before," he said.

"As a professional tattooist, you're able to take your trade anywhere in the world and with Skin Fantasy shut at the moment, it's been great to stay in touch with all my connections."

Mr James said creative outlets can play such a beneficial role in keeping the mind positively ticking during longer periods in isolation.

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"Creative pursuits work wonders for mental health and when you create something, it gives you a strong sense of achievement," he said.

For more information, follow Duane James Tattoo on Facebook.