Chats & Tatts

Authenticity and passion in tattooing are essential for long-term fulfillment and success, especially in today's saturated market. In a recent podcast episode, Aimee Cornwell emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and drawing inspiration from what genuinely excites the artist. This approach not only keeps the work enjoyable but also allows for the creation of unique pieces that reflect the artist's essence.

In this episode, host Aaron Della Vedova explores Aimee's artistic journey, who shares her unexpected entry into the world of tattooing via her father, Mark Cornwell. Initially aspiring to be a tattoo artist but lacking an apprenticeship, Aimee's talent was discovered when a local studio reached out to her after seeing her drawings on Facebook. The conversation takes place at the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris, where Aimee discusses her unique approach to tattooing, particularly her captivating portraits of women. Her distinct energy and spirit that she brings to her tattoos stands out among the best.

Join us for an inspiring discussion about art, passion, and the beauty of tattoo culture.

[00:02:03] Second-generation tattoo artist.

[00:07:37] Wild childhood in tattoo culture.

[00:09:15] Early tattoo design inspirations.

[00:12:50] Tattoo culture and family dynamics.

[00:16:02] Tattooing as destiny.

[00:21:17] Nature's influence on creativity.

[00:25:58] The uncertainty of scientific knowledge.

[00:29:17] Tattoo longevity and color theory.

[00:34:04] Korean tattoo culture and influence.

[00:37:08] Passion in tattooing.

[00:39:05] Standing out as a tattoo artist.

[00:42:05] Edible Amanitas mushrooms.

Quotes:

"I literally just grew up in the tattooing world, like completely."

"That's a thing with some people. They burn too bright sometimes."

"It just turned me into this world of nature that I'm just so fascinated. It's obviously so vast and never ending."

"The drawing and the outline, maybe the colors could totally fade over time anyway, but as long as that is, the foundation is there, that's the most important."

"I will fucking die. I will fucking do the best tattoo ever or die."

"I think it is just important to just really love everything you're doing and just be true to yourself."

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 Aimee:

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

The evolution of tattooing has been profoundly shaped by social media, which has both broadened exposure for artists and contributed to the homogenization of styles within the industry.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes a special guest, Justin Weathreholtz, a talented tattoo artist from New York known for his incredible work that embodies the spirit of traditional Americana and Japanese styles. Aaron reflects on his own journey in the tattoo industry, while diving into Justin's journey in tattooing and music, and his time at Kings Avenue Tattoo in New York City, owned by Mike Rubendall. The conversation delves into the artistry behind tattoos, the unique vibe of the tattoo community, and how personal experiences shape an artist's work. Listeners can expect to hear about the intersection of tattooing and music, as well as insights into living a creative life beyond the tattoo chair. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that celebrates the passion and artistry of tattoo culture!

Chat Highlights:

[00:02:35] Freedom in lifestyle choices.

[00:05:15] Single life in your 40s.

[00:06:48] Relationships and career balance.

[00:10:11] Goals without attachment.

[00:17:10] Intuition and decision-making.

[00:27:41] Japanese tattoo influences in New York.

[00:37:17] Homogenization of tattooing.

[00:49:15] The artist's financial dilemma.

[00:58:18] AI in creative arts.

[01:08:47] Human connection versus AI creativity.

[01:24:01] Large format tattooing evolution.

[01:28:40] Color realism in tattooing.

[01:39:37] Authenticity in tattoo artistry.

[01:49:17] Brushing aside risk.

Quotes:

"No one in the world likes a guy in his 40s that single. It's the most unpopular thing. They hate it."

"You got to kind of be let the good and the bad things kind of happen equally and move just move through you."

"You can just let go of that attachment and allow it to show up or not show up."

"Talent is one of the best things because it's sprinkled randomly across the planet."

"Those are the years where you got lucky because you know, there's just a ton of places you could have landed that were wild and violent and shitty."

"I wonder if there'll be a subclass of people that are just like, no, we wait and we collect real things from real people that become more elevated in value."

"Do you want to connect with a fucking machine? I don't."

"We're all after that spirit of playfulness, that lack of worry, that lack of trepidation and concern about what others think."

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 Justin:

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

The evolution of tattooing is a captivating journey that showcases a delicate balance between traditional techniques and modern innovations. Throughout the podcast episode, four icons of the tattoo wrold, Filip Leu, Kari Barba, Luke Atkinson, and Junii Diamond engage in a thoughtful discussion with host Aaron Della Vedova about how tattooing has transformed over the years while still honoring its roots.

