Creating a comfortable and empathetic environment for clients during tattoo sessions is essential for enhancing their overall experience and effectively managing pain. In a recent podcast episode featuring tattoo artist Jen Tonic, several strategies were discussed to achieve this goal.

Host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes Jen from Lüneburg, Germany. Jen's unique style blends neo-traditional and large-format decorative elements with a touch of art-nouveau and nature themes, creating stunning pieces that reflect her artistic vision. As the conversation unfolds, Aaron and Jen discuss the nuances of her tattooing process, the importance of creating a comfortable environment for clients, and the seasonal changes in her garden as winter approaches in northern Germany. Tune in for an engaging discussion about art, creativity, and the tattooing process that includes a cozy atmosphere that Jen ensures for her clients.

Listeners are encouraged to check out Jen's captivating work on Instagram (@jentonic) while enjoying this insightful discussion about art, creativity, and the tattooing experience.

Chat Highlights:

[00:03:01] Early influences in art.

[00:04:44] Finding a tattoo apprenticeship.

[00:09:04] Being a woman in tattooing.

[00:18:27] Pain management during tattoo sessions.

[00:19:20] Client comfort during tattooing.

[00:30:10] Finding balance in tattooing.

[00:32:46] Expressing art through looseness.

[00:39:37] Tattoo trends in modern culture.

[00:42:01] Online avatars and self-expression.

[00:46:14] AI's impact on art.

[00:50:11] Analog art in a digital age.

[00:56:48] Passion for tattooing.

[00:57:45] Tattoo career dedication.

Quotes:

"I really want him to lay down be like oh this is actually kind of nice and comfy so okay like maybe I can sit through this."

"I always wanted to have my own style... I want it to be recognizable."

"I almost didn't get the apprenticeship because there was one guy in the shop who didn't want a woman in the shop."

"I think the big thing there is with Instagram, and just the internet in general, it's kind of like evens the playing field."

"These little creature comforts send a message and the message is I'm not here to hurt you. I just want to make beautiful art with you."

"I've realized that it's okay to also have other things going on that basically give me more energy so I don't burn out on my job as a tattooer."

"Tattooing does not only exist within perfect lines, I think."

"I suspect this, and Scott Campbell, really smart tattooer from Los Angeles, brought this up to me, and I think he's right: people can express themselves now through their social content."

"I don't think anyone's going to end up with a thriving tattoo career that doesn't give it everything they've got in those early years."

Stay Connected:

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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 Jen:

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

Sal Leon has developed a niche in traditional tattooing with an erotic gay flair, setting him apart from other artists in San Diego. This distinctiveness not only attracts a loyal client base but also fosters a sense of community among those who resonate with that particular style.

Sal shares his journey through the tattooing world, highlighting the unique intersection of his identity as a gay man and his artistic expression through traditional tattooing with an erotic flair. This discussion with host Aaron Della Vedova opens up a broader conversation about the evolution of tattooing, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community, and the importance of community support in navigating the challenges of the industry.

The conversation celebrates individuality, creativity, and the vibrant community of artists dedicated to expressing their authentic voices. Join us for an inspiring exploration of art, creativity, and the tattoo culture that embraces the weird and different!

Chat Highlights:

00:00:00 - The Importance of Unique Styles in Tattooing 00:00:51 - Oversaturation in the Tattoo Industry 00:03:10 - Sal's Background and Coming Out Story 00:06:20 - Meeting His Husband and Early Career 00:10:42 - Transition to Piercing 00:12:00 - The Leather Community Explained 00:14:16 - Leather Community and Tattooing 00:19:11 - Incorporating Male Figures in Traditional Tattoos 00:23:02 - Differences in Gay and Queer Tattoo Scenes 00:25:03 - Erotic Themes in Tattoos 00:30:00 - What Makes a Great Tattoo 00:36:29 - Changes in the Tattoo Industry 00:41:16 - Supporting Local Community 00:45:42 - AI and Tattoo Art

Quotes:

"Leather community, I think it's more for like the misfits of the queer community."

"I think, in hindsight, it's good going through experiences like that. Those shitty experiences to finally, when you get to a nice point, to really appreciate it."

