William Pulley, also known as the Snake Tattoo Guy, was a resident of London, Ont., who became instantly recognizable three decades ago due to his intense commitment to ink. He proudly displayed over 4,000 tattoos etched on his skin, making him a walking art gallery. The CBC’s Dan Bjarnason introduced him to viewers on The National on April 5, 1990, acknowledging his high recognition factor.
A Commitment to Ink
What started as a desire to cover up scars from a motorcycle accident soon turned into an addiction for Pulley. He found solace and expression through tattoos and continued to get more and more. Each tattoo told a story and added to his unique identity.
Challenging Society’s Norms
Pulley’s story gained national attention when he was banned from a local mall. While he believed the ban was a result of his artwork, the mall claimed it was due to his behavior. According to the mall owners, Pulley was spending an excessive amount of time in the mall and bothering customers.
Pulley saw this as an infringement on his freedom. He questioned whether society would start targeting individuals based on their appearance, such as those with beards, long hair, or even warts on their face. He believed that as a free country, everyone should be able to express themselves without fear of discrimination.
The Battle in Court
Unfortunately, Pulley’s fight to challenge the ban did not end in his favor. A month after his profile aired on The National, he was convicted of trespassing in a provincial offences court and fined $78.75. Although Pulley intended to appeal the fine, it is unclear whether the appeal ever materialized.
London lawyer Gord Cudmore noted that Pulley was ahead of his time with his extensive tattoo collection. Over the years, tattoos have become more widely accepted, and what was once seen as unconventional has now become a popular and respected form of self-expression.
A Story that Captivated Many
Pulley’s unique story reached beyond Canada’s borders, captivating international media. United Press International and the Weekly News of the World covered his story, and he even made an appearance on Phil Donahue’s talk show. Additionally, he had the opportunity to appear in a music video for the Canadian band Helix, further cementing his place in popular culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many tattoos did William Pulley have?
A: William Pulley had over 4,000 tattoos.
Q: What was the reason behind the ban on William Pulley from the local mall?
A: While Pulley believed it was due to his artwork, the mall claimed it was because of his behavior and excessive presence in the mall.
Q: Was William Pulley successful in his appeal against the trespassing fine?
A: It is unclear whether the appeal against the fine emerged or not.
Conclusion
William Pulley, also known as the Snake Tattoo Guy, was a trailblazer in the world of tattoo artistry. Despite facing challenges and controversy, he remained true to his passion for self-expression through ink. His story showcased the evolving acceptance of tattoos in society. Today, tattoos are celebrated as a unique and personal form of art. If you’re interested in exploring the world of tattoos and tattoo numbing creams, visit TKTX Numbing Cream Store for a wide selection of high-quality numbing creams to enhance your tattooing experience.