Aaron sits down with this group of tattoo legends at the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris, where they all took the stage as the shows judges. The conversation explores the rich history of tattooing, particularly the enduring nature of traditional styles like Japanese and old school tattoos, which continue to thrive despite contemporary adaptations. The group discusses their personal experiences, the evolution of tattoo art, and the importance of preserving traditional techniques while embracing innovation. With a combined wealth of knowledge spanning nearly 200 years, they all share insights and stories that celebrate the artistry and cultural significance of tattoos.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that honors the past while looking towards the future of tattoo culture.

Chat Highlights:

[00:00:20] Traditional vs. modern tattooing.

[00:06:21] Tattoo conventions and experiences.

[00:10:27] Judging tattoo artistry collaboratively.

[00:15:54] Design harmony in tattoo art.

[00:19:21] Novelty in tattoo design.

[00:24:09] Tattoo healing and aesthetics.

[00:26:10] Tattooing techniques and skin adaptation.

[00:30:06] Tattooing on different skin types.

[00:36:04] Evolution of tattoo design.

[00:39:35] Tattoo color saturation techniques.

[00:43:41] AI's impact on creativity.

[00:45:23] Art and technology in tattoos.

[00:52:19] Women in tattooing industry.

[00:56:11-00:56:21] Women in tattooing culture.

[00:57:43] Artists and consumers equality.

[01:02:06] Tattooing as a personal experience.

[01:05:15] Tattooing as a personal memory.

[01:08:11] Tattoo clientele evolution over time.

[01:14:20] Tattooing as a life passion.

[01:18:06] Decorative tattooing trends.

[01:20:50] Photorealism in tattoo art.

Quotes:

"Tattooing's easier. Three days of solid tattooing is easier than breathing, than judging."

"Every time I go home from here, I suffer."

"It's the idea of working with the skin rather than on the skin."

"The loss of the apprenticeship is also to blame, because an apprenticeship was more geared towards teaching you what not to do rather than what you ought to do."

"A human is still going to have to come up with that new brilliant idea that's never been thought of."

"I think what's happening out there right now would have crushed me."

"I want the shop to be clean I want it look more like a salon, you know, I want it to have a kid area and I wanted a little toy area."

"The fact that the women have come into this space and brought feminine energy into this creative space, it's awesome."

"But anybody that got tattooed by Bill will remember him their whole life."

"I think tattooing is not just a job, it's a life. You have to love it."

"Learn the basics first. Style comes later."

"It's always nice to be surprised after all these years."

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 the Icons:

IG:

Filip Leu (@theleufamilysfamilyiron)

Kari Barba (@karibarbatattoo)

Luke Atkinson (@checkerdemontattoos)

Junko Shimada (Junii Diamond) (@junii_diamond)

In today's fast-paced world, where productivity and technology dominate our daily lives, boredom is often viewed negatively. However, a recent podcast episode featuring tattoo artist Jee Saya highlights the significant value of allowing oneself to experience the essential role of downtime in fostering creativity and self-discovery.

'Chats and Tatts' host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with Jee at the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris. With over 23 years of experience, Jee specializes in Neo-Japanese tattoo art, showcasing a unique voice and intricate designs that set him apart in the industry. The conversation dives into the evolving landscape of the liquor industry, discussing recent statistics that highlight a significant decline in alcohol consumption among younger generations. Jee shares his insights on this trend and its implications for the market.

Join Aaron and Jee for an engaging discussion filled with artistic passion and cultural commentary.

Chat Highlights:

00:01:03 - Jee Saya's Tattoo Style and Work 00:02:23 - Rock and Roll Culture in Tattooing 00:03:27 - Productivity vs. Boredom 00:03:58 - The Importance of Boredom and Wonder 00:06:12 - Parenting and Generational Differences 00:10:21 - Rebellion Through Inactivity 00:14:06 - Social Media Necessity for Tattoo Artists 00:19:04 - Life Beyond Survival 00:22:24 - Interest in Real vs. Fake Content 00:26:07 - Laborious Nature of Tattooing 00:30:24 - Techniques and Pain Management 00:34:09 - Future of Pain Management in Tattooing 00:38:04 - Apprenticeship and Dedication 00:40:57 - Finding Personal Style in Tattooing

Quotes:

"It was, and still, it's very punk rock, very aggressive, very, fuck it, let's rock, you know, and that was our culture."

"Wonder is a privilege of the human being, also animals."

"I think the only way to be a rebel now is inactivity."

