Tattoo Studios Archives - Page 2 of 27

January 28, 2024January 28, 2024

Apprentice love: Emily Roberts aka tv dinner tattoo

Emily Roberts (she/her) apprentices at Cock A Snook in Heaton, Newcastle Upon Tyne. You might know her as tv dinner tattoo (@tvdinnertattoo), here we about her “ignorant” designs, her journey into the tattoo world and her hopes for the future…

You grew a large social following through your art and flash designs before you were tattooing. Can you tell us about this?

I started my account in 2022 – the goal was to find an apprenticeship and get into tattooing as a career. To get my name and designs out there, I was determined to draw and post every day to help me find my audience. The support from my followers gave me great motivation to keep searching for a placement and improving my drawing until I eventually find my place at Cock A Snook.

How did you become a tattoo apprentice? When did you start?

My account was still new when my now mentor sent me a lovely message about my profile and gave me some words of encouragement to keep pushing and building my portfolio. At the time, they already had an apprentice so there no space for me, but one year later I got a message asking if I’d like to come into the studio to see it and have a talk about a possible apprenticeship opportunity. It all went amazingly and I officially started my apprenticeship in June of 2023.

What inspires your designs?

I look to my personal interests for inspiration – I find enjoyment in drawing things I’m passionate about. For example, I look back to things I remember from my childhood or I’ll be inspired by a favourite film, song or video game. I also like to look to the ordinary and turn everyday objects into silly designs.

How would you describe your style?

Ignorant blackwork with some illustrative thrown in there.

What’s the studio like where you’re working?

The studio is an absolutely amazing space to work and hang out in. All of the artists I work alongside are so supportive and helpful and it’s somewhere I can openly be myself without fear of being judged. Cock A Snook always stood out to me as a studio, even before I found my place there, as it strives to be a safe and inclusive space that is welcoming to everyone.

We’re huge fans of tattoo artist Kezz and the work she does under Tattoo Smarter, is she mentoring you?

Yes, Kezz works as my mentor and has taught me an insane amount about all areas of being a tattoo artist as there is so much to learn both on skin and off. She is also just an incredibly thoughtful, kind and caring person who wants to improve tattooing for the better for artists and clients alike.

What’s been your favourite thing you’ve learnt so far?

I think trying out and learning how to use different types of tattoo machines was so fun and informative but I also love the satisfaction of being able to pull a crispy bold line. I’m constantly learning so my answer is always changing…

What’s a day in the life as an apprentice like for you?

During a typical day, I get to the shop and do some of the shared studio cleaning jobs and then start getting set up and ready for whatever I’m tattooing. Any spare time I have inbetween is spent drawing and catching up on admin as well as all the behind the scenes stuff that goes into the job.

When I have time I also like to record “Day in the Life” videos for my social profiles to show off specifically what I get up to as an apprentice. Now that I’m getting progressively faster at tattooing, I sometimes tattoo three clients in a day which is great practice! I also tend to ask a lot of different questions during a day so I can learn new things to help me progress in my journey.

Do you help set up for other artists?

Before I ever went near a tattoo machine, I used to set up my mentor Kezz’s station as much as possible. Repeating the steps I was shown repeatedly was so useful in teaching me the ways to assemble and disassemble a station correctly. There have also been times where artists have been running a bit behind so I’m more than happy to set up for them and help out wherever I can!

What drew you to the tattoo world?

I’ve been fascinated by tattoos since I was a child and I always knew I wanted to get tattooed myself. Even as a kid, I talked about wanting to become a tattoo artist but didn’t think I’d ever get there. Outside of that, I also just think carrying a permanent piece of art with you through life on your skin is the coolest practice.

What’s your first memory of tattoos or tattooing?

My grandad had a very old-school traditional swallow tattoo on his upper arm, which I remember being obsessed with when I was small – probably because he was the only person in my whole family with a tattoo. A few years ago, I got a swallow tattoo on my arm to match in his memory.

Can you tell us about your own tattoo collection?

I started getting tattooed just after my 18th birthday and now I have 21 tattoos in total by many talented artists from up and down the country. I’d say my favourite tattoos are probably my matching glittery knee webs by @keelyglitters. They’re just stunning and have helped me feel so much more confident about myself and the area they’re tattooed on.