"Getting tattooed in a big way is a way to express... it's just different people in different walks of life expressing their particular walk of life through collecting a tattoo."

"A great tattoo is a great experience."

"If you're an artist out there, or even a younger artist that's coming into this, man, I would say draw and create with your own mind and your own hand as much as possible."

"I see this slipping away of what makes us human, like this, sitting here talking to you, getting to know you one-on-one, face-to-face."

"I also believe that we're most likely in a simulation that reflects our deepest thoughts about reality."

Stay Connected:

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 Sal:

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

Freddy Jay's journey into tattooing is a captivating story of unexpected beginnings and unwavering commitment. At the age of 19, he found himself at a crossroads in life, having once aspired to become a pilot due to his love for surfing and the freedom it represented. However, as he matured, he realized that the life of a pilot was not meant for him. Instead, he began to explore his creative side, which ultimately led him to the world of tattooing.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova returns to his home studio, bringing a vibrant tribal energy to the conversation. Joined by Freddy, the duo explores the fascinating spiritual practices of ancient civilizations, focusing on the Mayans and Aztecs. Aaron shares his unique experience of micro-dosing mushrooms to enhance the episode's vibe, drawing parallels between the Mayans' pursuit of knowledge and intellect through plant medicine and the more aggressive, corporate nature of the Aztecs. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that delves into the spiritual connections of the past and their significance in understanding our own artistic and spiritual journeys.

Chat Highlights:

[00:01:09] Aztec and Mayan energy.

[00:04:01] Artistic journey through tattooing.

[00:09:08] Polynesian tattoo inspiration.

[00:12:44] Mentorship in the tattoo industry.

[00:15:38] Tattoo apprenticeship challenges.

[00:22:17] Different times of tattooing culture.

[00:24:39] Tattooing as a personal journey.

[00:28:01] Cultural influences in tattooing.

[00:30:40] Toltec traditions and philosophy.

[00:34:45] Mayan head shaping practices.

[00:38:16] Celebration of physical differences.

[00:42:27] Ancient civilizations and new discoveries.

[00:46:40] Travel and cultural inspiration.

[00:52:01] Immersing in Mexican culture.

[00:54:44] Cultural sensitivity in tattooing.

[00:59:29] Cultural fusion in art.

[01:01:47] Adventure in tattooing.

Quotes:

"I micro-dosed a healthy little portion of mushrooms in my coffee today for this episode."

"I mean I barely know how to tattoo I fucking scratched this Indian into this guy's chest."

"I think you grow under pressure, but not under fear, if I should put it into those words."

"Everything is meant to be in some funny way."

"You have to get more into your intuitive self and feel your way through life versus relying on."

"You're left with a very small human population and most likely the smart ones, the ones that know how to build pyramids, they're probably the first ones to die."

"If you really want to do something that's different from where you are, you need to seek the place, you need to seek the people, you need to seek the culture."

"We're all one, we're all one thing, you know, we all are human, we all should love and care for one another."

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 Freddyi:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/freddyjay108

The belief in separation is a fundamental issue that contributes to ignorance and suffering. Recognizing our interconnectedness could lead to a more harmonious existence. This idea is deeply explored in the podcast episode featuring host Aaron Della Vedova and guest Dillon Forte, who discuss the implications of viewing reality through the lens of separation versus interconnectedness.

Dillon is a renowned tattoo artist located in Austin, TX, and is credited with helping to launch the geometric tattoo movement in the U.S. in the early 2010s. The conversation blends art, spirituality, and the transformative power of tattoos, making for an engaging and thought-provoking episode for lovers of both art and deeper contemplation.

Whether you're an art lover, a tattoo enthusiast, or someone intrigued by the nature of reality, this episode promises engaging conversations and thought-provoking ideas.

Chat Highlights:

[00:03:01] Measurement of reality through geometry.

[00:05:44] Ancient origins of the flower..

[00:12:25] Technology versus nature awakening.

[00:21:09] Belief in inseparability from nature.

[00:31:45] Maya, the Grand Illusion.

[00:37:36] Simulation theory as illusion.

[00:44:46] AI's impact on humanity.

[00:54:17] Tattoo robots and human artistry.