"You're not going to get your path and the truth of maybe where your true destiny lies unless you get quiet and be, you know, not be filling your day with activities."

"I wish I did not have to. And one day, one day in the future, I'm sure I'm gonna, I tell everybody, you'll know when I've made it, you know, on a financial level, because my accounts will disappear, you know?"

"Last time someone says like AI fuck the life of people. It's not true."

"Tattoo has given me everything, you know. Any time you engage with something you love, you give up something else to some degree."

"For the people that want to be tattoo artists, I think they need to believe in tattoos more than this life."

"If you want to have a piece of this world, you better have a deep, deep love because it's going to take a lot."

"You find your style when you don't try to find it. It finds you."

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 Jee:

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

In a recent episode of the podcast "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova sat down with renowned tattoo artist Ching, also known as 'Orient Ching", celebrated for his exceptional work in traditional Japanese tattooing. Their conversation explored Ching's deep commitment and passion for his craft, shedding light on what it takes to excel in the tattoo industry.

Recorded in Paris at Mondial du Tatouage, the conversation dives into the impressive body of work that Ching has developed over his 24 years of tattooing. With a focus on traditional Japanese motifs, Ching's artistry is highlighted for its beauty, attention to detail, and the sheer volume of his tattoos. Aaron reflects on his own tattooing journey, contrasting their schedules and commitments, with Ching revealing that he tattoos almost every day.

This episode offers a fascinating insight into the dedication and craftsmanship required to excel in the tattoo industry. Tune in to hear more about Orient Ching's inspiring journey and the artistry behind his work.

Chat Highlights:

00:01:44 - Paris Tattoo Convention

00:02:26 - Balance with Your Tattooing Schedule

00:03:54 - Ching's Dedication to Tattooing

00:05:09 - Balancing Family and Work

00:06:05 - Leaving a Legacy Through Tattooing

00:06:27 - Ching's Introduction to Tattooing

00:07:45 - Early Tattooing Experiences

00:09:03 - Learning at East Tattoo Shop

00:10:32 - Opening His Own Shop

00:14:14 - The Joy of Client Satisfaction

00:15:12 - Ching's Favorite Aspects of Tattooing

00:17:27 - Transition from Coil to Rotary Machines

00:24:08 - Changes in the Tattoo Industry

00:25:04 - Customer Expectations and Patience

00:26:08 - Easier Access to Tattooing Resources

00:27:04 - Reflecting on Industry Changes

00:30:07 - Favorite Conventions

00:31:06 - Collaborations with Other Artists

00:39:17 - Inspiration from Old Japanese Paintings

00:40:04 - Simplicity in Tattoo Design

Quotes:

"One day I die. I hope I have some work can live on."

"At first, you don't think the money, you think I see the customer is like my body, like my name."

"To know that you can make somebody that happy on such a personal, intimate, permanent level, it's kind of rare."

"I'm lazy. I just want it to be the same every day."

"Your commitment to tattoo, your love for tattoo. It's inspiring."

"In the end, our tattoo is what can I take away? What could not be there? Less, less, less. Until you're left with the thing that mattered."

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 Ching:

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

The tattoo industry is currently experiencing a renaissance, marked by a remarkable surge in both technical skill and creativity among artists. This transformation is particularly evident at conventions like the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris, where hundreds of talented tattoo artists showcase their work, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in tattoo art.

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova sits down at the Mondial du Tatouage convention in Paris with the talented tattoo artist Raydems. Known for his stunning black and gray large format tattoos, Raydems shares insights into his artistic journey and the inspirations behind his intricate, dark work. Despite only nine years in the industry, Raydems has built an impressive portfolio that showcases his skill and dedication. Aaron and Raydems discuss the tattooing process, the importance of self-care in such a demanding profession, and the influence of renowned artists like Paul Booth.

Tune in for an engaging conversation that reveals the passion and artistry behind tattooing. Don't forget to check out Raydems on Instagram at @RAYDEMS!

Chat Highlights:

00:01:55 - Work-Life Balance 00:03:07 - Tattoo Techniques and Styles 00:04:18 - Freehand Tattooing 00:05:51 - Challenges of Freehand Tattooing 00:07:03 - Dark Art and Personal Background 00:08:41 - Public Perception of Tattoos 00:12:06 - Artistic Expression and Emotion 00:14:13 - Future of Tattooing

00:17:09 - Impact of AI and Technology 00:22:32 - Client Preferences and Market Trends 00:28:44 - Tattooing in Australia 00:32:09 - Changing Forms of Expression 00:35:09 - New Generation of Tattoo Artists 00:38:38 - Advice for Aspiring Tattoo Artists

00:39:29 - Tattoo Renaissance and Future Prospects

Quotes:

"I made it a name from the start of my career to just turn around and delve straight into freehand."

