Things and Ink magazine Archives

August 28, 2024August 28, 2024

“My work is defined by landscapes, anime and frame tattoos,” interview with tattoo artist Opal

Tattoo artist Opal (@opal.tattoo) is currently in Vancouver, Canada, where she creates breathtaking landscape tattoos. In this interview, she shares her most memorable tattoo experiences and how they helped shape the artist she has become today…

Opal first fell in love with tattooing at university; “when I was a sophomore in university, I realised that the Visual Design major was not a good fit for me and I started to question what I wanted to do.” She recalls that at that time she “became interested in drawing on the body rather than on paper. ” After that it only took Opal a year before they started to learn how to tattoo under @soltattoo and @tattooist_eq at Studio By Sol.

Now having tattooed for four years, Opal looks back at her humble beginnings, “I started with rubber pads” she says. But her talent shone through, “it was about a month and a half after I started that I began working on clients.”

She reveals how at first she felt apprehensive. “It was really nerve-wracking, and I found it difficult because I didn’t know which needles to use or how to angle the machine.” For Opal, “replicating the design exactly on the body was particularly challenging.” Although she was anxious and learning as she went, Opal took it in her stride and kept going.

We asked Opal about the first tattoo she did on someone else. “It was poetry related. The task was to create a design based on the feelings of a poem.” She admits that, “though it was abstract and challenging, I really enjoyed working on it.”

On discovering her most challenging tattoo, we had to ask about her most memorable tattoo experience. Opals shares how she created a tattoo for her dad. “It was especially memorable because my dad, who hates pain so much that he’s afraid of even getting an injection, got his first tattoo from me.” Smiling, Opal shares how grateful she is to her dad for that moment. It was really special.

Since then, Opal has done hundreds of tattoos, honing her craft to what it is today. With anime, nature and frame styles taking centrestage. She describes how her style has become what it is today. “At first, it was really difficult. If you scroll through my Instagram, you’ll see that I worked with very different designs compared to now. Back then, I was really stressed because of the designs. I didn’t know which designs suited me well.”

It was one of her mentors that helped her find her place in tattooing. “After a year of starting, the manager at Studio By Sol told me that I needed to find out what I really liked.” With this in mind Opal “started writing down everything I liked on a piece of paper. I found out that I love anime and landscape photography. Now, I mainly work with anime and landscape designs.”

When it comes to the inspiration behind her work, it’s her photography that inspires her the most. “I usually take pictures of natural landscapes and my friends.” It’s no surprise then that landscapes feature so heavily in her tattoos. Travel is also a big influence for the tattoo artist. “I often travel with my friends, and whenever I see a beautiful landscape or sunset, it becomes part of my design.”

Those tattooers who have paved the way are also an influence on her work. Although she can’t pinpoint one artist that she admires the most, Opal does “respect people who have dedicated themselves to a field for a long time. Especially in Korea, where tattooing isn’t fully recognised artistically or legally.”

Opal and these other artists are connected by their tenacity to keep going. She explains how she “admires those who continue in this profession without giving up.” Like them, she wants to pursue tattooing for as long as possible.

Currently tattooing in Vacouver, Opal is surrounded by artistic talent. “You can meet artists from many different countries, which allows you to see a wide variety of genres,” she shares.

When it comes to her clients, Opal’s work is evenly split between flash and custom design projects. The artist considers it important to “consistently upload flash designs” giving her clients the chance to wear a unique piece of her work that’s pre-drawn. She explains that “whenever I have time, I try to create and upload as many as possible.”

As Opal loves to tattoo different landscapes, we asked the artist if she has any guest spots planned. “I don’t have any guest spots planned at the moment.” But don’t worry, if you’re not in Vancouver you can keep an eye out for any guest spot announcements on her Instagram @opal.tattoo and inquire by email following the form provided.

Looking to the future and touching upon her Korean heritage, Opal shares how she “hopes tattoos can be perceived more positively by Korean people in the future.” Especially as there are now so many skilled tattooists in Korea. She believes that “Korean tattooing is renowned worldwide.” And yes, she’s proof of that.

Make sure to follow Opal on Instagram for more inspiring tattoos and to grab one of her flash designs for yourself.

