Iman Honors David Bowie with a Beautiful Tribute
A decade after the passing of her husband, David Bowie, Iman has found a way to keep his memory vividly alive through her art. On January 10, the 70-year-old supermodel shared a touching post on Instagram showcasing her new tattoo—a poignant reminder of her everlasting love.
A Meaningful Tattoo
The tattoo features five-star symbols from Bowie’s final album, “Blackstar,” released just days before his passing in January 2016. Not only does this tattoo symbolize a personal connection to Bowie, but it also spells out his name—a beautiful tribute to the man who captured the world’s imagination through his music and persona. Iman captioned her post, “The pain didn’t vanish .. it left in its place a loving permanent mark,” alongside the heartfelt hashtag, “#BowieForever.” To accompany the emotional reveal, she chose to play Bowie’s haunting 1977 track, “Subterraneans,” adding another layer of depth to her tribute.
The Legacy of David Bowie
David Bowie left an indelible mark on both the music industry and his loved ones. He passed away at the age of 69 following an 18-month private battle with cancer, a struggle that he managed to keep largely out of the public eye. Known for groundbreaking works and eclectic musical styles, Bowie’s final album, “Blackstar,” holds a special significance, as it was both a farewell and a celebration of his artistic legacy. His death was announced with a somber statement on social media that resonated deeply with fans worldwide, emphasizing the family’s need for privacy during their time of grief.
A Love that Endures
The love story between Bowie and Iman began in 1990, thanks to a mutual friend who set them up on a blind date. Their connection blossomed quickly; they married two years later and welcomed their daughter, Alexandria Zahara Jones, in 2000.
Five years after Bowie’s death, Iman expressed that she feels no distance in her heart from him, stating in an interview with People that she considers herself still married. “I still feel married,” she shared. “Through my memory, my love lives.” This unwavering devotion exemplifies the depth of their bond, which transcends even the boundaries of life and death.
A Birthday Remembrance
Iman further showcased her love on what would have been Bowie’s 79th birthday, sharing a nostalgic black-and-white photograph of him. Her heartfelt message read, “Happy Heavenly Birthday. Your light burns so bright in all our hearts! We love and miss you #BowieForever.” Such tributes are not just celebrations of a life well-lived but also affirmations of enduring love that knows no bounds.
David Bowie’s Advocacy for Diversity
Bowie’s influence extended far beyond music. He was a vocal advocate for diversity in the industry, famously challenging MTV in 1983 over its lack of representation for Black artists. In an interview, he passionately questioned why few Black musicians were prominently featured on the network. His candid remarks sparked crucial conversations about racial equity in media and music. Bowie highlighted the need for more integrated representation, a sentiment that would eventually resonate in the music landscape with the explosive success of artists like Michael Jackson.
The Continuing Impact of His Art
Bowie’s legacy as a transformative figure in music and cultural discussions remains significant today. His artistry not only pushed the boundaries of genre and style but also championed the causes of underrepresented voices. As Iman continues to honor his memory through tattoos, posts, and heartfelt reflections, she keeps the spirit of Bowie alive, reminding the world that love, art, and advocacy can have profoundly lasting impacts.
Through her actions and his music, the legacy of David Bowie continues to inspire and resonate with fans and loved ones alike.