"So what would be the new barriers that are broken? My mind goes more towards Composition. New composition that it hasn't been thought of."

"It definitely holds a lot more weight than just type it in mid-journey and that's it and you don't do bugger all to it."

"They just want to see an image. They go, that's dope. Do you have the technical ability to put that in my skin?"

"I'll be very raw and honest by saying I know in my heart if I had never owned those shops I would have done better. A hundred percent."

"The days of being kind of good at this are kind of going away. You've got to be like, really good at this."

"I think your chances of making it are fucking one in a thousand."

"We're really shifting forward now... It's gotten crazier since."

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 Raydems:

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

In this recent podcast episode featuring Ghis Melou, a seasoned tattoo artist and owner of Half Wolf Tattoo, the significance of maintaining a balance between work and personal life emerges as a central theme, along with the challenges that come with creating large-scale body art.

Host Aaron De La Vedova sits down with Ghis Melou, the owner of Half Wolf Tattoo, live from the Mondial du Tatouage in Paris, France. Ghis shares insights into his artistic style, which beautifully fuses traditional American and Japanese tattoo techniques with bold colors. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the tattooing process, the challenges of the industry, and the dedication required to create stunning body art. Follow Ghis on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ghis_melou_tattooer to see his impressive body of work.

Chat Highlights:

00:00:53 - Balancing Work and Family Life

00:01:34 - Ghis Melou's Tattooing Journey

00:03:13 - Tattoo Styles and Longevity

00:04:01 - Realism in Tattooing

00:05:06 - Efficiency in Tattooing

00:07:21 - Pain and the Tattoo Process

00:10:14 - Numbing Creams and Anesthesia in Tattooing

00:12:02 - Meditation and Spiritual Growth Through Pain

00:12:57 - Tattoo Machines: Coils vs. Pens

00:14:45 - Characteristics of a Great Client

00:16:43 - Evolution of the Tattoo Industry

00:18:05 - Future of Tattooing

00:19:52 - Tattoo Consultation Process

00:22:13 - Importance of Client Satisfaction

Quotes:

"After 16 years, you've got to find some balance."

"It's not like time should be the most considerable thing when you're creating art. Like, art takes as much time as it takes, you know?"

"I think pain is part of the process, and people have to understand it."

"It's almost like that is opening a doorway to the client. You could have some of my energy

"You have to find peace inside of your pain, really."

"Someone who knows what they want, but gives you freedom artistically enough."

"I hope it's going to go back to more passionate people, maybe passionate tattooers and passionate clients."

"The design has to talk to you. Otherwise, it's better not to get tattoos, really."

"I don't want to do anything else."

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 Ghis:

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

The therapeutic aspect of tattooing is a profound theme explored in the podcast episode featuring Aaron Della Vedova and tattoo artist Marty Early. Throughout their conversation, they delve into how tattoos can serve as powerful tools for healing and personal transformation, particularly for individuals coping with trauma.

In this and upcoming episodes of "Chats and Tatts," Aaron takes us to the vibrant Mondial du Tatouage in Paris, where he interviews tattoo artists from around the world. With over a decade of experience, Marty shares insights into his impressive neo-traditional and neo-Japanese tattoo styles, characterized by bold colors and clean designs. The conversation delves into Marty's involvement in the show "Tattoo Cover" on TFX, which focuses on cover-up tattoos and transformative scar work for individuals with traumatic pasts. Marty highlights the human aspect of tattooing, emphasizing how the show aims to change perspectives on life through art.

Join Aaron and Marty for a heartfelt discussion about art, healing, and the deeper meanings tattoos can hold in people's lives.

Chat Highlights:

00:00:46 - Marty's Tattooing Background

00:01:23 - Tattoo Cover TFX Show

00:01:33 - Cover-ups and Human Connection

00:02:16 - Therapeutic Aspects of Tattooing

00:05:35 - Client Collaboration in Tattoo Art

00:06:50 - Tattoos and Emotional Release

00:08:09 - Acupuncture and Emotional Release

00:09:03 - Pain and Healing in Tattooing

00:10:08 - Suffering and Success

00:14:21 - Advances in Numbing Creams

00:15:38 - Losing the Pain Experience

00:18:57 - Tattooing as Part of Identity

00:19:08 - Enjoying Life Outside Tattooing

Quotes:

"It's not about only tattoos, it's about connections, it's about human relations."