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

August 8, 2024August 13, 2024

“Tattoos aren’t only a fashion accessory, but also a very precious thing that means a lot to someone,” interview with tattoo artist Nando

Tattoo artist Nando (@nandotattooer) owns Nando Studio in Seoul in South Korea. His Instagram is filled with the most beautiful pet and micro tattoos – most of the tiny tattoos he creates are under 10cm! Here he talks about his delicate style, falling in love with tattoos and his proudest tattoo moments so far…

How long have you been tattooing?

About 14 years now. Since 2010 when I graduated from art college. I’m a self-taught artist.

How did you become a tattoo artist and what made you want to become one?

I’ve been interested in art from a young age. I studied painting at university. Once I graduated from college I served in the military. I then lived in Madrid in Spain for about two years, which is where I met a group of friends who were tattooed. I hadn’t really seen tattoos before, especially not in Korea.

When I saw their tattoos, I realised that it was a really meaningful art form for people. I fell in love with it and so I came back to Korea and started my own tattooing journey.

Can you tell us about your own tattoos?

I have about 10 small tattoos. I’ve been to a lot of countries, while there I connect with some amazing artists. I usually get tattooed from artists in the country I’m in at the time. They’ve become souvenirs of my travels.

What was the first tattoo you did on someone else?

I gave one of my friends a plaster statue of Poseidon that I had made. He then wanted this tattooed but really big on his shoulder! It was my first time tattooing and I challenged myself. Especially as it was so big. It took me about 10 hours but I think I did pretty well despite it being my first ever tattoo.

How would you describe your style?

I wanted to tattoo what I painted. I always try to make my tattoos as detailed and meticulous as possible, because it’s something that’s engraved on one person for the rest of their lives.

What made you want to create small realistic tattoos?

I typically do a lot of my work in spaces that are under 10cm. I focus on tattoos that are meaningful to the people who are getting them. Also my work is very detailed. Each tattoo usually takes around three hours.

What do you like to tattoo?

I love tattooing anything that I think is beautiful. I love beautiful tattoos with stories behind them, because tattoos are not only a fashion accessory but also a very precious thing that means a lot to someone.

What inspires you and do you have any artists you admire?

I am inspired by so many artists. Lately, I’ve been inspired by the art of James Jean.
My tattoos are mostly natural objects such as animals or florals. My hometown is very rural, so I’m getting a lot of inspiration there, too.

Do you have any guest spots planned?

I’m getting invitations to tattoo people from many countries. I have a strong friendly relationship with @mommyimsorry studio in Germany.

How can clients book in with you?

Through my Instagram @nandotattooer. You can make a reservation for a detailed consultation using the email and kakaotalk app on my Insta profile.

What are the rules for tattooing in South Korea? Is tattooing underground or becoming more mainstream nowadays?

Tattoos are still treated as a medical practice in Korea! So tattoo artists are united and talking to the government to solve legal problems. I think it will be resolved in the next few years. Also social awareness of tattoos has improved a lot. Many celebrities get tattoos as a way of expressing themselves, so tattoos are becoming recognised in Korean society.

What’s been your proudest moment so far?

There have been so many proud moments while I’ve been doing tattoos. There was the time when I drew my work on to leather in collaboration with the brand Montblanc. It was an honour to work with a famous brand in this way.

Another moment was when I tattooed fingernails realistically over my customer’s fingers whose fingers were cut off. I was so proud of my job when I saw how satisfied and happy he was.

Follow Nando on Instagram for more beautiful pet and micro-realism tattoos.

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

May 29, 2024May 29, 2024

“Working on sugar-paste and soft skin feels sort of the same – and a moving person is similar to a spongey stacked cake!” from cake maker to tattoo artist, interview with Laura Raña

From cake decorator to tattoo artist, Laura Raña (@lifeininklr) runs a private, eco-friendly, vegan and woman-led studio and she holds the honour of “Surrey’s best tattoo studio 2023”.

She was a cake artist for 16 years – and she used to teach and write columns for magazines – so Laura came to tattooing late, but her passion shines through. Here she chats all things cakes, tattoos and creating a welcoming studio for all to enjoy. Make a cuppa and settle in for the ride…

Before you became a tattoo artist, you were a cake artist, what inspired you to make that change?

