In the podcast episode featuring tattoo artist and painter Senju, a fascinating narrative unfolds about the interconnectedness of tattooing and painting, particularly within the context of Japanese art. Senju's journey illustrates how these two forms of expression can influence and inspire one another, creating a cyclical relationship that enriches the artist's work.

Senju's story begins with his initial foray into tattooing, which he describes as a pivotal moment in his life. Growing up in the punk scene in Sweden, he was initially drawn to tattooing through friends who had tattoos. His first experience with a tattoo—a simple abstract eye—sparked a realization of the permanence and beauty of body art. This moment marked the beginning of his journey into the world of tattooing, which he pursued passionately for over three decades.

Senju's journey from tattooing to painting and back again illustrates the interconnectedness of different art forms. His story highlights the importance of cultural exploration and the willingness to adapt and evolve as an artist. By embracing both tattooing and painting, and utilizing modern digital tools, Senju not only honors the rich traditions of Japanese art but also paves the way for future generations of artists to explore the boundaries of creativity.

Tune in for an inspiring exploration of art, creativity, and the interconnectedness of different mediums.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:16 - Gods of Ink Convention 00:02:08 - Meeting Senju 00:03:11 - Tattooing in Sweden 00:05:18 - Early Tattoo Influences 00:07:22 - Apprenticeship and Learning 00:09:08 - Discovering Japanese Culture 00:10:22 - Transition to Painting 00:12:03 - Return to Tattooing 00:14:45 - Painting vs. Tattooing 00:17:06 - Shunga: Japanese Erotic Art 00:19:48 - Japanese Cultural Attitudes 00:22:47 - Kinbaku and Shibari 00:25:42 - Work-Life Balance 00:28:28 - Creative Process and Meditation 00:32:01 - Retirement and Lifelong Creativity 00:35:28 - Digital Art Techniques 00:40:16 - Analog vs. Digital Debate 00:44:51 - Acceptance of Digital Art in the Community

Quotes:

"I started to paint Shunga, which is like Edo period porn... I was painting porn but it looked nice, you know, beautiful."

"Because they didn't have Christianity, there was no taboo around sexuality."

"They adapted to a more Christian way of viewing sexuality in the human body, and this has kind of dragged on into the common, to now, you know, contemporary times."

"Yes, this is more, maybe more, seems nicer than ordinary S&M."

"You're 100% in the now. There is only right now happening."

"We are the outliers. We are the outcasts, supposedly. We're the ones that were, I thought, saying to each other, do whatever you want. Live a happy life. And now we're turning on each other?"

 "In our minds, change is a tiger coming, you know?"

"Because all art forms are just different expressions of the same thing, you know."

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 Senju:

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

The journey into tattooing can often be unconventional, as exemplified by Derek Yip's unique transition from graphic design to becoming a tattoo artist. Derek's story underscores how unexpected opportunities can lead to fulfilling careers in the tattoo industry.

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with Derek at the prestigious Gods of Ink tattoo convention in Frankfurt, Germany. Aaron expresses his excitement about the gathering of some of the world's greatest tattoo artists, setting the stage for an inspiring conversation. Derek shares his journey into the world of tattooing, reflecting on how he discovered his passion for the art form and the travels that shaped his career over the past 13 years.

The episode dives into the creative process and the importance of innovation in the tattoo industry, as both Aaron and Derek share insights into how tattooing has become a significant part of life and explore the creative challenges of bringing something new to the art form. Tune in to discover Derek's inspiring story and the passion that fuels his artistry.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:29 - Derek Yip's Tattoo Journey 00:03:31 - Hard Work and Self-Discipline 00:05:11 - Cultural Stigma of Tattoos in Hong Kong 00:06:00 - Moving to London and Studying Graphic Design 00:06:56 - Getting First Tattoo from Ching 00:07:57 - Becoming Ching's Assistant 00:09:29 - Transition to Tattooing and Self-Teaching 00:10:51 - Moving to Taiwan to Work with Ching 00:12:52 - COVID-19 Impact and Moving to Hong Kong 00:14:06 - Tattoo Culture in Hong Kong 00:19:19 - Educating Clients and Building Trust 00:25:18 - Transition from Coil to Rotary Machines 00:34:49 - Obsession with Tattooing and Future Goals 00:40:41 - Derek's Personal Tattoo Journey with Filip Leu and Ching 00:48:02 - Future Goals: Full Bodysuit in One Design

Quotes:

"I need to really stress myself, work harder, spend every single minute to get better."

