David Bowie’s Widow Iman Unveils New ‘Blackstar’ Tattoo on 10th Death Anniversary

Iman honors David Bowie’s legacy with a striking Blackstar tattoo on the 10th anniversary of his passing.

Remembering Bowie: A Decade Later

It’s hard to believe it’s been ten years since the world lost the legendary David Bowie. On January 10, 2016, Bowie slipped away quietly after an 18-month private battle with cancer, a shock to fans everywhere since his illness had been kept under wraps. Even more poignant was the timing — his final and stunning album Blackstar had dropped just two days before. The album, a masterpiece, still echoes through the music world, a haunting farewell from an icon.

Iman’s New Tattoo: A Lasting Tribute

To commemorate this emotional milestone, Bowie’s widow, Iman, shared a deeply personal tribute: a new tattoo inspired by the Blackstar album cover. The tattoo is a sleek, minimalist series of five black shapes that run down her forearm — abstract runes that spell out ‘BOWIE.’ This design is drawn directly from the album’s artwork, crafted by Bowie’s longtime collaborator Jonathan Barnbrook.

Iman displays her new Blackstar-inspired tattoo, a heartfelt homage to Bowie.

On Instagram, Iman expressed the profound emotions behind the ink:

“Jan. 10th. The pain didn’t vanish.. It left in its place a loving permanent mark. #BowieForever.”

Seeing this tattoo feels like a private, yet public, moment of love and remembrance, a reminder that while Bowie is gone, his influence and spirit remain permanently etched — literally and figuratively.

The Symbolism Behind the Blackstar Design

Jonathan Barnbrook, who worked closely with Bowie on all his album art from 2002’s Heathen onward, once described the Blackstar symbol as more than just a logo. In 2016, he said:

“The Blackstar symbol, rather than writing ‘Blackstar’, has a sort of finality, a darkness, a simplicity, which is a representation of the music.”

The tattoo captures that same blend of mystery and elegance — a subtle yet powerful emblem that perfectly encapsulates Bowie’s final artistic expression.

Family Tributes on Bowie’s Birthday

The anniversary of Bowie’s passing isn’t the only occasion Iman marked with tenderness. Just days before, on what would have been Bowie’s 79th birthday, she shared a touching black-and-white photo of the two together, captioning it:

“A million feeling, A thousand thoughts, A hundred memories…YOU! Happy Heavenly Birthday.”

Bowie’s daughter, Lexi, joined in remembrance with her own heartfelt post, sharing a childhood photo with her dad and the note:

“Da big 79 today. Happy birthday pops, miss ya!”

These intimate glimpses into Bowie’s family life remind us that behind the glam and stardom was a man deeply loved by those closest to him.

Honoring Bowie’s Legacy: Events and Documentaries

The influence Bowie left behind continues to inspire celebration and reflection. Later this month, the British Library will host an event titled David Bowie In Time, featuring appearances by Jonathan Barnbrook, producer Tony Visconti, and artist Jehnny Beth. This gathering promises to offer fans and scholars alike a rich exploration of Bowie’s enduring cultural impact.

Meanwhile, fans can also look forward to new documentaries that delve into Bowie’s life and final years: the Channel 4 special The Final Act and the upcoming BBC project Bowie In Berlin, set for release in 2026.

Preserving History: Bowie’s Childhood Home Restoration

In an exciting development for Bowie enthusiasts, his childhood home in Bromley, South London, is slated for restoration and will soon open to the public. This historic space offers fans a unique chance to connect even more closely with Bowie’s roots and early inspirations.

As we reflect on the decade since Bowie’s passing, Iman’s tattoo stands as a beautiful symbol of enduring love and artistry. It’s both a personal memorial and a beacon for fans who continue to celebrate Bowie’s one-of-a-kind legacy.

FAQ

• What does Iman’s new tattoo symbolize?
  It features five minimalist black shapes from the Blackstar album cover that abstractly spell out ‘BOWIE,’ honoring David Bowie’s final artistic chapter.
• Who designed the original Blackstar album artwork?
  Jonathan Barnbrook, Bowie’s longtime collaborator, crafted the album’s enigmatic and symbolic design.
• When did David Bowie pass away?
  Bowie died on January 10, 2016, after privately battling cancer for 18 months.
• Are there any events planned to celebrate Bowie’s legacy?
  Yes, the British Library will host David Bowie In Time on January 17, featuring key collaborators and artists honoring his impact.
• Is Bowie’s childhood home accessible to fans?
  His childhood residence in Bromley is being restored and will be open to the public soon, providing a personal glimpse into his early life.

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