"When I look in the mirror, I don't want to see the guy who went to war. I want to see a new person."

"Sometimes those people, tattoos are the only thing that kept them above the surface."

"There is no great, great pleasure without having experienced great, great pain."

"What's most important are the clients, the people. It's not your peers, it's not other artists, it's not other tattooers."

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 Marty:

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

Pain management is a vital component of the tattooing process that can significantly influence both the client experience and the quality of the final artwork. As discussed in the podcast episode, effective pain management not only helps clients endure longer sessions but also enables tattoo artists to work more efficiently and produce superior results.

This week's guest is renowned tattoo artist Cindy Maxwell, whose stunning, large-format, Japanese-inspired tattoos have captivated many for over 27 years. Hailing from San Francisco, Cindy shares insights into her tattooing journey, her passion for fitness through jiu-jitsu and CrossFit, and her nomadic lifestyle. Join us as we delve into the world of tattooing and explore Cindy's unique perspective on art and life. Don't forget to check out her stunning work on Instagram at @Cindy_Maxwell.

Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with art, passion, and heartfelt stories!

[00:02:03] Collaboration between tattoo artists.

[00:05:08] Numbing cream in tattooing.

[00:11:40] Pain management in tattooing.

[00:15:34] Creating your own life.

[00:17:16] Pursuing an art career.

[00:24:34] Japanese tattoo culture exploration.

[00:32:06] Life in a sprinter van.

[00:34:55] Fear of being ordinary.

[00:39:10] The nature of consciousness.

[00:41:36] Gypsy lifestyle and personal growth.

[00:48:48] Collective energy in tattoo shops.

[00:54:12] Tattoo trends among youth.

[01:01:09] Creative evolution of black tattoos.

[01:06:32] Tattooing and business marketing challenges.

[01:10:05] Tattooing career challenges today.

[01:13:43] Apprenticeship in tattooing today.

Quotes:

"The reality is they're just not ready to go through it at that moment."

"I'm here to be of service, within reason."

"I got into tattooing as a way to get into a group of folks that I felt were nonjudgmental."

"Most of us got into tattooing because we are creative types who don't like being told what to do, and we want to create our own life."

"I've always thought about like, you got to go where you grow."

"I have had this idea for my whole life, I think that there are infinite ways to live a life and it would be a shame to just pick one."

"As people, our best and worst qualities are the same thing. And I realized that cities are the same."

"I think a tattoo can be anything somebody wants it to be."

"You can only take so much from a business that you don't put more back into."

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 Cindy:

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

From South Africa to the global tattoo stage, Oliver Kenton didn't follow a straight line — he followed geometry. In this episode of Chats & Tatts with host Aaron Della Vedova, we sit down with Oliver to talk about the long road behind his unmistakable geometric and ornamental tattoo work.

What started as an obsession with pattern, structure, and precision became a way of making sense of movement, identity, and starting over in a new country. Oliver opens up about: Growing up in South Africa and how that environment shaped his eye and why geometry became his language when words weren't enough.

The discipline, patience, and control behind large-scale geometric tattoos, his migration, reinvention, and building a life through art are explored in this open, honest chat. His work isn't about trends — it's about order, balance, and intention. This conversation goes deeper than needles and skin. It's about spirituality and the impact of DMT experiences, finding stability through repetition, carving identity through lines, and trusting the process even when the path isn't clear.

Chat Highlights:

00:00 — Why leaving home shaped everything.

03:48 — How patterns, precision, and repetition became his language.

08:32 — Tattooing as control, discipline, and meditation.

14:10 — Trusting the long game.

19:45 — Large-Scale Commitment

31:06 — Permanence Means Something

42:20 — The Energy Exchange

47:55 — Not Chasing Trends

53:40 — Tattoos as a Record of Time

1:05:00 — What Success Really Looks Like

1:16:20 — Advice for Artists Coming Up

Quotes:

"Geometry gave me order when everything else felt uncertain."

"There was no straight path from South Africa to here — just lines I trusted."

"I don't tattoo trends. I tattoo intention."

"Repetition isn't boring — it's where discipline turns into freedom."

"When someone trusts you with their skin, that responsibility is everything."

"Large-scale work teaches patience — not just to the client, but to the artist."

"Tattooing became the place where chaos finally made sense."

"Every line is a decision you have to stand behind forever."

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/oliverkenton