 "But it's also your mindset as well. You want to do tattoo for money or you want to do tattoo for the love of it?"

"I want to promote this culture in Hong Kong to let people know, you know, Japanese style, this is what you need to do, you know."

"That's my excuse when I look at my own. 33 years and I look at you, I'm like, how the fuck is this guy got more shit than me?"

"The goal of the artist is to get the thing that's in my brain to you, so someone else can see this thing."

"Tattooing is a form of meditation in its own way because you can't think about the future when you're tattooing."

"To have a craft, to make something that demands all of your attention right now is beautiful."

"Either I end up divorced and my fucking financial life falls apart or I learn to do this."

"It also changes what you know to be possible. That's the big thing I find in life is we limit ourselves based on what we think is possible."

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 Derek:

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

The journey to becoming a skilled tattoo artist is often long and challenging, characterized by years of self-teaching and perseverance, especially in the past when resources and mentorship were scarce.

In a recent podcast episode, Bit Schoenenberger (Sailor Bit) shares his personal experience of starting his tattooing career 36 years ago. He recalls being inspired at a young age by a tattoo magazine brought back from the United States by a friend of his father. This early exposure ignited his passion for tattooing, but the path to becoming a proficient artist was fraught with difficulties.

Host Aaron De La Vedova sits down with Bit in Frankfurt, Germany, at Gods of Ink. With an impressive reputation in the tattoo industry, Bit shares insights from his extensive career, including owning Ethno Tattoo in Lucerne for 22 years before joining forces with Fillip Leu, where he has been working for the past decade. The conversation delves into Bit's journey in tattooing, reflecting on the evolution of the art form and the importance of collaboration and mentorship in the industry. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with history, passion, simplicity, life away from tattooing, and the intricacies of an ever evollving tattoo culture.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:29 - Bit's Tattoo Journey 00:03:27 - Challenges in Early Tattooing 00:04:38 - Learning from Filip Leu 00:05:05 - Self-Taught Tattooing 00:06:30 - Huck Spalding Book and Early Techniques 00:07:28 - Making Ink and Needles 00:10:00 - Coil Machines vs. Modern Pens 00:15:17 - Changes in Tattoo Shop Culture 00:18:50 - Longevity in Tattooing 00:21:23 - Learning Full Body Tattooing 00:27:33 - Color Realism and Japanese Style Tattoos 00:30:34 - Sailing as a Second Passion 00:35:21 - European Approach to Work-Life Balance 00:38:39 - Advice for Aspiring Tattoo Artists 00:43:01 - Marketing and Business in Modern Tattooing 00:46:51 - Old School Tattooing Values

Quotes:

"You entered the dragon's mouth when you pushed that door and you hear this noise and you smell the hash."

"I did my time, so I'm happy with what I did."

 "I call it, we had the full ride, meaning we got in when it was still the old ways, making inks, making needles."

"Leave your ego at the door when you work with this guy."

"For me, it's more scary to be in a big city than in the middle of the ocean."

"You have to be conscious that you can choose your life, right? You don't have to complain. You choose it."

"I was living like a fucking homeless guy, right? I suffered a lot until I can live from tattooing."

"There is like a split between this tattoo world. Now you have that. The old school guys and this new generation."

"The experience to share something with your customer, that will always stay there."

"That influence of Filip and you and all the people attached to him is... so influential and important to what tattooing is today."

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 Sailor:

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

The tattoo community is currently experiencing a significant divide, as highlighted in a recent podcast episode. This divide is marked by a growing trend of judgmental attitudes among some artists, which starkly contrasts with the original ethos of acceptance and individuality that has long been a cornerstone of tattoo culture.

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova connects with renowned tattoo artist James Tex, freshly crowned winner of Ink Master Season 16. Recorded live at the prestigious Gods of Ink tattoo convention in Frankfurt, Germany, Aaron and James dive into the world of illustration-based tattooing, sharing insights on their artistic styles and experiences within the tattoo community. Aaron reflects on the importance of inclusivity in tattoo culture and the challenges posed by judgmental attitudes among some artists. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with passion for tattoo artistry and personal stories from two dedicated professionals in the field, and one that celebrates individuality in the world of tattoos!

