In the lively epicentre of London’s Soho, there’s a piercing studio where the artistry extends far beyond mere piercings, creating an unforgettable atmosphere — a sanctuary of self-expression, a haven for creativity, and a beacon of the community…. Welcome to Metal Morphosis, where a dynamic father-and-son duo, Matthew and Ben, lead the charge. Together, they infuse the brand with a spirit of creativity and community, inspiring their team to push boundaries and celebrate individuality.
I had the privilege of sitting down with Ben for a heart-to-heart about the business and delving into what truly drives him.
At Metal Morphosis (MM), family is not just a word — it is at the core of everything they do. Founded by Ben’s father, Matthew, and grandfather, Ivan, MM has always been a labour of love for the family. Together, they built a business that values craftsmanship, creativity, and connection. For Ben, working alongside his father is not just about business but continuing a legacy, honouring the past, and shaping the future. Ben, along with his wife and children, Jagger and Lila Tiggy, embodies the essence of family both at home and in the workplace.Â
Ben’s entrepreneurial journey pulsates with the same energy and passion that infuses the company’s creative vision. From his days as a professional barefoot water skier representing Great Britain to his pivotal role as a driving force behind MM, Ben has consistently propelled himself forward, fuelled by an insatiable desire to push boundaries and realise his ambitions. His spirit and unwavering passion for adrenaline-fueled pursuits have driven his mission to cultivate a space where individuals can express themselves authentically and without reservation.
“…I’m a bit of an adrenaline junkie”, expresses Ben, “I love the thrill, running a business is very stressful but the thrill of it, is what makes me tick… I love the hype, working towards something and then unleashing it into the world”. This dedication has played a pivotal role in shaping Metal Morphosis into the vibrant and dynamic community it represents today.
Metal Morphosis once proudly held a prime concession spot in the iconic Topshop on Oxford Street, a symbol of its thriving presence in the heart of London’s fashion scene. However, when Topshop faced closure amid the Covid-19 pandemic, the studio bid farewell to this prestigious space. Yet, amidst the shifting tides, Ben saw the closure as an opportunity to return to its roots in the vibrant neighbourhood of Soho. As one door closes, another swings wide open; while departing from the Topshop concession must have felt daunting, it sparked a brilliant flame of inspiration for Ben.
“We had a significant presence in Topshop, which was fantastic for visibility but came with a downside. We became known solely as Topshop’s piercing shop rather than Metal Morphosis. Our identity got lost in the concession environment. While the exposure was beneficial, many people only associated us with piercings amidst the shoes. That wasn’t a sustainable business model. So, it prompted me to rethink and revitalise our brand,“ explains Ben.
It was a golden opportunity to reignite the brand’s essence and identity and rekindle its presence in the very place where it all started, an exhilarating chance to rediscover its unique identity and spirit within the ever-evolving realms of retail and customer service. Now, with vibrant locations in Soho and Hackney, Metal Morphosis is ready to soar to even greater heights. The future is bright, and it’s poised to continue leading the way in the piercing industry.
With his acute sense of trends and savvy use of social media, Ben has transformed Metal Morphosis into a must-visit destination for clients of all backgrounds and identities. From celebrities like Millie Bobby Brown, Naomi Campbell, and Keith Flint to everyday individuals from all walks of life, MM focuses on welcoming everyone from all different countries, backgrounds, and cultural communities. At Metal Morphosis, they understand that piercings aren’t just about adorning the body—they are about reclaiming ownership of one’s identity and expressing oneself in the truest form. For members of the LGBTQ+ community, piercings may serve as a symbol of pride and defiance, a way to boldly assert their true selves in a world that often seeks to silence them. Similarly, for women who choose to wear hijabs, piercings offer a means of self-expression that transcends cultural boundaries and challenges stereotypes. Far from being a sign of rebellion, piercings become a profoundly personal statement of individuality and empowerment, allowing women to reclaim agency over their bodies and defy societal expectations.
“In our community, the Middle East, especially places like Dubai and Kuwait, remains largely untapped. During the summer, we see a surge of Arab women flocking to MetalMorphosis; they often fly in with their husbands, making a trip solely to visit us. It’s not uncommon for them to leave with ten new pieces. Piercing opens a gateway to a unique underworld, connecting us to various subcultures within the community”, elaborates Ben, emphasising the intriguing cultural dynamics and global reach of MetalMorphosis.
In a society, that often imposes rigid standards of beauty and conformity, MM provides a safe space where people can explore their identities freely and without judgment. Whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a woman in a hijab, or anyone else seeking to express themselves, Metal Morphosis welcomes you with open arms.
Piercing opens a gateway to a unique underworld, connecting us to various subcultures within the community
For Ben, MM is more than just a business—it is a testament to his family’s legacy and a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. As the brand thrives and grows, Ben remains committed to honouring the past while embracing the future, ensuring that MetalMorphosis remains a beacon of creativity, community, and connection for future generations.
Continue reading for a spoiler that is worth the spoil…
Metal Morphosis is bringing the dawn of a new era of love, creativity, and excitement to its doors with the upcoming opening of its store in Seven Dials, “Seven Dials is just cool, you know? A lot is happening there; from all these amazing brands to the bustling food market… it’s exactly where we envisioned our next move. It vibes with our brand. We’re all about that quirky, edgy vibe, and Seven Dials has that in spades. Plus, being so close to Covent Garden? It’s perfect,” Ben gushes; his excitement is palpable as he describes the allure of their newest location. This expansion isn’t just about physical growth — it’s a celebration of the boundless love and passion that Metal Morphosis has nurtured within its community.
Alongside unveiling their new store, they are introducing a new service: flash tattoos. These creations aren’t just about ink on the skin — they are about continuing to break boundaries and unlock a world of possibility and expression where every design tells a story. Every line is a declaration of individuality.
As Metal Morphosis continues to spread its wings and soar to new heights, Ben’s commitment to family, creativity, and community remains as steadfast as ever. Each location and service is a testament to his family’s unwavering belief in the transformative power of self-expression and the joy of connecting with others.
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And to you, dear reader let me share a personal note: I believe in authenticity. It’s important to emphasise that my endorsement of any brand comes from a place of genuine experience. In the case of Metal Morphosis, this comes from first-hand experience. I decided to add a new ear piercing (rook) to my collection. What struck me immediately was the warmth and camaraderie among the team members, creating an atmosphere that felt more like hanging out with friends than a typical piercing appointment. From the cheerful greetings to the shared laughter, every moment was infused with genuine connection. It wasn’t just about the piercing; it was about being welcomed into a close-knit community where everyone felt like family.
So, as they prepare to open their doors in Seven Dials, Metal Morphosis invites you to celebrate love, creativity, and the joy of being true to yourself. Whether you are a long time member of the Metal Morphosis family or a newcomer eager to explore, they cannot wait to welcome you with open arms and help you discover the magic of self-expression in all its glorious forms.
www.metalmorphosis.co.uk
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Words: Persephone Quarme