What does the future look like for you?

My main goal is to continue learning and growing as an artist. In the short time I’ve been an apprentice, I’ve seen great growth in my art and in myself as a person, which I hope continues as I make my way. In the long term, I’d love to be able to guest spot at other studios as well as take part in tattoo conventions and other events. I’m just super excited to see what’s next and where this journey takes me.

Make sure to follow Emily (@tvdinnertattoo) on her tattoo journey and get booked in.

We’re always sharing our favourite tattoo apprentices on the blog, read more interviews here.

January 10, 2024January 10, 2024

“The main inspiration is always the emotions that lie underneath the surface, in their raw form,” interview with surreal tattooist, Poesis

We’re obsessed with the work of tattoo artist Poesis. She’s based in Hamburg, and is a resident artist at HOOD7. The tattoos she creates are magical, with an otherworldliness about them, sometimes you’re not quite sure exactly what you’re looking at – doors that open to other doors, bookcases with birds poking their head out… each of the tattoos Poesis creates is born from an emotion – and you can feel that in each one-of-a-kind tattoo. We caught up with the tattoo artist to find out more about her weird and beautiful work…

Poesis / @poesis_tattoo Poesis / from her video art project ’The Simultaneousness of Blooming & Withering’

Do you have a first memory of tattoos? What made you fall in love with them?

This is actually quite funny, my first memory of tattoos is having a crush on this fully tattooed musician. He was covered head to toe and I thought it was the coolest thing. That’s the first time I fell in love with the aesthetic.

During my teenage years, I used to hang around alternative kids. A friend asked me to draw a tattoo design for him, that’s when I first encountered the connection between tattoos and the art world I was so interested in.

The real moment though – the one that got me completely hooked – was when colourful micro realism tattoos started developing a few years ago. The incredible precision of details, the colours, the strong references to the art I grew up with. It captivated my heart.

It’s really interesting how moments in our life, that maybe seemed insignificant, become turning points on our journey. We’re always subconsciously moving towards where we’ll eventually end up.

When did you know you wanted to become a tattoo artist? How did you learn?

I’d just got my second tattoo from Kozo, it was ‘The Old Guitarist’ by Pablo Picasso. While admiring my new tattoo and searching for the right artistic medium to dive into, I realised that tattooing is the perfect way to express all my strengths, do the things I love and live a comfortable life. It’s like all the puzzle pieces came together.

Later on, I had the opportunity to learn from Kozo himself. After spending a month by his side, we parted ways and I kept learning on my own, developing the technique, process and designs you see today.

We love your style so much, how did that evolve? Where do your ideas come from and what inspires you?

Thank you! The main inspiration is always the emotions that lie underneath the surface, in their raw form. I focus a lot on the feelings I want to convey in the design. It’s all a matter of embracing who we are and allowing ourselves to be. In these moments, creativity gets the room it deserves, whatever spills out, I roll with it. My art is me and I’m my art. As I evolve as a person so does my art. As long as I let my creativity roam free my art will keep evolving.

Techniques always arrive with time, they stay in your muscle memory, slowly developing as you practice. Creativity, on the other hand, can come in a swing. We just need to learn to open that door in the way that suits each of us. Creativity is one of the most important assets and valuable tools to reflect our minds as artists. Nurture it, learn it, develop it, cherish it, keep it safe, love it.

Poesis / @poesis_tattoo / from ’The Simultaneousness of Blooming & Withering’

There’s some incredible photos of you on your Instagram, are they inspired by your work?

These photos are extensions of a bigger multi-medium project I produced and preformed in, called ’The Simultaneousness of Blooming & Withering’ [you can watch the video on Instagram]. It’s video art inspired by a flash design I made. Apart from the video art, the project holds the stills photos, flower art and the tattoo itself.

The idea for this project was born after being eager to extend my art to other mediums and to find another way to share what stands behind my tattoo designs. There was a search for self expression, for a way to show a side of Poesis that’s always strongly integrated into my art.

I collaborated with my friends, a photography duo (Ofek Avshalom and Rona Bar) and with a flower artist (Danielle Barkat), together we executed the concept based on the design and what stood behind it. ‘The Simultaneousness of Blooming & Withering’ was featured in Vogue, printed in Iconic Artist Magazine and TattooLife Magazine. This project makes me very proud.