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:20 - Online Negativity 00:02:29 - Life After Winning Ink Master 00:02:50 - Experience on Ink Master: Drama and Reality 00:04:33 - James Tex Personal Life and Career Longevity 00:06:10 - Work-Life Balance and Tattooing Schedule 00:08:19 - Physical Health and Tattooing 00:12:25 - Evolution of Tattoo Equipment 00:15:25 - Tattoo Design and Client Interaction 00:21:20 - Social Media's Impact on Tattooing 00:26:48 - Efficiency in Tattooing 00:30:58 - Anxiety and Homogenization in Tattooing 00:36:20 - The Seriousness and Zen of Tattooing 00:40:05 - Anesthesia in Tattooing 00:42:21 - Attitudes Towards Tattooing Methods 00:43:19 - Personal Experience with Anesthesia in Tattooing

Quotes:

"I became a tattooer because I didn't want to be a part of that culture out there that was judging people."

"In the end, I think anybody that does well in life is going to work hard."

"You could probably hot glue a needle to a bar if that thing's going up and down at the right speed and make a fucking fine tattoo with that."

"Great art, I think, is the art of simplification."

"If you want something to last forever, it's permanent on your body, you should take it seriously."

"What other job could you possibly have that you would have that level of connection with thousands of people?"

"It doesn't matter what you do. People are going to judge anyways, right?"

"If you have a passion for it, you should do it, honestly."

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 witth James:

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

The tattoo industry has long relied on traditional methods for creating stencils, typically using carbon copy paper or drawing directly on the skin with markers. However, these methods often present a range of challenges, including difficulties in positioning, the risk of smudging, and limitations in material quality. Enter Standstill, a groundbreaking stencil product that allows tattoo artists to print designs onto a flexible, transparent film, fundamentally transforming the stencil application process.

Aaron Della Vedova explores groundbreaking advancements in tattoo stenciling technology that are revolutionizing the tattooing process with German tattoo artist and creator of Standstill, Philipp Trier.  They discuss the challenges tattoo artists face with traditional stencils, such as inaccuracies and limitations in design placement. With new innovations, artists can now create precise, complex patterns that conform to the body without the usual hassles of cracked paper or misalignments. This episode highlights the potential for efficiency in the tattooing process, promising to save artists valuable time and enhance creativity.

Tune in to discover how these advancements can change the way professional tattoo artists approach their craft!

Chat Breakdown:

[00:01:04] Progress in tattooing technology.

[00:04:00] Innovative tattooing stencil technology.

[00:10:18] Tattooing with polymeric alcohol film.

[00:15:20] Color-coordinated tattoo stencils.

[00:19:11] Stenciling innovations in tattooing.

[00:25:24] Efficient tattoo design application.

[00:28:20] Transfer system for tattooing.

[00:30:07] Client comfort in tattooing.

[00:35:53] Cost-effective tattoo transfer solution.

[00:37:33] Tattoo artist digital assistant app.

[00:42:14] New app for tattoo artists.

Quotes:

"This can be a material where you can project your concept to the skin and tattoo through it without any effort, without any negativity or complication."

"He was able to put this mandala design on this person's knee and I swear you did that in like one minute."

"I limited the moment of when you have to correct your stencil of cleaning it, reproducing it, and doing it again."

 "Proving that we can progress, people. There can be new inventions in tattooing that can be very helpful."

"It's just a much more efficient way to get a design onto a human body, especially when it comes to curves and lumps and bumps and crazy muscles that pop out in different areas."

"I didn't invent it for making the big cash cow here. I invented it first for my own workflow."

"If you're a tattooer and you're looking to make your job and your life easier and making the experience of your client more professional, I think this is a great product."

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 Philipp:

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

Standstill:  https://www.instagram.com/standstill.de

The significance of vulnerability and honesty emerges as a central theme in both personal and professional contexts. Patrick's approach to his work and interactions illustrates how these qualities can foster deeper connections and enhance the overall quality of relationships with tattoo clients, and in our personal lives. 

Host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with tattoo artist Patrick Paul O'Neil, who has quickly made a name for himself in the tattoo community. Aaron shares his admiration for Patrick's impressive work and thoughtful approach to art and life. The conversation dives into Patrick's journey as an artist, the importance of vulnerability and honesty in his creative process, and his recent collaborations, including a potential partnership with fellow artist Fibs. Join them as they explore the deeper meanings behind tattoo art and the connections it fosters within the community. Tune in for an insightful and introspective discussion that highlights the transformative power of art.

