Chats & Tatts

What happens when an experienced henna artist and documentary filmmaker steps into custom tattooing? Aaron Della Vedova sits down with Portland-based artist Erika Ryn (Living Ritual Body Arts) to explore the deep connections between ancient body adornment and modern ornamental tattooing.

Erika breaks down the sacred history of natural henna, her documentary trips through India and Morocco, the dark side of toxic chemical "black henna," and the reality of navigating Oregon's mandatory tattoo licensing laws.

Are client-prompted AI designs taking over custom tattooing? Aaron Della Vedova sits down with Australian tattooer, shop owner, and podcast host Jake Straat (Rats Get Fat Podcast) to break down the global state of tattooing.

From navigating the post-COVID economy to handling clients who run artist flash through ChatGPT, Jake and Aaron discuss the fine line between technical execution and true artistry, modern numbing creams, and why classic watercolor painting remains the ultimate discipline for tattooers.

TIME STAMPS

00:00:00 — Introduction & Australian Geography

00:04:00 — Australian Tattoo Styles: Realism, Trad & Japanese

00:08:00 — Post-COVID Economy & The Shift to Smaller Tattoos

00:15:00 — Running a 20-Artist Studio vs. a 2-Man Trad Shop

00:21:00 — The 30-Year Evolution of the Tattoo Industry

00:25:00 — Pricing Differences: USA vs. Australia

00:30:00 — Creating Identity: Tattoos in the Age of Social Media

00:38:00 — AI in Tattooing: Clients Using ChatGPT for Designs

00:45:00 — Will Handmade Art Become a Luxury Flex?

00:52:00 — The Truth About Numbing Creams & Modern Healing

01:15:00 — Why Young Artists MUST Paint Watercolor Flash

QUOTES

• "Every single client is bringing in AI imagery now... It's no longer Pinterest, it's fucking AI." — Jake Straat

• "We're at a crossroads right now. Are you technically just going to rip tats and do what's asked of you, or are you going to say, 'No, I'm going to draw something'?" — Jake Straat

• "I don't think there's a lot of people fighting it as much as I thought there would be... Everyone should be able to do anything they want as long as it doesn't hurt people." — Aaron Della Vedova

• "The iPad art is cool, but it's just ones and zeros at the end of the day. You're not making an artifact when you create iPad art. Paint more flash." — Jake Straat

📲 CONNECT WITH JAKE STRAAT:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/straats_tatts

🎙️ CONNECT WITH AARON & CHATS & TATTS:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/chatsandtatts
• Aaron Della Vedova: https://instagram.com/aarondellavedova
• Official Website: https://chatsandtatts.com
• Guru Tattoo: https://gurutattoo.com

In Episode 121 of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with Kirk Nilsen—a pioneer of medieval, woodcut, and architectural ornamental tattooing.

In this episode, we discuss: • The early days of ornamental blackwork and overcoming industry backlash • Horror stories from 2000s-era apprenticeships (drug dealers, fake papers, and Sink-or-Swim moments) • The trap of defining your personal identity solely by your job • How AI, Procreate shortcuts, and pattern brushes are eroding original art—and why handmade work will ultimately skyrocket in value • The reality behind 14 years of tattoo shop ownership and making the pivot to Charleston, SC

1. "Everyone hated it... When the ornamental shit started really going off, every tattooer fucking hated it. I was definitely the new young guy everyone fucking hated." — Kirk Nelsen

2. "Handmade things will increase in value because it's going to become rarer and rarer. When clients see artists bragging about AI, they realize: this guy doesn't give a fuck about your tattoo." — Kirk Nilsen

3. "Potential beats talent if talent doesn't work hard. You've got to be God-given to some degree, but if you're working, getting better, and have that little 'it' thing, it's next level." — Kirk Nilsen

4. "Stop trying to be someone else. That's not how it works. Jackson Pollock was Jackson Pollock—he wasn't trying to be the next guy." — Kirk Nilsen

5. "I don't care about owning a business anymore. I don't want to deal with paperwork or people. I just want to draw pictures, tattoo the pictures, and go home." — Kirk Nilsen

In this episode of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with world-renowned tattoo artist Julian Siebert from Munich, Germany. Known globally for his incredible large-scale bodysuits, Julian shares his 21-year journey in tattooing, having completed over 200 backpieces and 100 frontpieces.

Together, they dive deep into the mindset of high-level tattooing, the controversy surrounding numbing cream, technical setups for maximum efficiency, the real impact of AI and social media on tattoo culture, and why Julian decided his current apprentice will be his last.