Where do you come up with the motifs that you include in your work? From art, life, customer’s ideas? How do you know what you’d like to mix together in that unique surreal way?

The inspiration for the motifs I choose is all around, if we open our eyes and mind we can see it in the smallest to the biggest of things, but mainly, it’s within ourselves.

Naturally being attracted to surrealism, dark aesthetics, the unconventional, the dreamy and bizarre, I subconsciously find myself creating symbolism around these worlds.

Before each tattoo I meet with my clients and I listen to them. Whatever they feel like bringing up, I welcome with open arms. Through that process, a brainstorm will start to appear, motifs that connect directly and indirectly will float to the consciousness. When creating a design I usually start with this intuitive approach – scrambling around, channeling into a sketch whatever comes to mind.

Sometimes I don’t know exactly what I’m going for, I just continue focusing on the emotion and experiences we choose to convey, until the sketch forms into a solid image I’m satisfied with.

How do you like to work with customers and their ideas?

I’m always open to hear my client’s ideas, explore and work with whatever comes up. If my clients are being creative, I like to encourage it. Keeping our mind open to new ideas and concepts is crucial for our connection with our surroundings and ourselves.

With that being said, I rarely receive a request for a structured idea. My clients trust my artistic abilities and process to embody the emotions that were brought to the surface. Every piece I make is custom, my art holds two worlds that are coming together for a unique, one of a kind collaboration. In order to create such tattoos, to hold such a mix of precision and creativity, I require artistic freedom and flexibility. If the artist doesn’t have the freedom to create, the freedom of expression, what’s left of their artistry?

What’s next?

Keep focusing on evolving as a person and as an artist. I hope to expand my artistic universe by diving deeper into inner worlds and minds, finding new ways to embody the soul, develop my creativity and explore other mediums to share my art.

Follow Poesis on Instagram @poesis_tattoo. Her video art project is called ’The Simultaneousness of Blooming & Withering’

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

December 11, 2023January 11, 2024

Ink and horror: a conversation with horror tattoo collectors

The tattoo community is full of horror enthusiasts – the genre captures the imagination of tattoo artists and clients alike. From gruesome characters from films and books – what could be more freaky than Chuckie covered in blood? – to figures like something from your worst nightmares. Our writer Emily Fletcher tracked down some horror tattoos collectors and the tattooists bringing these designs to life – settle in for a wild ride…

Tattoo artist Aleksandr Morozov – @alexmorotattoo

“My inspiration is horror movies, so I like to do tattoos with this theme. The shots from these movies are always contrasting and with well placed light. This I consider the main thing for my realistic tattoos. I achieve depth and volume in my work. Thus, mesmerise my clients and achieve positive emotions.”

Tattoo artist George Roberts – @gtattoos666

“I’ve been a tattoo artist in London for 13 years. I grew up watching horror movies, probably too young, and also had some wild paranormal experiences – this world has been in my blood from day one. I really enjoy tattooing classic horror movie characters, such as Jason Voorhees, Michael Myers, Ghostface etc… I could tattoo these everyday for the rest of my life. I specifically love meeting clients who want to have these characters on them for life and so they are probably just as big a fan as I am. I’ll even pop one of the classic movies on while they are being tattooed for the full experience – that can be quite fun.”

“The last one is one of my custom designs. I’d love to do more of these. These ideas usually come from my research into demons and anything on the darker side. I love the beauty of 1920s models and faces that are quite vintage but of course with a demonic twist, the contrast of those two elements can be striking. The one I’ve shared is my own interpretation of the demon Lilith. I specifically work in black work and black & grey. I feel this works best for these style designs.”

Artist Žana – @varshakot.flash

“I enjoy creating horror designs because I grew up watching horror movies, they’re very comforting for me. It’s also good for me mentally, it helps me to cope with anger. Horror movie killers also often just have a really badass look, which I love to draw.”

Tattoo collector Melissa Slater – @acslater27

“I started collecting these tattoos because I enjoy these horror films. I didn’t spend a lot of time thinking about it. It was kind of a ‘just do it!’ thing! Beetlejuice, Shorty from Killer Klowns from Outer Space, Black Phillip from The Witch and Scream. All top films for me. My tattoos are all done by Alex at Muse in Palmyra NJ.”