[01:02:05] Strategic relocation for safety.

[01:12:02] Living an honest life.

[01:19:12] Experimental tattooing techniques.

[01:24:50] Community support in tattoo culture.

[01:27:38] Art of giving and receiving.

[01:30:56] Tattooing in Austin, Texas.

Quotes:

"I think what would save the world would be simply our release of the false belief of separation."

"In all of nature, there is a fundamental order, a structure behind all of it."

"Is that us offloading consciousness into the thing that we can travel the universe with because we can't do it in bodies like this?"

"We don't need additives. We need to remove what's unnecessary, not just keep filling."

"I think the false belief of inanimate separateness is the root of ignorance, which is the root of suffering."

"Maya the Grand Illusion, we have been talking about this, we are aware of this, not new. Reality being an illusion. We know it's an illusion."

"The big bang is the breath of Brahma."

"It's definitely a paradigm shift, and maybe not bad. Maybe we're supposed to have machines doing stuff for us so we can make music and write poetry and follow our passions and our dreams."

"Prepared as much as anyone can be, mentally, physically, spiritually, as much as you can be. And then after that, drop the fear and just live."

"If your heart is heavier than the feather, your heart is fed to the crocodile deity, devoured for eternity in all damnation."

"If you focus on love, light, truth, all the good stuff, we shall persevere."

"You've got to start looking out there at the people that are getting tattooed, and you've got to find a way to find out what their needs are, what they want, and find a way to fill it."

Stay Connected:

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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 Dillon:

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

Tebori tattooing, a traditional Japanese hand-poked method, is more than just a technique; it embodies a philosophy that emphasizes a profound human connection and energy transfer between the tattoo artist and the client. Practiced for thousands of years, this method involves using a long stick with needles attached to the end, allowing the artist to create tattoos without the aid of machines. This simplicity lies at the heart of the Tebori experience, fostering a unique and intimate atmosphere during the tattooing process, and our guest today is one of the masters of this craft.

In this episode of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes Rueben "Horikei" Kayden, a seasoned tattoo artist with 26 years of experience, to discuss the evolution of tattooing. The conversation delves into the past, present, and future of the industry, exploring how it has rapidly transformed over the years. The guest shares valuable insights, particularly about tabori tattooing, the traditional Japanese hand-poked method that has been practiced for thousands of years. Aaron and his guest reflect on the significance of this ancient technique in contrast to modern tattooing practices, setting the stage for a deep dive into the art and culture of tattooing.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that highlights the artistry and craftsmanship behind tattoos.

Chat Highlights:

[00:01:06] Future of tattooing.

[00:06:17] Tattooing in Japan.

[00:10:28] Energy transfer in tattooing.

[00:17:09] Spirituality in craftsmanship.

[00:31:56] Tabori technique challenges.

[00:36:08] Power of simplicity in tattoos.

[00:46:10] Tattoo pain management techniques.

[00:49:23] Tattooing under anesthesia discussion.

[00:58:19] Tattoo past, present, and future.

[01:01:22] The beauty of impermanence.

[01:05:04] Future of handmade artistry.

[01:07:19] Tattooing as a lifestyle choice.

[01:12:00] Traditional Japanese tattooing.

Quotes:

"We're tattooers, man. We're not in the business of being people's, you know, helping them be more personally responsible with their lives." -Aaron

"It's a human to human contact. There's no electrons, there's no machine, there's no rotary, there's no cartridge, there's no nothing. It's simplicity at its best, right? It's art made by humans for humans." -Horikei

"You're like a horse with blinders on. You're just like the smell, you know, smell, sight, emotions, all of it's all interconnected." -Horikei

"I just know it's happening and it's beautiful and it's really become probably the thing I'm most happy about to have spent my life doing this art form." -Aaron

"Tebori is a human rhythm... it rocks you to sleep." -Horikei

"It was more dangerous to drive the fucking car than it was to go in under anesthesia." -Aaron

"We're tattooers, man. We're not in the business of being people's, you know, helping them be more personally responsible with their lives." -Aaron

"Comparison is the thief of all joy, man, for sure." -Horikei

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 Horikei:

IG:https://www.instagram.com/horikei617/

Inspiration for creativity often arises from active engagement rather than a passive search for it. This concept is vividly illustrated in the conversation between host Aaron Della Vedova his guest Fior Lorett, a seasoned tattoo artist. Fiori emphasizes that her creative process is deeply intertwined with her daily artistic practice. She states, "the more I do, the more inspired I may be," highlighting that involvement in the creative process itself can ignite new ideas and motivation.

