The body is their canvas as hairy-backed men turn their fur into art

The body is their canvas as hairy-backed men turn their fur into art - People will call anything art these days.

It now appears to be as simple as being cursed - or blessed? - with a mound of thick, dark and unsightly back hair and shaving a pattern into it.

Less permanent than a tattoo and now proving to be just as popular, hairy back art, or HBA, is said to have started becoming a trend in Europe and is now catching on at this side of the Atlantic.

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Previously, men would simply cover up their back fur - or better still - hot foot it down to a waxist and get that carpet stripped right off.

But now, never fear hairy-backed men, your body is your canvas.

Can't afford your favourite team's jersey? No problem, just shave your player's number and name into your back and hey presto - ready-made fan memorabilia.

And you don't even have to resort to using a razor to get the desired effect.

All one hairy Van Gogh lover needed was a bar of soap and some water and he had his own Starry Starry Night.

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Some people are lucky enough to not only be born with a hairy back but for that hair to only grow in some places rather than others - so no need for any type of 'manscaping'. It's like mother nature is your stylist.

Half finished: This man was fortunate enough to have natural back art on only one shoulder

Want to make a statement at a festival or concert? Why not make it on your back? It saves carrying a cumbersome flag or banner around.

Revellers' attention is sure to be drawn to your Chewbacca-like appearance from behind, so why not get that political statement across, and you might even make a few supporters in the process.

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HBA artist Shaveen Derriere, 25, told Yarp News: 'The back is a great canvas. And we artists can create beautiful masterpieces. My work is very spiritual. I like to think that they are crop circles for the soul.

'HBA has become the trendiest look for today’s modern man. And it is much cheaper than shaving.' ( dailymail.co.uk )