Category: Interviews

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“Creating a backpiece is an extensive and deeply personal journey for both the client and myself,” interview with tattoo artist Francesco Ferrara

Known for his bold and expansive backpieces, we sat down to hear 29-year-old Francesco Ferrara’s story. Italian Francesco currently lives in California in the USA and is a resident artist at Gold Rush Tattoo (@Goldrushtattoo) in Costa Mesa.


I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the readers of Things & Ink and express my gratitude for this wonderful opportunity.

My journey into the world of tattooing began at a very young age. Before embarking on my career as a tattoo artist, I was first a client. At the age of 15, I received my first tattoo — a Japanese sleeve on my left arm. At the time, I had little knowledge about tattoos, but I was instantly captivated by the art form.

By the age of 16, I attempted my first tattoo on a friend in my garage using a machine that another friend had purchased. In those early years, I did not view tattooing with the same perspective I have today. However, I am deeply grateful to my younger self for taking that first step, as tattooing ultimately gave my life purpose and direction.

I also remain deeply grateful to the individuals who supported me at the start of my career— those who entrusted me with their skin when I was just 16. Many of them are still close friends, while others have naturally drifted from my life over time.

When I first entered the tattoo industry, I was young and unfamiliar with both the craft and the inner workings of a tattoo studio. My apprenticeship lasted over a year, during which my primary focus was observing, absorbing and understanding the daily operations of a professional studio. Throughout this time, I refrained from tattooing, aside from a few experimental pieces on close friends, for which I never accepted payment.

I firmly believe that a strong apprenticeship is the foundation of a skilled tattoo artist. With over a decade of experience, I can quickly discern whether an artist has undergone a proper apprenticeship or is self-taught – the difference is substantial and unmistakable.

One of the most memorable moments of my career was my first guest spot in London at Black Garden Tattoo. At just 21 years old, I didn’t speak a word of English, but I was eager to tattoo as many people as possible. That experience profoundly reinforced my passion for tattooing and the incredible opportunities it has provided for my personal and professional growth.


Over the years, I’ve refined my style through exposure to diverse artistic influences and collaborations with some of the most esteemed tattoo artists in the industry. Working in various locations has allowed me to learn, adapt and integrate different techniques into my craft. I like to believe that I’ve taken inspiration from each artist I have encountered and made it my own.

My tattooing style is a fusion of traditional European and American influences. I have always specialised in traditional tattooing, though my approach has evolved significantly over the years. While in Europe, I favoured thinner lines and a more muted, autumnal colour palette.

Upon moving to the US, I was heavily influenced by the American traditional scene, adopting bold lines, vibrant colours and solid shading techniques.


Personally, I have exclusively Traditional and Japanese tattoos on my body. The majority of my clientele seek large-scale projects such as backpieces, front pieces, and sleeves. Each large-scale design is custom-created in collaboration with the client, incorporating their input to ensure a meaningful and personalised outcome.

Additionally, I frequently work with flash pieces from my collection, as many clients are drawn to my artistic style rather than a specific design. However, I am always happy to create bespoke pieces upon request.

Creating a backpiece is an extensive and deeply personal journey for both the client and myself. The process typically spans approximately five sessions, each dedicated to a different stage: outlining, shading, and colouring.

When clients approach me to begin their backpiece, I always seek their input on the design. Understanding their vision and aspirations allows me to incorporate their ideas while infusing my own artistic perspective, ultimately crafting a piece that surpasses their expectations.

Many of my clients gravitate toward bold, vibrant designs, drawn to my signature style that features strong black contrasts and striking colour palettes. However, I also enjoy working in black and grey, adapting to each client’s preferences. To ensure optimal healing, I generally recommend spacing sessions three to four weeks apart.

For clients travelling from overseas, I accommodate their schedules by arranging consecutive sessions, reducing both travel expenses and logistical challenges. Each session typically lasts four to five hours, with short breaks to ensure the client’s comfort. Preparation is crucial, so I advise clients to get adequate rest, stay hydrated, and maintain a nutritious diet before their appointments.

The tattoo industry has changed significantly since I first started, but I am encouraged by the number of dedicated artists and passionate enthusiasts who continue to uphold the integrity of the craft. Many of my clients are between the ages of 18 and 25, and their appreciation for traditional and Japanese tattooing gives me hope for the future of the industry.

The tattoo scene in the US is remarkable, with an incredible community of talented artists. I deeply appreciate my clients here, as well as those in Europe, and I value the healthy competition that pushes us all to excel in our craft.

