Chats & Tatts

The significance of physical and mental well-being for tattoo artists cannot be overstated, especially given the demanding nature of the profession. Tattooing requires not only artistic skill but also physical endurance and mental resilience. In the podcast episode, both Henning Jorgensen and host Aaron Della Vedova emphasize the importance of maintaining one's body and mind to ensure a long and successful career in tattooing.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, Aaron welcomes the legendary tattoo artist Henning Jorgensen at the renowned Gods of Ink tattoo convention in Frankfurt, Germany. Aaron expresses his admiration for Henning, describing him as a significant figure in tattoo history, someone he has looked up to since his early days in the industry. The conversation delves into the dynamics of tattoo conventions, the evolution of tattoo art, and the personal connections that bring artists together.

Join them for an insightful discussion that celebrates the art of tattooing and the legacy of its pioneers.

01:53 - Convention Experiences 03:37 - Maintaining Health and Longevity 05:08 - Yoga and Physical Well-being 09:00 - Early Tattoo Experiences 00:10:33 - Starting to Tattoo 14:28 - Learning from Legends 22:21 - Learning from Paul Rogers 23:44 - Establishing Royal Tattoo 25:03 - Japanese and Traditional Tattoos 28:04 - The Meaning of Tattooing 32:28 - Evolution of Tattoo Portfolios 36:34 - Industry Changes and Challenges 41:05 - Balancing Personal Life and Tattooing 42:28 - The Artist's Life and Obsession 43:12 - Tattoo Schools vs. Traditional Apprenticeships 44:26 - Advice for Aspiring Tattoo Artists

Quotes:

"I am in a new chapter of my life where I want to come out and be a part of the tattoo world in a bigger way than I have been before."

"But Henry was kind enough to show me and teach me how to, you know, dip your needles in hexol, you know, so they didn't rust."

"Well, nobody knows history is being made when you're in the middle of being made."

"But you certainly aren't going to end up where guys like us end up. And that's the most beautiful gift of it all."

"You've got to do things legitimately, authentically."

"You are not going to survive like that anymore. You have to be a top-performing tattooer."

"To be great as a musician, a sculptor, any of these things, to be not even great, just good... you have to become a little bit consumed, obsessed."

"If you love it enough, you don't need a tattoo school."

"This space, this world we live in, the tattoo world, is a much better place with you in it."

"I count my blessings every day. And I wouldn't be without it now, for sure."

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Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

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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 Patrick:

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

The desire to pursue a passion can be a powerful motivator for individuals, often driving them to learn and grow despite feelings of unqualification or inexperience. This theme is vividly illustrated in this podcast episode featuring tattoo artist Chris Crooks, who shares his journey into the world of tattooing with host Aaron Della Vedova.

From a young age, Chris was immersed in tattoo culture, with both of his grandfathers and his father sporting tattoos. This early exposure ignited a desire within him to become a tattoo artist, even before he fully understood the craft. He reflects on how the "desire to do it was bigger than the capabilities," highlighting a common experience among many who pursue their passions. This intrinsic motivation propelled him to acquire the skills necessary for success in tattooing, despite his initial lack of experience.

Aaron sits down with Chris at Gods of Ink in Frankfurt, Germany. Aaron reflects on the tattoo artist journey that is rarely straightforward and lacks a clear roadmap. The conversation explores the intricacies of the tattooing process and the passion that fuels artists in this creative field. Tune in for insights into the art of tattooing and the stories behind the ink.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:00 - Overcoming Limitations

00:02:00 - Family Influence: Tattoos in the Family

00:03:56 - Ignorance and Confidence

00:04:56 - Imposter Syndrome: The Ongoing Struggle

00:06:25 - The Role of Ignorance and Confidence in Success

00:07:19 - Validation from Peers

00:11:06 - The Value of Hard Work: Learning the Craft

00:18:02 - Being Nice Pays Off

00:19:05 - The Global Tattoo Scene: Breaking Stereotypes

00:22:08 - The Digital Age: Accelerating the Craft

00:26:11 - Gratefulness and Opportunity in Tattooing

00:30:19 - The Pyramid of Tattooing

00:34:46 - The Pressure of Large Format Tattoos

00:37:23 - The Shift to Japanese Style:

00:44:15 - Empathy and Self-Protection

00:49:15 Work-life Balance and Creativity

01:01:45 Cultural Appreciation Through Music

01:15:04 Tattooing as a Human Experience

01:19:10 Inspiration in Tattooing

Quotes:

"The desire to do it is always stronger than the being able to do it."

"Ignorance and confidence of youth... you had nothing to lose."

"We have to allow ourselves to make mistakes and we have to be OK with those mistakes and not just beat ourselves up to the point where we are stifled."

"Just cover it with Vaseline. When your tattoo looks like shit, just at the end, just wad a lot of Vaseline so they can barely see what's going on."

"Just being nice to people. And then just that little bit of drawing for them or whatever, just a tiny bit of extra, it just naturally is what I felt like I wanted to do."