Chat Breakdown:

01:34 - Patrick's Journey and Collaboration 02:39 - Patrick's Tattoo Style 05:48 - Honesty and Transparency 06:17 - Vulnerability in the Creative Process 09:00 - Philosophical and Spiritual Influences 12:39 - Facing Mortality and Living Fully 18:02 - Balancing Business and Humanity 25:18 - Connecting Through the Podcast 28:19 - Dropping Prejudices 31:27 - Business Transparency and Fairness 37:10 - Clear Communication in Business 40:09 - Growth and Learning from Business Ownership

Quotes:

"I'm trying to take the spirit not the aesthetic... there are lessons in like the spirit and intention in the work."

"Embodiment is sort of a phase beyond words where an experience, or maybe it's not a singular experience, maybe it just eases into you over time, but you feel like it's a part of you."

"It's almost like God or the creator gives you complete enlightenment upon birth, then through existing on in a physical domain, you slowly lose it."

"I've sacrificed my morals, I've sacrificed time with my children, I've sacrificed my health, I've sacrificed nurturing my relationship with my wife."

"It was kind of like the universe knocking on my door. Like, we have this for you. Do you, you know, it's custom made for you. Do you want it?"

"I can almost guarantee you, you're going to grow. But I need you to understand the reason you're going to grow is because this shop is profitable."

"There's no need for anger or resentment. There really isn't."

"Money can buy freedom. Money can buy creativity. Money can buy space to explore these things."

"Ultimately, I believe we exude a frequency, a signature. And I think that that signature attracts that same signature closer to you."

"I just want to create love and friendship and beauty and art, and I can't seem to escape these type of people in my life."

"As soon as you can see the wound, from that day forward, it starts to heal."

"The best part about getting tattooed has nothing to do with the tattoo. It's more so like the transformation that kind of goes through having to sit through that process."

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 witth Patrick:

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

A Conversation with Leland Gomez on Tradition and Innovation

Tattooing, particularly Polynesian tattooing, has undergone significant evolution over the years, reflecting a harmonious blend of respect for traditional practices and the incorporation of contemporary styles and techniques. This evolution is not merely a trend but a response to the changing cultural landscape and the need for artistic expression that resonates with modern sensibilities.

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova delves into the rich Polynesian history and evolution of tattooing as an art form witth guest Leland Gomez. Leland reflects on his own experience with old-school apprenticeship, sharing insights about the hands-on skills he learned, such as scrubbing tubes and tuning coil machines. They discuss the cultural significance of tattoos across various regions, highlighting how styles are deeply rooted in their respective cultures—from the traditional tattoos of Samoa and Africa to the unique genre of Japanese tattoos. This episode emphasizes the transformative power of tattooing and its ongoing evolution as a global art form, showcasing the beauty and importance of this ancient practice.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:44 -Tattooing and Its Cultural Significance 00:02:45 - Contemporary Polynesian Tattooing 00:05:00 - Challenges of Convention Tattooing 00:07:24 - Leland's Artistic Journey and Leap of Faith 00:10:42 - Old-School Apprenticeship Experiences 00:12:56 - Significance of Polynesian Tattooing 00:14:59 - Family Patterns and Cultural Revival 00:16:39 - Cultural Differences in Tattooing 00:17:28 - Wearing Culture on Skin 00:20:22 - Mixing Tattoo Styles: Polynesian and Ornamental 00:22:32 - Renaissance of Ornamental Tattooing 00:27:04 - Teaching as the Final Step in Mastery 00:28:05 - Giving Back to the Next Generation

Quotes:

"Without tradition, without the history of where everything came from, I wouldn't be who I am today."

"We get to wear our inside out when we wear our Polynesian culture on our skin."

"How is anything going to get better if you stay in the same place?"

"I think there's a cultural need as the world evolves and technology just rams forward into our existence, that there is this calling to humanity for certain people to go back to the roots."

"Teaching is sort of that, that last part of a master's journey. And it's also the part where you give back to something that's given you so much."

"Maybe my grandkids can see it and be like, hey man, my pops, my papa did that."

Connect with Leland: 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/inked_leland13

Connect with Aaron:⁠  

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

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

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

In the realms of tattooing and art, the environment in which an artist operates is pivotal to their development and growth. As discussed in the podcast episode, surrounding oneself with skilled artists can significantly enhance one’s ability to absorb knowledge and overcome subconscious limitations.