Tattoo collector Jaimee – @jtilb

“I’ve always been a big horror movie fan, and as I got older I knew I wanted horror inspired tattoos. These pieces are a lot more detailed than a lot of my other work, and I just love how they turned out. I get loads of compliments on them, especially the Goosebumps tattoo as it’s very nostalgic for a lot of people. All tattoos done by @emmajeantattoos“

Tattoo collector Georgie – @georgie_kfilm

“From the moment I first started getting tattoos I knew I wanted mainly horror related ones – I love the genre, but I’m also a horror film writer and director. First up is one I designed myself, from IT Chapter Two. I love taking less used imagery from horror films and translating it into art for my body, it makes the piece feel super unique!”

“Then we have my favourite slasher icon Ghostface, this is probably my favourite tattoo that I have. Finally my cat baby Pennywise, I’ve always loved tattooist Barbie’s cat babies but knew I wanted a horror twist for mine, and what was better to get than Pennywise, especially since my name is Georgie. All my tattoos are done by the wonderful @barbielongfox“

@georgie_kfilm tattoos by @barbielongfox

Tattoo artist Olivia – @cowgurl_bebop

“I love doing horror-related tattoos because a lot of horror is creating the narrative potential of something scary that could happen. A lot of people who come in to get these tattoos have sort of created a vague backstory around what makes the tattoo they’re getting feel spooky to them and I’m really into hearing these stories!”

Tattoo artist Marissa Gray – @grxy.tattoo

“I do black and grey horror realism and Illustrative tattoos, normally with splashes of red. I have always wanted to do horror and spooky tattoos and am so lucky to finally do so at this point in my career. I feel that unintentionally my favourite film and musical Sweeney Todd – The Demon Barber of Fleet Street influenced my work with it’s beautiful desaturated colour palette and bold red blood. Despite most of my pieces being solely black and grey, the use of red truly compliments the subject matter so well and I am grateful to be tattooing a genre that goes hand in hand with my artistic vision.”

Into horror tattoos… tag us in yours @thingsandink

We love getting the stuff we’re obsessed with tattooed on our bodies… check out our recent post on foodies tattoos.

September 27, 2023October 8, 2023

What are vegan tattoos? Everything you need to know

Vegan tattoos? Yep it’s a thing. No idea where to start? Then our ultimate guide to vegan ink is for you. Given that both tattooing and veganism represent lifestyle commitments, it was just a matter of time before these two communities came together.

So, what are vegan tattoos? Vegan tattoos are essentially tattoos crafted using eco-conscious materials and methods, notably vegan ink. In contrast to conventional tattoo ink, vegan tattoo ink is entirely devoid of any animal-derived ingredients. In contrast, traditional tattoo ink is made using components extracted from animal fat, bones, or crushed beetles.

Okay, let’s dive in, here’s EYNTK about vegan tattoo ink…

Okay, so what exactly is vegan ink?

Vegan ink does not contain any ingredients derived from animals. Vegan inks use vegetable-based glycerin, witch hazel or ethanol and carbon or logwood to achieve a bold black colour. When it comes to coloured inks, what sets them apart is the liquid that companies use to mix with the powdered pigments. Vegan ink is sourced from plants or vegetables, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

So what is traditional tattoo ink made of?

Traditional tattoo inks usually consist of tiny solid pigment particles, molecular dyes, and binders all mixed together in water. However, that’s not all. As confirmed by PETA, traditional tattoo ink includes glycerin, shellac, gelatin or bone char. These are all ingredients derived from either animal fat, animal bones, or ground-up beetles. Others may contain beeswax, cod liver oil, or lanolin. These ingredients primarily serve the purpose of stabilising the ink and increasing pigmentation.

Is vegan tattoo ink safe?

While lacking scientific evidence, vegan tattoo ink is widely regarded as exceptionally safe on the skin.

Moreover, it’s often believed to have a lower likelihood of triggering allergic responses. People sporting vegan tattoos have reported enhanced colour consistency and greater longevity.

@_emily.fletcher‘s Tattoo by @carly_snow_tattoo

I got this tattoo back in 2021 from Carly Snow, a tattoo artist in Sheffield who used vegan ink. It’s been two years now, and my tattoo hasn’t really changed much quality wise. As you can see, using vegan tattoo ink doesn’t compromise the quality at all; the only distinction is that it’s a more ethical choice. I’m a vegetarian and passionate animal rights advocate, so I always strive to opt for the most ethical options available.