Fiori shares insights into her unique neo-traditional style, which features an ornamental flair, and discusses her artistic journey and the influences that shape her work. The conversation explores the pressures of the creative process and the importance of finding joy in one's craft. Tune in to discover what it takes to maintain a prolific career in tattoo artistry and the personal experiences that drive Fiori's creative expression. Don't forget to check out her stunning artwork on Instagram @fiori_lorett

Chat Highlights:

00:01:26 - Fiori's Tattoo Style

00:02:46 - Early Life and Family Background

00:05:05 - It All Started with Henna

00:07:04 - First Encounter with Tattooing

00:12:00 - Opening a Shop at 15

00:18:05 - Travel and Uncomfortableness as Inspiration

00:28:06 - Gypsy Lifestyle and Settling Down

00:32:47 - Challenges for Women in Tattooing

00:43:10 - What Makes a Great Tattoo

00:46:07 - Current Tattoo Trends and Future Predictions

00:50:37 - Self-Esteem Through Tattooing.

00:58:33 - You Have to Be All In as a Tattoo Artist

Quotes:

"I tell myself every day that I chose this, this work chose me, and I do it because it's fun."

"I work to have inspiration. And the more I do, the more inspired I may be."

"I need to get out there and be uncomfortable."

"The act of doing it provides the inspiration. Versus find inspiration so I can do it."

"Now you get a young person that their expression to the world is their online presence."

"It's almost like sometimes I see that people are doing tattoos for people that don't like tattoos."

"If you're not all in, if you're not really passionate and talented... You're probably not even going to make a living."

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 Fiori::

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

In this episode, host Aaron Della Vedova delves into the importance of creating art for oneself rather than for external approval, highlighting the personal connection and significance behind each piece of work. The discussion with New Zealand-based tattoo artist Matt Jordan emphasizes the value of handmade artistry in an increasingly digital world, celebrating the unique and analog nature of tattooing. Matt is a phenomenal tattoo artist whose work has left a lasting impression on many.

"What are you going to do to separate yourself? What are you going to do so that you can look at your work and be like, yeah, that's fucking, I love that."

This statement underscores the idea that true satisfaction in art comes from creating something meaningful to the artist. When artists focus on their own beliefs and values, they produce work that reflects their unique perspectives, resulting in a sense of pride and ownership.

Tune in for a deep dive into the passion and dedication that fuels the tattooing craft, and discover how personal expression can lead to a renaissance in creativity.

Chat Highlights:

[00:01:05] Art made by hand.

[00:04:18] Tattooing legacy and personal journey.

[00:09:01] Passion for tattooing journey.

[00:15:54] Learning through mentorship moments.

[00:24:58] Learning how to refine art.

[00:29:05] Quitting tattooing for painting.

[00:40:00] Creative transition in tattooing.

[00:44:25] Tattoos as fine art.

[00:50:00] Tattoo exhibition and photography.

[01:03:47] Family-infused tattoo experience.

[01:09:37] Tattooing as a rite of passage.

[01:13:00] Pushing creative boundaries in tattooing.

Quotes:

"I think if more people can realize that, like this is our renaissance, you know?"

"I wanted to feel like a real artist, you know, because people were like, oh, you know, it's just tattoos."

"Art was the ability to create something novel, to use your imagination to create something that maybe people haven't seen before."

"I'm just doing it. I'm just actually fucking putting my phone down and trying."

"You can only give people what you have. If you're not inspired, you're not going to inspire anybody, you know?"

"I just fucking ran with it and it snowballed and changed over the past decade."

"If you treat it anything less than that, you need to fucking re-evaluate."

"My goal is like, is how far can I push this? What's possible? And I wanna see how far I can go."

