Felix, Dare to Dream

The story of Felix Leu is one of defiance, creativity, and the search for freedom. A fascinating story of an existential journey – that of Felix Leu, artist, pioneer of modern tattooing, and patriarch of one of the most iconic and respected families on the international scene: the Leu Family, a bohemian clan that turned freedom and creativity into their way of life. Son of painter Eva Aeppli and assistant to Jean Tinguely, Felix grew up in Paris’s vibrant 1960s art world before embracing the revolutionary counterculture of the Beat Generation. In New York he met Loretta, his lifelong partner, and together they chose a nomadic path, raising four children while rejecting conformity and living with only time as their true wealth.Loretta’s voice guides us through their extraordinary journey: hardship, love, and an enduring commitment to artistic exploration. In the late 1970s, Felix discovered tattooing, first as a way to support their travels, then as a form of expression in which he became a pioneer, founding what would become the legendary Leu Family Iron. More than a film about tattooing, this is a meditation on independence, identity, and daring to remain true to one’s dreams. Please note: doors open at 7pm and there will be tattoo studio stalls and conversation in the bar before the screening starts at 7:30pm This screening is part of Doc’n’Roll Festival who we are honoured to partner with on three events this season!