From a private studio in Seoul in South Korea, tattoo artist Pisatché (@pisatche) creates incredibly detailed, cute and futuristic tattoos. We spoke to the tattooist about his craft, influences and future plans…
How long have you been tattooing? And what first made you fall in love with tattoos?
I started tattooing in November 2018 – so it’s been almost six years! I can’t believe it. I’ve been interested in painting ever since I was very little. Naturally, it led me to study design.
I first encountered tattoos when I was much older. I can’t forget the shock I felt at the time. It was then I realised my paintings could last forever on someone else’s body! After that, I studied and started learning about all about them.
What made you want to become a tattoo artist?
Tattoos were so attractive to me as they’re a way for my painting to live on forever on other people’s bodies. How incredible is that? Also, it is a super-interesting job that provides various stories, both from clients and other artists. I love listening and telling. This career has its own unique charms. I think that’s why I like tattoos and tattooing.
How do you like to work with customers? Is it mostly custom work or flash too?
Well, recently, I started making flash designs for customers to choose for themselves. But before, I have always collaborated with them to make the designs. I like both methods.
Do you have tattoos yourself – can you tell us about them? How do they make you feel?
Of course, I have about four tattoos. I did one on myself for the first time when I was learning how to tattoo. I also did a self-tattoo whenever I needed to research a new tattoo skill. I haven’t done this for a while, in fact it’s been more than five years since I got a tattoo.
I would recommend tattooing yourself to other tattoo artists. I found it really helpful especially when I had concerns about my tattooing skills. I also understand the pain that customers are feeling.
What was the first tattoo you did on someone else?
The first tattoo I did on someone else was on my best friend. It was some lettering. He trusted me and gave me a chance. But the tattoo wasn’t perfect and I’ve been expressing my infinite gratitude to him ever since.
How would you describe your style?
I always wonder how to explain my tattoo style. I think it’s just my own style. I am inspired by Japanese animation from the 1980s. The Japanese animation and films back then were detailed and beautiful. There was a lot of capital and labour invested in it and it brought huge economic growth. I’m always inspired by the art of that time. Especially Akira, it’s the best film.
What else inspires you and do you have any artists you admire?
I’m always inspired by animations and cartoons. And these days, I look up a lot of vintage posters. There are a lot of things to see and things to feel especially when it comes to the colours used in those days. My favourite artist is Katsuhiro Otomo.
How can clients book in with you?
I use Instagram messages and email. I plan to make a website later on as well.
Do you have any guest spots planned? Where would you most like to travel to?
Right now, I want to go to Australia. My favourite studio is the Eastcoast Social Club in Brooklyn, New York. There are many talented artists there who inspire me.
Tell us about what it’s like to tattoo in Seoul?
There are still restrictions, but it’s not bad. My personal hope is that more customers will visit me. I like Seoul, mainly because I have my family and friends here. Everywhere can’t be better than here because of that.
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
Being able to give my parents and my girlfriends good gifts. These moments are when I am most proud and happy. It helped me show them how important they are to me. Also that I plan to be with my girlfriend forever. I’ve worked hard to do this.
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