• 00:00 - Introduction & Welcoming Julian Siebert

• 01:43 - 200+ Backpieces & 100+ Frontpieces: Managing Massive Workload

• 03:16 - The Sacrifice of Passion: Balancing Work, Family & Friends

• 04:32 - The "Glass of Water" Philosophy: Choosing Not to Have Kids

• 07:00 - From Slayer & Slipknot to Quitting School After a Car Crash

• 11:02 - Tattoos as Psychological Armor: Building Client Self-Confidence

• 15:50 - Session Lengths: Tackling 7 to 9 Hour Tattoo Sessions

• 17:25 - The Numbing Cream Debate: "You Want a Tattoo? Earn a Tattoo"

• 23:32 - 21 Years of Change: Social Media, iPads, & The AI Threat

• 28:18 - Over-Saturation in the Tattoo Industry & Copycat Styles

• 33:05 - "We Have Enough Tattoo Artists": Why Julian's 6th Apprentice is His Last

• 38:34 - Pure Passion: Young Artists Giving Away 3 Days of Free Tattoos

• 41:45 - The European Economic Crisis & How It Affects Tattooing

• 45:37 - Technical Masterclass: Layering Blacks, Colors, & Sculpting Lines Last

• 50:20 - Machine Breakdown: Direct Drive, 4.2mm–4.5mm Stroke Lengths, & Speed

• 54:25 - Staying Inspired After 20 Years: Out-of-the-Box Thinking

• 1:02:55 - How to Book an Appointment with Julian Siebert

Follow Julian on Instagram: @julian.siebert

Follow Chats & Tatts: @chatsandtatts | @aarondellavedova

In this electric episode of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with comedian, former directional driller, and internet powerhouse Uncle Laser. Transitioning from high-stakes $500,000-a-year oil rig operations in 120-degree heat to stepping onto the Kill Tony stage for his very first stand-up set ever, Laser shares a raw, unfiltered look into his explosive journey. The conversation dives deep into the parallels between blue-collar labor and high-pressure performance, the harsh reality of burning through savings to chase a dream, and the profound moment a fan's story made him realize comedy is far bigger than money or fame.

Beyond the stage antics, Aaron and Laser unpack the mechanics of stand-up writing, navigating crowds without losing authenticity, and lessons learned from comedy heavyweights like Joe Rogan, Tony Hinchcliffe, and Brian Redban. They delve into wild personal stories, high-volume gambling, matrix-like algorithm theories, the existential threat of AI, and why staying true to yourself is the ultimate key to longevity in both life and entertainment.

Chapters

• 00:00 - Introduction & Welcoming Uncle Lazar

• 03:19 - Walking Away From $500K in the Oil Field for Stand-Up

• 06:34 - The Emotional Reality of Comedy & Fan Impact

• 11:27 - Directional Drilling vs. Comedy Mental Stress

• 15:20 - Writing Material vs. Testing Jokes on Stage

• 21:56 - Tattoo Culture, Business Operations, & Respecting the Craft

• 31:37 - The Authentic Creative Process

• 35:56 - How Aaron Tattooed Joe Rogan & Rogan's "No Bullshit" Vibe

• 37:30 - Brian Redban & The Inception of Modern Comedy Podcasting

• 41:10 - Deep Dive on Ron White & Finding Your Voice

• 48:00 - Sobriety, Longevity, & Navigating Comedy's Rockstar Lifestyle

• 55:48 - AI, Population Control, & Simulation Theories

• 1:07:21 - Evolving Comedy Style & Connecting with Audiences

• 1:12:47 - Media Manipulation, Social Algorithms, & Mind Games

• 1:22:06 - High-Stakes Gambling, Mathematics, & Closing Ou

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Connect with Uncle Lazer:

• Instagram: instagram.com/uncle_lazer
• TikTok: tiktok.com/@unclelazer69
• Tour Dates & Tickets: punchup.live/unclelazer
• Podcast: Search "My Drunk Uncle's Podcast" on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts
• Patreon: patreon.com/UncleLazer

The tattoo industry has undergone significant transformations in safety and professionalism since the 1960s and 70s, largely due to the efforts of key advocates for health regulations and training. In those early days, tattooing practices were far from the standards we consider safe and professional today. Artists often worked without gloves, used unsanitary equipment, and operated in environments that lacked basic health standards. For example, it was common for tattoo artists to dip sponges into metal buckets of water to clean the skin—a practice that would be deemed unacceptable by today's standards.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with Cathy Montie, a pivotal figure in this transformation, who shares her experiences from those early years, highlighting the chaotic and often unsafe conditions under which tattoos were performed. She recounted how her husband, Gil Montie, tattooed in their living room and later in a makeshift studio within an oil change shop, illustrating the lack of formal training and regulation at the time.

Tune in for an insightful look at tattoo history and the ongoing commitment to safety and professionalism in the industry.