Stay Connect

ed:

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 Matt:

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

The journey of healing and transformation can be catalyzed by profound life experiences, such as accidents, which compel individuals to confront their past and redefine their identity. This theme is vividly illustrated in the story of Greyson Savo, who endured a life-altering accident that not only changed his physical state but also prompted deep introspection and a transformation of his identity, including the incredible covering of his scars by tattoo artist Patrick Sweeney ( https://www.instagram.com/patricksweeneyart ).

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova explores the multifaceted meanings of tattoos, drawing on over 30 years of experience in the tattoo industry. He reflects on the deeper significance of tattoos beyond their aesthetic value, emphasizing that, in the grand scheme of life, the relationships and memories we create hold far greater importance.

Tune in for insights on the emotional and personal connections people have with their tattoos, and how these body art forms can encapsulate significant moments in our lives.

Chat Highlights:

00:00:00 - Thoughts on Tattoos

00:05:30 - What Happened to Greyson Savo?

00:06:39 - The Defining Accident

00:10:35 - Hospital and Rehabilitation Journey

00:18:38 - Near-Death Experience and Spiritual Awakening

00:23:07 - Pre-Accident Beliefs and Spirituality

00:26:08 - Post-Accident Transformation

00:30:01 - The Significance of the Dragon Tattoo

00:36:29 - Processing Pain Through Tattooing

00:40:34 - Life's Lessons and Challenges

00:43:48 - Helping Others Through Shared Experience

Quotes:

"Trust me, when you're taking your last breath, you will not be thinking about tattoos that are on your body."

"What I always say when I get to a point where I think I have the right decision at hand is fuck it."

"I was ejected from a convertible going 110 miles an hour on the 99 freeway in the midst of the night."

"I asked my mom in the hospital, I'm hardly talking, and I asked her for a shot of tequila."

"If I don't know something and I'm not going to trust that it's going to be better for me than what my limited imagination can come up with, then I'm going to be afraid."

"It's a moral compass that most people call God."

"I'm alive. And he hugged me and he just hugged me tight. And he said, I've been waiting for this to happen. Welcome home, son."

"Life is the art of surrender."

"Life finally was like, okay, we're going to send you a very, very big wake up call, a clear picture, a very clear picture."

"We don't have to go through shit alone. We're not supposed to, right?"

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 Greyson:

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

#tattooartist #healing #transformation

The evolution of tattooing from a taboo, underground culture to a widely accepted art form has significantly transformed the industry's dynamics, impacting both artists and clients in various ways. In the early days of tattooing, particularly in the 1990s, the culture was largely underground and associated with rebellion.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova takes a unique approach by conducting the first-ever remote podcast on the show, reaching out to guests who are unable to join in person. He welcomes tattoo artist Heather McLean, known on Instagram as Hyphaea, who specializes in large-format, decorative, illustrative black and gray tattoos. Aaron encourages listeners to check out Heather's stunning work in real-time while they listen. The conversation dives into the intricacies of tattoo artistry, the creative process, and the importance of maintaining a strong sense of self in the industry, despite external opinions.

The conversation also touches on the challenges and perceptions of women in the tattoo industry. Tune in for an engaging discussion that fuses creativity and personal insights that celebrate artistic expression and individuality.

Chat Breakdown:

03:37 Tattoo inspiration from grandpa.

10:01 Women in the tattooing industry.

15:18 Tattoo culture's underground origins.

19:52 Judgment among tattoo artists.

39:34 Emotional connection through tattooing.

49:03 Tattoo energy and emotional impact.

1:04:54 Nature as a spiritual escape.

01:10:19 Human perspective vs. AI creativity.

1:25:44 Nature conservation and personal responsibility.

Quotes:

"In 1999, a girl saying, I'm going to become a tattoo artist. She was like, that's the equivalent of saying I'm going to run away and join the circus."

"Being professional is great, but being fake is not something that I really have enjoyed ever."

"I have a goal, I'm here, I'm getting to here, either you're helping me get there or you're in the way."

"No one's asking me for my fucking opinion and I don't want to engage in a troll war online."

"Tattooing has turned from a thing where it used to be more about ego and now it's more about service."