Unfortunately, there is also a great deal of misinformation surrounding tattooing, and some individuals portray a misleading or inauthentic version of the art form. I firmly believe that true artists who genuinely respect and preserve the craft will leave a lasting legacy, while those who exploit it without passion or dedication will ultimately fade away.

I consider myself fortunate to have clients who trust me and grant me creative freedom in my work. Looking ahead, one of my aspirations is to complete a full body suit on a client with either no tattoos or minimal existing work.

To the readers of Things & Ink, thank you for taking the time to read this article. I would like to offer a piece of advice to aspiring tattoo artists: Love tattooing wholeheartedly, as it will always give back to you — both the good and the bad. Work hard, as there are no shortcuts in this industry. If you lack genuine passion, then tattooing may not be the right path, as the world does not need more tattoo artists — it needs dedicated and skilled ones.

Francesco’s books are currently closed, reopening at the end of March for appointments between May and July 2026. Message him via DM on Instagram. He’s currently working on several projects that are still under wraps. His first book, Bruh Book, is out now. Make sure to follow Francesco Ferrara (@francesco__ferrara _) for more incredibly bold tattoos.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

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“It’s essential for the design to complement both the individual’s style and the area where it will be placed,” interview with tattoo artist Circe

Tattoo artist Circe (@Circe.Tattoo) believes that tattoos are constantly evolving and that clients are at the heart of that infinite evolution. She tattoos in her private studio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she feels inspired by the people she’s surrounded by. Here she tells us more about her beautiful blackwork style that looks like it’s from a bygone era…

What first drew you to tattoos? And what was your journey to becoming a tattoo artist?

As a child, I was fascinated by a type of chewing gum that featured temporary tattoos, which I would eagerly stick all over my arms. Drawing has always been a passion of mine, nurtured by my parents who were woodblock artists. We often spent our weekends in their atelier, immersed in creativity.

My desire to become a tattoo artist sparked during a family trip to Mexico when I unexpectedly reconnected with my uncle, who my parents hadn’t seen in 18 years. Our conversation revealed that I had two cousins who were tattoo artists in Europe. At that time, tattooing wasn’t the mainstream phenomenon it is today.

When I went back home, I dived into research about tattooing. Earning some extra cash by creating flyers for my friends’ band gigs allowed me to buy my first tattoo machines, and I started practicing on pumpkins in my room.

Do you have a memorable moment from your past when you fell in love with tattoos?

During my early days as an apprentice at the shop, I found myself captivated by the diverse range of people I encountered, each with their own unique stories. The mix of different backgrounds, experiences, and the rich tapestry of symbols and images, drew me in completely. I realised this was the place where I wanted to spend most of my time.

Your blackwork tattoos have an almost historical quality to them, really classic and beautiful, how did you hone that style?

I spend a lot of my time digging into references that I can translate into the art of tattooing, much like the old-school tattoo artists did before the internet took over. Whenever I travel, I make it a point to visit museums as part of my journey. I also enjoy collecting art books and try to seek inspiration from various sources, drawing from both art history and the images I encounter in posters or advertisements.

How do you like to work with customers on pieces? Is it usually flash or custom work? Or a bit of both?

I often start by showing my clients my collection of flash designs, explaining that these serve as a launching pad for our creativity. From there, we can explore ways to customise or mix different ideas, or simply examine my approach to tattooing.

I particularly enjoy creating custom pieces, as I believe it’s essential for the design to complement both the individual’s style and the area where it will be placed.

Where do you currently tattoo and what’s the tattoo scene like there?

I’m currently situated in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where I have my own private studio to work independently. The tattoo scene here in Buenos Aires is vibrant and thriving.

Buenos Aires is home to some fantastic tattoo artists who are truly passionate about their craft. It’s always a pleasure to engage in discussions and enjoy painting nights with them. The clients also play an active role in this creative process, bringing along intriguing references for their tattoos, which adds to the inspiration.

How do we book in with you? Will you be doing any guest spots this coming year?

If you’d like to book a session with me, feel free to reach out via email at circe.xyz@gmail.com. Additionally, you can follow my Instagram account @Circe.Tattoo to keep up with my future guest appearances!

Do you have any thoughts on the tattoo world itself? Its current state, what has come before and any hopes for the future of tattooing?

From my point of view, tattoos are constantly evolving and will continue to do so indefinitely. I believe they will never settle into a final form because they are like living entities, continually transforming from one generation to the next. Just as history unfolds in a spiral, always repeating itself but in different ways, tattoos will follow this same pattern.

