AWAY FROM cities and crowds, filmmaker and tattoo fanatic Lily Lu has built a sanctuary in the German countryside for herself and her family in order to live "on the edge of society". Covered in tattoos and piercings from head to toe, the former tattoo artist says she only has "one tattoo". "Most of the symbols on me, they represent something," Lily Lu said. Six years ago, Lily Lu embarked on another journey of self-exploration - she decided to start her transitioning. She said: "It becomes a very fascinating journey because you learn so much about yourself." People online have always commented on Lily Lu's unique appearance, accusing her of being a bad parent because of the way she looked. But to Lily Lu, these comments are a mere reflection of those who are afraid of being themselves. "The more I tried to understand the normal world, the less I understood it," Lily Lu added. "Like it's all about you have a good job, you make good money, you have a fancy car, you have a big house," Lily Lu added. "I may look like I'm playing a character when I go out in the world, but we all do. Everybody plays a character in the game of society. But most people just want to be a good game, so they try to dress like this and behave like this. But I'm not sure if they're happier."

Follow Lily Lu: @lily_lu_filmz

Photo courtesy of Janine Küffer: @janinekufferphotography