A style of tattooing called "black and gray realism" has its roots in East Los Angeles' Chicano culture. It moved from penal institutions, to the barrios, to high-end tattoo shops around the world.

A popular style of tattooing called "black and gray realism" has its roots in East LA's Chicano culture. It moved from California prisons in the 1970s to high-end tattoo shops worldwide.

This detailed black and grey tattoo showcases a rose on the side of the neck, symbolising beauty, strength, and resilience. The intricate shading adds depth, bringing the petals to life.

His work, along with other examples of the black-and-gray style, is on view at the Natural History Museum as part of the traveling “Tattoo” exhibition that opened Sunday.

A popular style of tattooing called "black and gray realism" has its roots in East LA's Chicano culture. It moved from California prisons in the 1970s to high-end tattoo shops worldwide.

The author has, however, covered many tattoos on her left arm, including a gray-and-black rose design. Kat Von D attends a Marijuana Policy Project event on May 14, 2007. Paul Redmond/Getty Images ...