A significant aspect of tattooing revolves around the decisions made by the clients who wear them; ultimately, they are the ones who have the final say.

What’s next for you?

I’m in the process of putting together my very first flash book. This will be my inaugural edition, and I’m excited to see it come together.

Is there any tattoo you haven’t created that you’d love to do?

I have plenty of ideas, but my time is limited when it comes to bringing them to life. I remind myself to be patient and to take things one step at a time. In the future, I’d like to incorporate some colour into my tattoos, but for now, I’m enjoying working with just black and occasionally adding a bit of grey.

You’ve got to follow Circe on Instagram for more tattoos and to book yours next one!

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

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“I’m often inspired by the unique ideas that my clients bring to the table,” interview with tattoo artist Nonlee

Her career in tattooing was sparked by an encounter that changed up her thinking. Here, tattoo artist Jungyeon Kim ( known as Nonlee / @non_lee_ink ) shares her story. And how she morphed her style into the incredible ethereal tattoos she creates today at Ziho Gallery in Seoul, South Korea. Grab yourself a cuppa and settle in for the journey.

What made you fall in love with tattoos?

Before becoming a tattoo artist, I spent nine years teaching students watercolour painting and pencil drawing. One day, a student came to my art class with a unique request: he wanted to learn basic drawing skills to pursue a career in tattooing. While I had personal experience with tattoos, I’d never considered becoming a tattoo artist myself.

This encounter sparked a new interest in me. Even though I found joy in teaching and seeing my students succeed, I always yearned to create art for myself. The pandemic, despite its challenges, provided me with the opportunity to explore new avenues.

Jungyeon Kim (Nonlee)

Your background is in art and teaching, what drew you to this in the first place?

I began teaching art out of necessity. Like many art students, I needed a part-time job to support my tuition and art supplies. Having graduated from an art high school, I had a strong foundation and was able to earn a higher hourly rate. Even after graduating from university, I continued teaching because I enjoyed the interaction with students and the work was a good fit for my outgoing personality.

With your teaching experience, would you ever consider having an apprentice?

I have prior experience teaching tattooing. I currently work with tattooist Ziho at Ziho Gallery in Seoul, Korea. We occasionally hold tattoo workshops. While Ziho primarily leads these workshops, I’ve assisted him and co-taught on several occasions.

Tell us more about the studio, what’s it like?

The studio houses a diverse group of artists, and I find it both beneficial and enjoyable to collaborate with individuals who share similar styles and genres.

How long have you been tattooing for?

I began my tattooing journey in March 2021 under the mentorship of renowned tattoo artist Ziho. I wanted to maximise my artistic potential and create a style that best showcased my abilities.

We love your tattoos, can you tell us about your own tattoo collection?

I have around 17 tattoos. While I cherish them all, three hold a special place in my heart. The most recent one, which has just healed, is florals from @sian_ttt. The second one is a beautifully recreated moth tattoo done by @n.o.u.v.e.a.u. And the third one was done by @oozy_tattoo, one of the artists who inspired me to start tattooing.

Tattoo by @sian_ttt
Tattoo by @n.o.u.v.e.a.u
Tattoo by @oozy_tattoo

Your work has a magical quality to it – ethereal and beautiful – how would you describe it?

My style is primarily based on hyperrealism but leans towards botanical illustration. The most distinctive feature of my tattoos is the use of vibrant and bold colours.

My background in fine art allows me to incorporate elements of oil painting and watercolour techniques into my tattoos, resulting in a unique style that sets me apart from traditional tattoo artists.

Have you always painted?

My undergraduate major was sculpture. However, I’ve also explored two-dimensional mediums such as painting and printmaking. While I’m currently focused on tattooing, my sculptural background has given me a strong foundation in three-dimensional form and light and shadow, which I believe enhances my tattoo designs.

Where does your inspiration come from?

Nature is my biggest source of inspiration. Everything in nature can be a subject for my tattoos. I often go bush walking, visit the beach to observe marine life, or simply explore my surroundings. I spend a lot of time photographing plants in my neighbourhood, especially during spring and summer.

How do you like to work with customers? Do you do mostly custom work or flash too?

I primarily create custom designs tailored to each individual client. I enjoy exploring new subject matter, and I’m often inspired by the unique ideas that my clients bring to the table. However, I also create flash designs, which allow me to explore my own personal interests.

What’s next for you? How would you like your work and style to progress?