After spending 16 years juggling life as a mum of two daughters (Bella now 16 and Eva 14 ) and being a cake artist, I felt like I had achieved everything that I wanted in the cake world. I was 35 and I wanted to use my artistic flare and creativity for something that wouldn’t get stuffed down the throats of my customers week after week.

After spending so much time perfecting colour blending, modelling and painting on tiers of delicious sponges, I began thinking how I could transfer the skills I’d learnt. I wanted to create something that would last forever and not just briefly as brightly coloured crumbs on the side of people’s mouths.

Tattooing had always been something I was fascinated with. My grandad, who was an antiques dealer in the 50s until the 80s, was covered head to toe – back then, it was very taboo and frowned upon in his industry. I used to glare at the naked ladies and dragons strewn across his back, chest, arms and legs. He was six foot five, both tall and wide, his art work made quite an impression on me as a keen young creative artist in the making. He would definitely be one of my inspirations.

Tell us about your journey to becoming a tattooer…

I started slowly getting covered in tattoos at the very illegal age of 14. I would walk past the only tattoo studio in my town, hoping they wouldn’t notice me in my school uniform. Then when it came to holidays or weekends, I’d try to dress older and strut into the studio beaming with anxious confidence to keep topping up my ink collection. This was when my interest was sparked.

Skip forwards 21 years and after ignoring the narrow-minded warnings from everyone (including my parents) that it was a dangerous industry to get involved in, I began my search for a studio that wouldn’t laugh in my face.

That was the hardest thing – starting a new career at 35. I’m a strong-headed person, so I kept knocking on doors, in the hope someone – anyone – would see my passion. Rejection came thick and fast, but I found a studio, eventually.

Apprentices make zero money, well at least I did. I had lots of people offering their skin but trying to throw myself into this amazing new career was not financially viable. So I’d work four days at the studio, then balance part-time work and cake making around that.

What was it like being a cake maker? And how does it compare to tattooing?

I adored my career as a cake artist, what a dream to have a career in the cake industry. I actually entered Kirsty Allsop’s Handmade Christmas TV show by making a fully decorated Christmas cake in under four hours – I ended up winning. It blew up my career and I began making celebration and wedding cakes, and that led me to teaching. Then I opened my own cake studio – I even had my own little cake column in a magazine. I felt just like Carrie Bradshaw. I began entering cake competitions and I’m very proud to have many gold awards. I was even cast for Extreme Cake Makers on TV. I specialised in chocolate modelling, airbrushing and then painting on cakes – all things I brought through to my tattoo career.

Cake and tattoos although very different, there are some elements that feel similar. The use of colour and blending work is the same in tattooing. Working on soft sugar-paste and soft skin feels the same too. Also a moving person is similar to a spongey stacked cake! It could move at any time…

Can you tell us about your studio?

Everyone is welcome in my little private studio. It’s nestled among the bamboo trees in my back garden. It’s a comfortable, cosy, funky little safe space where no one should feel intimidated. I created a studio I would be comfortable being tattooed in, as I think the more at ease you are, the better the whole experience will be.

Tell us about the award your studio won…

Having spent seven years building up my (very) little business, I was stunned to be nominated for England’s Business Awards in 2023. I was even more taken back when I won the title of “Surrey’s best tattoo studio”.

I’ve never claimed to be the most sought after artist – and there are thousands of artists around Surrey that are phenomenal – but these awards are about your art and your business. So that includes reviews and customer service, amongst other things. I was even mystery shopped so they could see the kind of service I offer, how I dealt with my client and the overall experience.

My little framed award sits proudly in the studio where all can see.

How would you describe your style, what do you like to tattoo?

My style isn’t just one thing. Tattooing different styles and using different techniques allows me to broaden my work to appeal to a larger client base. I know it’s probably frowned upon in the industry, but I did the same with my cakes.

Learning different things is beneficial for a successful business and it enables me to become a better artist. I don’t want to pigeon-hole myself to just one thing. I don’t want to wake up one morning and be bored of the same old stuff. So, for me personally, variety is most definitely the spice of life.

How do you work with clients, what’s your tattoo process?

I find the industry has changed from years ago when you’d walk into a studio covered wall-to-wall in flash designs and people choose “number 10”. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that, but now with Pinterest and social media, people find ideas they like and perhaps want to combine a few ideas together. That’s where I come in, to create a design that fits their brief.