Chat Highlights:

00:01:06 - Introduction

00:01:06 - Evolution of Tattooing from the 60s to Today

00:01:28 - Importance of Safety in Tattoo Industry

00:02:28 - Challenges of Regulating Tattoo Industry

00:03:31 - Cathy Montie's Bloodborne Pathogen Course

00:06:01 - Moving to Vegas and Tattooing with Doc Dog

00:09:03 - Tattoo Shows and Traveling Lifestyle

00:12:39 - Tattoo Forefathers

00:14:32 - Tattooing on the Carnival Circuit

00:18:14 - Working on the Movie Bound for Honor

00:19:16 - Evolution of Fake Tattoos in Movies

00:20:27 - Influence of Movies on Tattoo Culture

00:22:26 - Early Safety Practices and Needle Sterilization

00:25:01 - Tattooing in the Early 90s in Los Angeles

00:27:14 - Working with Freddy at Ratatatoo

00:29:30 - Leaving Ratatatoo and Moving to Isla Vista

00:32:31 - Opening Absolute Tattoo in San Diego

00:40:13 - Benefits of Retractable Cartridges

00:42:14 - Kathy's Role in Regulatory Changes

00:43:54 - Current Issues with Ink Regulations in Europe and the US

Quotes:

"How many of you out there would be going into tattoo shops and getting all these tattoos if they were run like they were run in the 60s?"

"How crazy is that? Just grabbing someone's bare skin with your hands and cutting into them with a tattoo machine."

"All it takes is a handful of really bad shops, somebody gets sick, somebody gets hurt, and now we've got some major problems on many levels."

"To enjoy our business. We are in the most amazing business we could be in, working with the public."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Connect with Cathy:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/cathymontie_bbp

In the tattoo industry, cultivating relationships and fostering a sense of community is essential for artists, as it provides them with support, inspiration, and a platform for growth. This podcast episode highlights the journey of tattoo artist Sebastian Kristen, who initially grappled with insecurities about social interactions and attending conventions. Despite these fears, he discovered that the tattoo community is filled with kind and supportive individuals, ultimately encouraging him to engage more with others in the field.

Join host Aaron Della Vedova as he interviews tattoo artists at Mondial du Tatouage tattoo convention in Paris. He introduces listeners to an exciting new artist, Sebastian Kristen, whose incredible work left a lasting impression on him. Tune in for insights into the vibrant world of tattoo art and the connections that make it so special!

Chat Highlights:

[00:02:22] Self-taught tattooing journey.

[00:06:10] Tattoo healing process and techniques.

[00:08:18] The client experience.

[00:10:23] Tattoo pigment techniques and effects.

[00:15:34] Social media's impact on tattooing.

[00:19:13] Tattoo history documentation challenges.

[00:23:20] Decorative tattoo movement on women.

[00:27:53] Future of tattooing trends.

[00:32:06] Tattoo artistry and branding.

Quotes:

"You really have to stick to it and most people can't."

"If you put pigment on the left and on the right, and then you put something in between that, the left and the right pigment holds it there."

"I was always way too lazy to post a lot and way too scared to go out to conventions."

"Since the last 10,000 years, every new generation was worse."

"Let's treat the tattoo like a dress."

"The sad thing is, I think it will become less interesting before it becomes more interesting."

"Social media is breaking us, man."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Connect with Sebastian:

https://www.instagram.com/sebastiankristentattoo

IG: https://www.instagram.com/justinweatherholtz/

Uncogrim, a tattoo artist with a decade of experience, emphasizes the importance of breaking away from traditional tattooing norms, particularly in the realm of Japanese-style tattooing. In a recent podcast episode, he discusses how his unique approach often involves omitting backgrounds in his designs, allowing the human body to become an integral part of the artwork itself.

Host Aaron Della Vedova interviews Uncogrim (Hoon Kim) at the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris. Aaron expresses his admiration for the exquisite detail and composition of Uncogrim's large piece work. Uncogrim shares insights about his journey as a tattoo artist, and despite the relatively short time, his impressive body of work suggests a deep commitment to his craft. Tune in to hear about his artistic inspirations and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of tattooing. For visuals of his incredible work, check out his Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/uncogrim

Chat Highlights:

00:00:00 - Extreme Tattoo Sessions

00:01:59 - Uncogrim's Tattooing Journey

00:04:24 - The Concept of No Background in Tattoos

00:05:04 - Artistic Choices and Inspirations

00:07:02 - Breaking Traditional Tattoo Norms

00:10:35 - Tattooing Legality in South Korea

00:12:23 - Uncogrim's Path to Becoming a Tattoo Artist

00:14:12 - Mentorship and Studio Challenges

00:16:00 - Emotional Connection to Tattooing

00:17:23 - Pain Management in Tattooing

00:20:25 - Tattoo Session Structure

00:21:00 - Numbing Cream and Pain Relief

00:23:33 - Anesthesia in Tattooing

00:29:50 - Inspiration and Acknowledgements

Quotes:

"You don't stop until I die like this."

