The Craft of Tattooing

The job of the craftsperson is to interpret, not express. I feel we should seek to compliment our clients through Japanese style tattooing.

I’m always making things simpler. Removing unnecessary design elements allows a client’s intrinsic character to shine through. The wearer should be complimented by the art they wear and not the other way around. The more details we insert, the more we insert ourselves, and classic symbolic power is watered down. The images should emphasize the client like a frame compliments a painting. Sometimes when tattoos read as a particular time period or trend, it creates tension and competes for the viewers attention.

I feel our job is to get out of the way, so that the imagery can do its job. We are in service to the symbols and the clients. This is the essence of the craftsperson as opposed to the artist. We act in service; but bounded by function. This connects us deeply to those we serve.