I’m interested in gradually transitioning to larger-scale projects. As an artist who pays meticulous attention to detail, I am exploring ways to maintain a high level of detail while scaling up my work.

Do you ever do guest spots and how do we book in?

I announce the dates and locations of my guest spots on Instagram. I usually post this information one to two months in advance, so it’s best to follow my account for updates. In countries where there is potentially a large customer base, spots can fill up within a week.

Make sure to follow Nonlee on Instagram @non_lee_ink for more tattoos and to book yours.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

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“The scene is filled with free-thinking, warm and downright cool people” – Continuous Portrait Project

About five years ago, Cameron Rennie bought an analogue camera from a vintage photography shop in his hometown of Edinburgh. He challenged himself to take ten portraits of his mates. They ended up being mostly heavily tattooed people. Seeing their images in black and white, something clicked aesthetically for Rennie. And so The Continuous Portrait Project was born on Instagram. Photos of people connected to the tattoo world, he wanted to capture its beautiful diversity.

Rennie travels all over the UK to meet tattooers to photograph while they chat. And this blog is an extract from Rennie’s brand new book, The Continuous Portrait Project, which is a selection of his favourite photos – along with a blurb of his memories of the meeting – a moment in time, if you will. Dive in and then buy the book…

words and photos: Cameron Rennie

EMILY COLLINS

Emily and I met at The Big North Tattoo Show in Newcastle, where she is based. At the time, she was running her brand called Rock & Rose Motel, which focuses on making prints and homeware using traditional American tattoo designs.

Around the time this photo was taken, Emily was beginning her apprenticeship at Blind Tiger Tattoo. If her designs from Rock & Rose are anything to go by, I’m sure she will make a fantastic tattooer; her passion and drawing ability are already both there. By the time this book comes out, she’ll be smashing it!

JADE CLARK

Jade’s roots in tattooing are grounded and traditional, which makes her work accessible and accommodating of so many different styles. There’s a real celebration in her work of all styles and interests, and I think this is a great reflection of who Jade is.

Jade’s ability to speak openly and honestly about issues faced in tattooing from underrepresented communities is considered and poignant. It’s been noticed by other outlets as well, as she’s taken to podcasts and panel discussions to continue these important discussions. This, combined with her huge personality, makes her an outstanding person to hang out with. She’s an asset to tattooing and symbolises what is so special about the UK tattoo scene.

KAT HARDY AND EION

Kat Hardy is a tattooer in Bangor, Northern Ireland, who runs the studio Four Oracles Tattoo. Her style blends neotraditional tattooing with dark and romantic elements. She’s also known as a go-to tattooer for rockstars, having tattooed numerous punk musicians. Not only does she tattoo the band members themselves, but she also has a real talent for creating designs that sympathetically reference the music and lyrics.

We opted to take Kat’s portrait in the grounds of Belfast’s botanical gardens. Kat came to meet me with her partner Eion, who I also found an instant connection with. While the shots of her on her own are stunning, I chose this image of the couple together – not only is it a fantastic shot, but it also serves as a reminder of a wonderful time.

NIKKI KOTECHA

Nikki is a Desi tattooer and motorbike enthusiast from London. We met at Regents Park on a scorching summer day, to talk about life, tattooing, and everything in between. When talking about the stigma of tattooing, I felt privileged to hear Nikki’s journey into tattooing and the struggles she has endured to follow her dream.

As our conversation deepened, I spoke about my experiences and thoughts on how I feel there is an unseen force that steers me to meeting certain people. Nikki told me how, in Indian culture, a person’s true purpose is also known as Dharma. This conversation also felt that it had been ‘steered’, as it was at a point in the project where I finally knew what I was put here to do. Although our conversation was brief, it was incredibly deep and meaningful.

RIZZA BOO

After initially meeting Rizza at the Brighton Tattoo Convention, we arranged to meet up for these photos in Glasgow, at her studio Shadow Work. Rizza is a truly special person, not only in her artistry but also as an avid campaigner in highlighting issues experienced by people of colour within the context of tattooing. In addition to this tireless and emotionally-labouring work, Rizza gave critical feedback and took the lead on developing the exhibition Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed, Reclaiming the Narrative in 2022, to include the representation of people of colour.

Rizza is a deep thinker and someone I find very easy to get lost in conversation with. This photo was taken while her friend and fellow tattooer Lord Montana Blue was guesting with her. I was lucky enough to capture them in the midst of tattooing each other; I hope what I captured shows their mutual respect and admiration.