"It's fun for me to see people breaking tradition."

"If you can make another person happy with your art, what more do you need to get up every morning and love what you do?"

"One of my big dreams, tattoo convention, because, you know, in South Korea, tattoo culture really closed and underground culture."

"Your specific artistic aesthetic in the art of tattooing is wildly impressive to me."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Connect with Uncogrim:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/uncogrim

Gianluca, a talented tattoo artist from Italy, shares a profound philosophy about the journey of tattooing that emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and exploration. He believes that artists should never feel they have fully reached their peak; instead, they should always strive to improve and innovate. This mindset is crucial in an ever-evolving art form like tattooing, where trends and techniques are constantly changing.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova connects with Gianluca at the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris. With over 420 artists in attendance, Gianluca stands out for his stunning neo-Japanese and illustrative tattoo work, combining vibrant colors with black and gray elements. Aaron and Gianluca discuss his roots in northeastern Italy near Torino, where he continues to work in his hometown. Listeners can expect insights into Gianluca's artistic process and the vibrant tattoo culture at one of the world's premier tattoo conventions. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of high-quality tattoo artistry!

Chat Highlights:

04:10 First tattoo experience.

05:30 Self-taught tattooing experiences.

11:34 Tattooing as a personal journey.

17:10 Japanese tattooing and innovation.

18:55 Merging tattoo styles creatively.

25:14 Numbing cream for tattoo pain.

29:46 Tattoo machine efficiency debate.

34:06 Tattoo industry changes and challenges.

40:46 Tattoo artist advice.

42:00 Biomechanical Japanese Tattoo.

Quotes:

"I like art and every kind linked to art from when I was a child."

"If you're going to take the time to mark somebody's body, you should probably have done it to yourself first."

"I think the memory's already there. I want something new. Fuck it. Who cares?"

"It's not only the session. It's the journey."

"Maybe my goal is never have a goal."

"If you really want to take your art to the very, very top of the pyramid, you might want to avoid that as long as possible because it does slow you down."

"To see these AI generators that are creating things that are quite interesting to look at, it really hurt my heart a lot because I felt like what I am was taken from me."

"You only have to be yourself and do it in the best way you can."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Connect with Gianluca

IG: https://www.instagram.com/gdc_tattoo

Dakota Weik, a tattoo ethnographer, has embarked on a remarkable journey that transitions him from showcasing tattoo artists around the world through his popular show "Inked Abroad" to becoming a tattoo apprentice in Germany. This shift not only reflects his deep passion for tattooing but also underscores the importance of mastering traditional techniques before advancing to more complex styles.

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova takes us on a journey to the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris, a renowned tattoo convention filled with some of the best tattoo artists in the world. Aaron sits down with Dakota as he shares insights into his mission of discovering and showcasing exceptional tattoo artists globally, highlighting the artistry and significance behind their work. With Dakota's show gaining viral popularity, boasting half a million followers and millions of views, the conversation dives into the evolving landscape of tattoo culture and the challenges of keeping up with emerging talents.

Tune in to learn about the intersection of art and culture in the world of tattooing!

Chat Highlights:

00:00:00 - Apprenticeship B00:01:00 - Inked Abroad

00:02:14 - The Origin of Inked Abroad

00:03:56 - Transition to Tattoo Apprenticeship

00:05:28 - the 3 day Tattoo Sessions

00:07:07 - The Mental Battle of Enduring Large Scale Tattoos

00:08:23 - Documenting the Apprenticeship Journey

00:10:08 - Discovering Artistic Talent Later in Life

00:12:22 - The Support and Pressure from the Tattoo Community

00:14:19 - The Importance of Realism in Tattooing

00:16:11 - The Global Tattoo Community and Travel Restrictions

00:17:28 - Passion for Preserving Tattoo Craft

00:18:53 - The Impact of tattooing on Personal Relationships

00:19:00 - Continuing Inked Abroad and Future Plans

Quotes:

"What if I make documentaries on the world's greatest tattoo artists?"

"You're probably going to usher in another 10,000 tattooers because of it."

"That shows you've got something deep in you. You've got a warrior spirit."

"That's a cool new concept, like learning how to draw realism and using it as a backbone for almost anything else you do."

"I just became so passionate about what I do, learning about it, and then just trying to protect and make sure this craft lives forever."

"Keep bringing me the sickest tattoos in the world."

Stay Connected

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com

Connect with Dakota:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/inkedabroad