Asking vegan tattoo artists why they use vegan ink

I spoke to Harriet Hope, a vegan tattoo artist based in Brighton, UK, about why she uses vegan ink. She said:

“I choose vegan inks because there is no reason not to. Many of the popular brand inks such as Solid or Eternal are vegan, so it’s just as easy to choose vegan quality ink than anything else.

Why wouldn’t you want to limit suffering to animals when there is no loss of quality or convenience choosing vegan ink brands?”

Another vegan tattoo artist based in Hamburg kept it short and sweet with:

“I use vegan ink as I’m vegan and I don’t use animal products anyways.”

Simple and to the point, love it.

Jimmy Galan, a Brighton based vegan tattoo artist also commented on his decision to use vegan ink:

“Well since I’m vegan myself I believe that animals are in this world with us and not for us.

The notion of exploiting them just because we can doesn’t sit well with me and doesn’t align with my morals.

When I went vegan 10 years ago I had to obviously bring my morals to my job as I thought it would be hypocritical otherwise.

Today the majority of mainstream ink brands label their products as vegan. So these inks aren’t something that you’ll only get from a vegan tattoo artist, as most people use the same ink without even knowing that they’re vegan.

So vegan ink is “traditional ink” in many cases. People were using inks free from animal products before the term ‘vegab’ came along.

Some brands still use animal products such as bone char, glycerine from animal fat, gelatine from hooves , insect parts and others but as the world progresses these brands that choose to not move with the times get left behind.

But it goes further than ink. When a tattoo artist says ‘vegan tattoos’ it means (or should mean) that all their supplies are free from animal products and cruelty free (not tested on animals) This goes for cleaning solutions, tattoo ointments, stencil papers, stencil applicators, skin preparation solutions, surface flooring and all cleaning products in general.”

Do vegan tattoos cost more?

No, vegan tattoos generally don’t come with a higher price tag. But, it really depends on the tattoo artist. Tattoo costs vary from one artist to another. Some base their charges on the time spent, some on the placement of the tattoo, and others may charge extra for their experience level. It’s subjective.

While a few artists might charge a bit extra for using vegan ink, usually, there are other factors that take priority when determining the final price.

Do vegan tattoos fade faster?

No, vegan tattoos do not fade faster. The longevity of tattoo ink isn’t affected by it being vegan or not. What truly counts for fading is the quality of the ingredients used and how you care for your tattoo afterwards.

Are vegan tattoos the future?

With the surge in veganism’s popularity and a growing shift towards progressive and eco-conscious values, the tattoo industry has undergone a transformation. Today, many tattoo studios and artists are embracing vegan-friendly practices and products that are both cruelty-free and environmentally friendly. As a result, the use of vegan ink is becoming increasingly mainstream within the tattooing community.

Vegan tattoo aftercare

If you’re all about that vegan life, that’ll include tattoo aftercare too. Make sure to keep an eye out for these ingredients when you’re on the hunt for vegan tattoo aftercare products.

Aloe butter
Calendula
Coconut oil
Lavender
Vitamin E
Peppermint
Rosemary oil extract
Shea butter
Sunflower, grapeseed and rice bran oils
Various essential oils and natural fragrances.

Vegan tattoo aftercare skips harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients, sparing your skin from irritation. Instead, it uses natural ingredients to soothe and speed up healing, reducing scabbing too.

How to find a vegan tattoo artist

To find a vegan tattoo artist, you can easily search for ‘vegan tattoo artist‘ on Instagram. Instagram is great for tattoo artists because it lets them showcase their work visually. If you can’t find a specific artist, searching for ‘vegan tattoo studio’ can introduce you to multiple vegan tattoo artists.

Usually, these artists or studios will mention their use of vegan ink in their social media bios. If not, you can send them a quick direct message (DM) to ask if they use vegan ink or have a vegan ink option available. It’s a simple way to make sure you’re getting a tattoo that aligns with your values.

Vegan tattoo ink brands

Are you a tattoo artist looking to switch to vegan ink? Check out these 5 brands that provide high-quality ethical tattoo ink.