My focus is to ensure my clients are well informed, feel heard and understood and happy with their tattoo.

Is there anything you’d love to tattoo?

My “wannados” are based around pop art – bright, bold, almost comic sketches. It’s timeless art that stands out and looks super cool. But I feel like there isn’t much of a place for that as many clients want super fine line delicate pieces. I’d love to continue to tattoo thick lined patterns that are edgy and look amazing on everyone.

Any guest spots or travel plans?

I’m going to start guesting at a few studios towards the end of this year to get myself out there and socialise with other artists. I might attend a few conventions too.

Follow Laura on Instagram for more tattoos and updates on guest spots.

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

May 28, 2024May 28, 2024

“I always wonder how to explain my tattoo style, I think it’s just my own,” interview with Pisatché

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.

Follow Pisatché on Instagram for more awesome tattoos and travel updates.

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

March 1, 2024March 1, 2024

“There’s something fun about doing subversive tattoos in a world where being tattooed is no longer a subversive act.” The Art of Kink: Exploring the World of BDSM Tattoos

*NSFW: YOU MIGHT NOT WANT TO OPEN THIS ARTICLE IN FRONT OF YOUR GRANDMA OR YOUR BOSS AT WORK, AS THERE IS A LOT OF NUDITY, INCLUDING FULL FRONTAL (UNLESS THEY’RE INTO KINK, TOO)*

We love that BDSM offers a community of acceptance allowing people to embrace and celebrate their sexualities… We also adore that many tattoo collectors are choosing to proudly adorn their bodies with designs that reflect their connection to this vibrant, sex-positive and ever-growing community.

We spoke to the tattoo artists specialising in these designs about their perspectives on the BDSM and kink scene. Of course, we also heard from collectors about why they love these tattoos too…

@safewordbysophie – London, UK

“I was a fetish fashion model for over a decade and found myself surrounded by strong, intelligent women who owned their sexuality – I’ve always tried to replicate that both personally and artistically. As a young adult, the community really shaped me in a positive way and taught me a lot about consent and communication, which helps so much with my own tattoo clients.”

“Fetish work always seemed like the most natural thing to transition into tattooing as it was something I had a lot of knowledge of (and experience in) and I loved drawing it. My style translated to tattooing perfectly.”

Sophie’s admiration for photographers such as Bob Carlos Clarke, Guy Bourdin, Helmut Newton, and artists including John Willie and Tom of Finland sparked her interest in Shibari. With her background in fetish work and love for drawing, she found Shibari a natural fit. Transitioning to tattooing, her style remained consistent, reflecting her passion with ease.

“I’d say that 75% of my clients who get kinky work are female and most are LBGTQ+. I’ve worked with Sub/Dom dynamics before, but most of my work centres on female empowerment. I don’t tattoo women participating in anything NSFW that could be even slightly misconstrued as discomfort or pain. I also don’t tattoo fetish work anywhere that is really visible or hard to conceal – I can consent, as can my client, but the general public can’t.”

“I have a responsibility as an artist to make sure my clients’ wellbeing is the most important part of the process – that includes appropriately placing a tattoo that could potentially jeopardise job opportunities and how they are perceived in an everyday setting.”

@thatgirlsare – collector

“This tattoo screams ‘female sexual empowerment‘ and that’s exactly why I chose it. I asked the tattooist to change the fingers to ones that looked more feminine as there’s nothing more powerful than a woman who’s sexually empowered. It’s one of my favourite tattoos.”

@gabrielalastratattoos – Newcastle, UK

“I love creating sex-positive tattoos and working with a diverse group of clients who want to feel empowered through ink. These tattoos break stereotypes and attract people from all walks of life, each wanting a unique way to express themselves.

“From detailed designs celebrating body positivity to subtle symbols of liberation, sex-positive tattoos tell individual stories. I connect with clients who appreciate the art, building a community that values creativity over stereotypes – this means prioritising individuality, originality and diverse perspectives in artistic expression. It means embracing the uniqueness of each person’s creativity, regardless of societal norms or preconceived notions. It challenges stereotypes that may limit or box in people based on factors such as gender, race or background, making a more inclusive and open-minded creative community.”

“My clients might seem conservative on the surface due to their professional background or upbringing, but they express themselves through art that some might find taboo. It’s about embracing unexpected side.”