You can order the book from: kntpublishing.bigcartel.com/product/the-continuous-portrait-project

Launch party on Weds 5 Feb at Flamin’ Eight in Camden, London, info on Instagram

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Tattoo artist Lucy Thompson Speaks at TEDxNHS about free nipple tattoos for breast cancer survivors

Lucy Thompson speaks at TEDxNHS

Tattoo artist Lucy Thompson – who’s also an award winner, businesswoman and mother from Cullingworth in Bradford – recently received a standing ovation for her TEDxNHS talk discussing free nipple tattoos post mastectomy. She offers an alternative option to the NHS through her charity The Nipple Innovation Project

Lucy took the stage before an audience of 400, with millions more tuning in via live stream, to share her inspiring story of how her transformative tattoo work has become a lifeline for so many. After her talk, people lined up to speak with her, leaving Lucy deeply moved by how much her work resonates with others and grateful for the opportunity to share her message.

How The Nipple Innovation Project started

Lucy has been a tattoo artist since 2013 and started offering realistic areola tattoos to support women who have undergone breast cancer surgery. Her inspiration came from her aunt, who experienced a mastectomy, breast reconstruction, a nipple graft, and a tattoo in hospital.

Although her aunt recovered well, ten years after her diagnosis, the fading tattoo needed some love. The prospect of returning to the hospital felt daunting, and the impact on her body image deeply affected her self-esteem.

“I asked her what it would mean to her to have this tattoo looking more realistic and she said it would help her feel whole again,” Lucy tells us. “After the trauma of going through cancer, I want to make the restorative period as stress-free as possible and help women feel like themselves again, drawing a line under the arduous journey they‘ve been through. Why should they have to return for future treatment when it can be done in one process?”

Driven by a strong passion for finding a better way, Lucy took matters into her own hands and created The Nipple Innovation Project. 

About The Nipple Innovation Project 

The Nipple Innovation Project became the first charity to collaborate with the NHS by partnering with Bradford Teaching Hospitals to offer nipple tattoo services post-surgery. This groundbreaking initiative caught the attention of TEDx, leading them to invite Lucy to speak about her work and her direct involvement with the NHS.

Lucy founded The Nipple Innovation Project in 2018 to provide education, funding, and access to skilled tattoo artists for breast cancer survivors seeking specialised nipple tattoos. After founding the project after years of doing private work, Lucy’s story went viral through a BBC article. She was soon overwhelmed with requests from women across the country seeking her help with their faded hospital tattoos.

Currently, survivors undergoing mastectomies are offered free semi-permanent tattoos through the NHS, but they often fade and can lead to physical and emotional challenges. Repeat treatments are rarely available due to funding limitations and the risk of further damaging delicate scar tissue. Determined to make a difference, Lucy launched her initiative to advocate for permanent 3D nipple tattoos.

Example of nipple tattoo provided by The Nipple Innovation Project

The project aims to raise awareness of this life-changing services, ensuring people know it exists and have access to information about all available choices, encouraging them to make informed and educated decisions.

“Work was, and still is being done by practitioners who are given minimal training, and they are unintentionally causing further damage,” explains Lucy. “I wanted to make my service accessible to anyone affected by breast cancer without cost being a factor and I wanted to build a directory of artists throughout the UK to make it more accessible to more people, so the charity was born. This has been a huge labour of love, and so much harder than I anticipated, but we are making inroads to this becoming more mainstream, and it is all worth it.”

Lucy Thompson at TEDxNHS

Centered on the belief that ’ideas change everything’, TEDx fosters impactful conversations and the exchange of big ideas worldwide. Having a woman in the tattooing industry take the stage to use this platform for destigmatising a taboo topic is truly incredible.

“The work we do is still so unknown, but it can be life -changing,” says Lucy. “When people come out the other side of cancer, there’s still so much trauma to overcome and after a mastectomy, there‘s not just physical healing, but emotional, too.” 

“Nipple tattoos are offered on the NHS for people who want them, but they are basic, semi permanent and they quickly fade away, negatively impacting a person’s self esteem. Our solution is here to stay and the result is much more realistic looking, as we are using our specific skills as tattoo artists.“

“We also offer our services in a beautiful private studio in a rural setting, out in the countryside, so there are no hospitals and the experience is one that encourages reflection, escapism and serenity, helping survivors to find their confidence again, and to help them love their bodies again after they have been through something so life changing.”

Watch Lucy Thompson’s full TEDxNHS talk, here. 

Follow The Nipple Innovation Project

Stay connected with The Nipple Innovation project by following them on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, where you can witness their stunning creations come to life.