Final thoughts

Opting for a vegan tattoo is no different from getting one with conventional ink. If you’re interested in getting a vegan tattoo, explore the mentioned artists or search for one near you. If you can’t find a vegan tattoo artist nearby, keep an eye out for upcoming tattoo conventions where you’ll likely find talented vegan artists!

About the author – Emily Fletcher

“In 2022, I received my BA (Hons) in English Literature. Currently, I work as an SEO Executive at a digital marketing agency in Sheffield, while also freelance writing in my spare time. I have always loved writing, and I thoroughly enjoy delving into people’s opinions, dissecting the significance behind topics, and discussing unconventional subjects. I find great fulfilment in challenging people’s thoughts. My aim is for readers to gain fresh insights and learn something new from my writings.

On my 18th birthday, my parents gave me money for my first tattoo. My dad sat with me for the whole three hours with a Lucozade orange on hand. Since my first tattoo, I haven’t stopped, nor intend to just yet. To me, tattoos are like a permanent piecing of clothing. How you express yourself in your dress sense, I express myself through my tattoos. They make me feel confident and happy when I look in the mirror. I love finding new artists, new styles, though I stick to American Traditional, I love treating my body like a personal diary. My favourite tattoo is my first arm piece done by Sheffield based tattoo artist Earl Reyn, a red dragon as seen below. Though I get a lot of compliments on my tattoos wherever I go, this one in particular strikes people’s attention.”

September 8, 2023September 8, 2023

“Tattoos are an amazing way to express our individuality,” tattoo artist, Ehyang

Tattoo artist Ehyang adores putting her art on people’s bodies. “I think it’s a proud and rewarding thing that someone likes my paintings and keeps them on their body for the rest of their lives,” she enthuses. “There‘s nothing more glorious as an artist than that.” We caught up with her to find out more…

What’s your earliest memory of tattoos? Did you always want to get tattooed?
“When I was young, I just liked getting tattoos because they looked cool… then I started to just fall in love more and more, so I thought what could be better than to make them my job?”

How long have you been tattooing for? How did you train to become a tattoo artist?
“This year marks my third year. For my sanitation education, I took theoretical classes on machines and needles After that, I practiced with a rubber board.”

How would you describe your style of tattooing?
“My style is fine line ornamental. To differentiate myself from other tattooists, I draw animals with an ornamental twist. That’s the characteristic of my tattoos. I love fine lines and decorative tattoos.”

Do you tattoo lots of tourists who’ve travelled for your work?
“Half of my guests are foreigners and some of them visit Korea just to get a tattoo from me.”

How long is your wait list? How do customers book in?
“I’m taking reservations by e-mail, I used a Korean chat app, but I think e-mail is easier. I usually tattoo one person a day.”

What are the rules for tattooing in South Korea? Is tattooing more underground or becoming more mainstream nowadays?
“I think Korea is still a little conservative about tattoos. Most young people get tattoos, and they like to get small tattoos. But I think there are more people getting tattoos than before.”

“I love that a client’s idea can take me somewhere I never thought I would go. “

What’s the best way for customers to come up with an idea for you? Do you offer flash or prefer custom work?
“Customised work is more fun. I love that a client’s idea can take me somewhere I never thought I would go. The design that I and the customer made is new and interesting…”

What is the address of your studio?
“It’s 61-1, Donggyo-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul. It’s my private studio.”

Any interesting hotels / shops / cafes nearby?
“There are many cute and pretty cafes near Mangwon-dong, Korea. There is a famous street called Mangridan-gil, and there are many cute shops there. Mangwon Market is also famous. It’s hard to walk around on weekends because there are so many people.”

Do you ever do guest spots? If so, when / where?
“I did in Singapore, Australia, Canada, and the U.S.”

What are your hopes and plans for the future?
“Now I want to settle down somewhere. I’d love that to be in America because I think I can do something fun and big with more diverse materials than in Korea. I’d love to create a unique style tattoo that only I can do…”

What do you love most about tattoos?
“Tattoos are attractive, there are so many styles and it’s fun to be able to express our individuality. And as an artist, I’m proud to be able to create my own creation with tattoos, and I don’t think there’s anything more interesting and attractive than that.”

Give Ehyang a follow on Instagram @e.hyang.tattoo.