In this episode of 'Chats and Tatts,' host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with a talented tattoo artist 'Cheeseburger' known for his impressive color realism and surrealism work, infused with elements of anime. Aaron, after discovering Cheese's artistry, left him amazed by the hard work and skill displayed in the tattoos. The discussion delves into the artist's journey, balancing family life with his craft while working at Pacific Soul Tattoo in Honolulu, Hawaii. Aaron shares insights on how exposure to talented peers can break down subconscious limitations in art, inspiring creativity and growth.

Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with artistic passion and the realities of being a family man in the tattoo industry.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:32 - Absorbing Tattoo Knowledge

00:03:29 - Influence of Hawaiian Tattoo Culture

00:04:20 - Challenges of Color Realism on Dark Skin

00:05:10 - Evolution of Cheese's Tattoo Style

00:06:01 - Learning from Nikko Hurtado 

00:08:10 - Hard Work vs. Talent in Tattooing

00:09:08 - The Physical and Mental Demands of Tattooing

00:11:02 - The Intimacy of Tattooing

00:12:48 - Energy Exchange in Tattooing

00:14:08 - Balancing Health, Family, and Work

00:19:00 - The Role of Social Media in Tattooing

00:19:52 - Passion and Challenges in Tattooing

00:20:07 - Economic Impact on Tattoo Industry

00:21:18 - Adapting to Changes in the Tattoo Industry

00:23:36 - Fears and Motivations for Tattoo Artists

Quotes:

"You realize they're human, they're not gods, they're not magicians, they're just regular people like you, and somehow he's doing that, or she's doing that, so it just, without even knowing it, it clicks into your mind that, then I can do that."

"The intimacy, I think right off the bat, the first thing that comes to my mind is the intimacy because you're sharing this. It's a whole experience."

"Tattoo clients that collect at a larger level. They're really artsy people. They really are."

"My family, that's what drives me first."

"I love tattooing. I know it can kill me at the end. I still love doing it."

"Tattooing is my passion and my poison."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Cheeseburger: 

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

Connect with Aaron:⁠  

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

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

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

Guest Anthony Prince shares his proufound life experiences, which powerfully illustrate that past circumstances do not define our future and who we chosse to be. Growing up in a tumultuous environment, Anthony faced numerous hardships, including a chaotic, militant foster-family life that often resembled a criminal organization rather than a supportive environment. His story highlights how circumstances beyond one's control can lead individuals down difficult paths, often resulting in choices that may seem incomprehensible to outsiders.

Prince shares an intriguing personal story about his first day in prison and the pressure to demonstrate his tattooing skills using a prison-made machine. The narrative delves into the unique dynamics of prison life, habits of inmates, and the pressure to prove oneself. Listeners will gain insight into the challenges and unexpected situations faced in such an environment, and showcases Prince's vulnerability and resilience as he naavigated post-prison life andd a massively successful tattoong career.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:12 - First Day in Prison and Tattoo Pressure 00:05:01 - Anthony Prince's Early Life 00:08:33 - Life in Foster Care and Crime Mob 00:10:54 - Petty Crimes and Organized Schemes 00:14:22 - Abuse and Running Away 00:17:16 - First Imprisonment and Sentencing 00:19:08 - Refusing to Snitch and Accepting Prison 00:21:13 - Sentencing and Legal Struggles 00:23:12 - Extended Prison Time and Appeals 00:26:02 - Discovering Artistic Talent in Prison 00:27:09 - First Tattoo Experience in Prison 00:32:05 - Learning and Improving Tattoo Skills 00:34:23 - Six Years in Solitary Confinement 00:36:31 - Returning to General Population and Tattooing 00:38:51 - Meeting Future Wife Ashland 00:42:03 - Writing Letters and Building a Relationship

Quotes:

"To be a part of that family, it was like being a part of a gang."

"A lot of people are cool with prison artists, but a lot of people don't care about them."

"When you have enough time, to kind of sober up, not from drugs and alcohol, but just to straighten up."

"If your body breaks down, your health breaks down, your marriage breaks down, all this work you've been putting in all this time, it's not for nothing, but it's a lot of wasted effort."

"Drinking water and doing 10,000 steps a day turned a stage three kidney disease to completely nothing."

"I told myself it's going to be 10 years in February out of prison. I told myself 10 years hard work, and then when we get there, then I'll go ahead and relax."

"Revolution Ink settles into the skin and the skin looks like normal skin again."

"I don't trust our government, to be honest."

"I listen carefully now because I've seen the times when I didn't listen, it was giving me hints."

"In that short of time, how did you get this good? And now I know you just worked twice as much as everybody else."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Prince: 

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

Connect with Aaron:⁠  

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

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

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