“My clients showcase the inclusive nature of sex-positive tattoo artistry. These tattoos aren’t seedy; they’re a celebration of personal thoughts and fantasies, breaking free from societal norms. My passion goes beyond the ink; it’s about witnessing clients reclaim their bodies and embrace their unique journeys.“

“Whether a client is quiet or outspoken, they become a platform for empowerment. Conversations sparked by these tattoos challenge norms and redefine beauty. This mix of art and self-discovery keeps me loving what I do, fostering connection and understanding.”

@latexpapi – Montreal, Canada

“I am a big fan of trying to push the boundaries of what a traditional tattoo is. I often source my inspiration from vintage fashion and fetish illustrations and photography.”

“My goal is to create designs that will shock your grandma but still portray the high class. I want to make designs that are sexy but not pornographic.”

@onnieolearytattoo – Sydney, Australia

“I think people often get these tattoos for the same reason gay men used colour coded handkerchiefs in their back pockets – it allows the wearer to signal their preferences indirectly, without broadcasting them to everyone.”

“Other people might use them to celebrate or commemorate an event.I got a two-headed snake after my first MMF threesome, and a jar of coconut oil after I tried anal successfully for the first time.”

“Plus, some elements of tattooing revolve around trust and pain in the same way that BDSM does, it’s a practice that requires you to be present in your physical body and exert a considerable amount of willpower, and you have to have faith in and good communication with your artist.”

“Artist Damien Hirst once said he wished art would be treated with the same respect as medicine and I think tattooing is as close as we get to that. When done right a tattoo offers us the opportunity to test our physical limits in a safe and protected environment.”

@dexterkay – Brighton, UK

“Getting into queer kink tattooing was a natural progression for me. This came from my growing confidence of my own sexual identity, and demanding space for acceptance and understanding. Because of this I have created a space where LGBT clients can come into a shop and feel comfortable to be 100% themselves throughout the experience. A lot of heteronormative clients don’t understand the stress and dilutions-of-self that queer clients go through. ‘Do I say boyfriend or partner? Is it a safe space?'”

“Queer sex still is still viewed as taboo; violence and rejection is a huge part of queer existence. Seeing that people have the confidence to wear what they were once ashamed of is exciting and opens fun conversations without judgement.”

“As an artist, it has made me push my drawing and ability to capture different positions and energy within an image. It’s always interesting to think how people can wear such an image, and how to play with ideas.”

@guerilla_needles – Edinburgh/Leeds – UK

“I love doing kink/BDSM tattoos because I’m part of the subculture, it’s fun to decorate my fellow perverts!”

“I’m not a gatekeeper in tattooing, but I also think that there’s something very fun about doing subversive tattoos in a world where actually being tattooed is no longer a subversive act. I like to be a part of that.”

@gerfer_tattoo – Dublin, ROI

“My name is German Ferreiroa AKA @gerfer_tattoo, I’m an Argentinian tattoo artist based in Dublin and co-owner of Secret Door Studio with my best friend Julie Midnight. My work is inspired by all gay subcultures, mostly leather and uniform men and, of course, I get specific requests and I do designs with whatever kinks or fantasies the custumer has.”

“At the end of the day what I love to do is to portray how beautiful the male body is in any way, shape and form.”

“I’m now known for my male genital tattoos [see below]. Something that not a lot of artists do. Alongside my tattoo career, I did a few different art projects including The Male Project and the Dick Pic Project, working with real models and self publishing six books. I’ve done different exhibitions in different studios and tattoo conventions around Europe and many more to come.”

@jaggyleightattoos – Glasgow, UK

“I created this because with all of the censorship that happens with vaginas and any sexual reference at all, I wanted it to be a confrontation to the viewer. And for them to simply enjoy it.”

Have you got any kink or BDSM tattoos? Or are you thinking about getting one? DM us on our Insta @thingsandink

About Things&Ink

Originally a printed tattoo magazine, Things&Ink is now a popular blog that takes an artistic approach to content. Our goal is to create work that utilises tattoo artists and people with interesting stories to share. This is a blog for artists, collectors, and those yet to go under the needle. As a reader, you will find out about new artists, products, and ideas that will enrich your tattooed lives. To stay up to date with our socials, check out the Things&Ink Instagram where we post frequently!