"I've got a lot of extra energy today to share, because I'm feeling great. Your cup is very empty, and I swear to that process, they almost leave more filled up."

"I think it's okay to be like, yes, I'm a tattooer, but I'm also holding space for you when this difficult thing is happening."

"It's like being haunted almost. There are ghosts to every experience."

"The most enlightened people... just want to help. It's just completely egoless at that point."

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 Hyphaea:

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

The evolution of tattooing has been profoundly shaped by artistic trends and public perception, particularly in recent years. As discussed in the podcast episode featuring one of the world's most prolific and respected tattoo artists, Filip Leu, there has been a significant shift towards realism in tattoo art, which has gained popularity among both artists and clients.

Aaron Della Vedova and Filip reflect on their early careers, noting that while there were many skilled tattoo artists, the quality of art varied widely, with a considerable number of less experienced practitioners. Today, however, the standards have risen dramatically, making it increasingly challenging for newcomers to distinguish themselves.

In this episode, sponsored by Bishop Tattoo Supply ( https://bishoptattoosupply.com/ ), we dive into Filip's inspiring journey, a groundbreaking figure in the tattoo world known for his large-format body suits. Aaron also shares a personal reflection on how discovering Filip's work transformed his approach to tattooing, shifting from traditional small designs to ambitious, expansive compositions that beautifully adorn the human body. The episode highlights Filip's influence on artists and enthusiasts alike, celebrating his role as a hero in the tattoo community. Additionally, the host discusses the Tattoo Heritage Project, founded by Good Time Charlie, which is dedicated to preserving American tattoo history. Listeners are encouraged to explore the project's initiatives, including a traveling tattoo museum and the newly debuted film "Dare to Dream."

Tune in for an episode filled with passion, inspiration, and a deep appreciation for the art of tattooing.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:15 - Tattoo Heritage Project

00:03:06 - Art Techniques and Body Drawing

00:04:06 - Filip Leu's Tattooing Career and Workload

00:07:00 - Tattooing Techniques and Longevity

00:09:15 - Physical Challenges in Tattooing

00:11:25 - Realism in Tattooing and Its Longevity

00:16:02 - Challenges for New Tattoo Artists

00:20:01 - The Meaning and Motivation Behind Tattoos

00:23:16 - Facial Tattoos and Extreme Body Modifications

00:26:08 - Ignorant Style Tattoos and Full Black Arms

00:30:00 - Spiritual and Philosophical Reflections on Tattooing

00:37:00 - Robotics and the Future of Tattooing

00:39:31 - DNA and Human Progress

00:44:01 - Lessons from DMT and Life Reflections

00:54:03 - Life-changing experience in Varanasi.

01:02:30 - Energy exchange in tattooing.

01:21:06 - Tattoo machine technology and preferences.

Quotes:

"What's the colour that heals the fastest? And I didn't get it right, because the answer is skin."

"Tattooing seems to me at this phase as this process of elimination almost. It's like we're spending our whole careers figuring out what we didn't need to do."

"The public is steering where tattooing is going."

"I was taken aback that I didn't have, until now, The fucking balls to do that to somebody's body, because it's so individual, so distinct, such a statement, artistically speaking."

"It's all a way for me to, or a person to say, look at me. I'm a unique individual. I'm not just a number. I'm different."

"That's the other side of tattooing, the big fuck you."

"What's the point of worrying about shit you can't fucking change or control?"

"I refuse to feel guilty for the way I want to waste my life. It's my life to waste."

"I guess for each person would have to answer that question. I'm thinking about myself right now and being honest enough to admit a lot of it, I think it's my ego."

"I walked out of that afternoon like, oh my god, I'm a meat puppet. I'm a meat bag. Like, wow, this is not permanent."

"A very sensitive art student would never have made it. He couldn't survive that environment."

"I went back and cried in the hotel that night, told my mom I couldn't go back the next day, because I realized how shit I was."

"It's when it goes all wrong, right, it's all pear-shaped, and suddenly you realize just what a fucked up, job it is. It's so hard."

"Let go of all these dragons and demons and skulls and samurais and all this shit and let's just get into the beauty of decorating."

"You'll fucking blow a line out, like, on a shin bone or something, like, you know, quickly."

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