"If you wanna come in right now, you better end up being fucking really good at this."

"I just, I'm always curious, like, where'd that little part of me go?"

"Don't ever betray yourself by being indecisive and waking up and find yourself in a position that, you know, if you had a clone, it would tell you don't do it?"

"Tattooing is like this, this lifestyle, find a decision, make the decision, go all in."

"The biggest stumbling blocks for white guys aspiring to do Japanese stuff is other white guys that have been doing it longer."

"You have to engage with people... it's a new community and you have to treat people with the same respect you would in real life."

"Something was ignited in me that I haven't felt in a long time, and I think I needed it."

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 Chris:

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

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vadova connects with talented tattoo artist Anthony Tex at the prestigious Gods of Ink convention in Frankfurt, Germany. They delve into the unique energy exchange that occurs during tattoo sessions, discussing the bond formed between artist and client during these intimate and vulnerable moments. Anthony shares insights about his 13-year journey in the tattoo industry, including his apprenticeship under his father, James, who has been tattooing for 26 years. The conversation highlights Anthony's unexpected path to becoming a tattoo artist, revealing how a childhood fascination evolved into a flourishing career, and being runner up to his dad on season 16 of Ink Masters.

Tune in for an engaging discussion about artistry, mentorship, and the world of tattoos!

Chat Breakdown:

01:50 - Choosing Tattooing Over Other Careers 02:12 - Family and Early Exposure to Tattooing 03:41 - Experience on Ink Master 05:02 - Importance of Illustrating and Drawing in Tattooing 07:57 - What Makes a Great Tattoo 09:47 - Composition and Placement in Tattooing 12:06 - Importance of Body Flow and Placement 15:26 - Spiritual and Emotional Connection in Tattooing 20:16 - Client Trust and Artistic Freedom 23:32 - Handling Client Feedback and Adjustments 26:38 - Growth and Learning Through Travel and Guest Spots 29:41 - Slowdown in the Tattoo Industry 32:18 - Saturation and Competition in the Tattoo Industry 35:58 - Concerns About AI Replacing Human Tattoo Artists 38:13 - Authenticity in Tattoo Art Creation

Quotes:

"There seems to be some kind of energy exchange when you tattoo somebody, like a bond that is created."

"I think there was always talent. I think it's, you know, a lot of people don't want to, maybe show their failures or their weaknesses, you know, show vulnerability."

"It turned for me from the idea of putting a tattoo on somebody into the idea of like decorating a human body."

"If you think everyone's a dick, then you're a fucking dick... You're just attracting... What's your problem?"

"If you're trying to become the best tattooer possible, I don't think you should do that. Secluding yourself like that is going to stifle your growth."

"I can't fathom not ever tattooing and just doing something else."

"I think just reach out of that box a little bit. Try something new."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

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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 Anthony:

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

In this episode of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with renowned tattoo artist Albert Zafra, affectionately known as Zaf. Broadcasting from Gods of Ink in Frankfurt, Germany, Aaron and Zaf delve into the world of tattoo artistry, discussing the significance of personal tattoos over high-value pieces, and the deep connections they forge.

With 20 years of experience, Zaf shares insights on his neo-traditional style and his journey from Barcelona, Spain, while contemplating the evolving landscape of the tattoo industry and future opportunities. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with passion, creativity, and a love for tattoos!

Don't forget to check out Zaf's incredible work on Instagram at @ZafTattoo and @AlbertZafra.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:10 - Introducing Albert Zafra 00:02:46 - Longevity in Tattooing 00:03:19 - Passion vs. Experience 00:05:18 - Imposter Syndrome 00:09:09 - Covering Up Tattoos with Bad Energy 00:12:21 - Tattoo Session Duration and Focus 00:15:08 - Tattoo Preparation and Technique 00:16:08 - What Makes a Great Tattoo 00:17:03 - Flow and Composition in Tattoos 00:17:48 - AI in Tattoo Design 00:26:12 - Anesthesia in Tattooing 00:29:24 - Client Interaction and Design Process 00:33:13 - The Future of Tattooing

Quotes:

"The ones that scare me the most are the ones that think their stuff looks great."

"For me, the shitty tattoos sometimes are more important than the millionaire tattoos, you know? Because have a very good role with your friend, you know? Have a crazy energy, you know?"

"There is a little piece of me that's kind of embarrassed by it. I'm like, is that me? Or is that a computer?"

"The pain makes you strong. You need to embrace the pain. It is part of it."

"In 10 years, we're going to have machines that are going to do the tattoos."

"You are a fucking number. That's the point."

Stay Connected:

Chats & Tatts:

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

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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 Zaf:

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

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vadova welcomes esteemed Denmark based tattoo artist Chris Henriksen to the show. Recorded at Gods of Ink in Frankfurt, Germany, the conversation highlights Chris's impressive career in tattooing, particularly his mastery of modern Japanese styles. Aaron praises Chris's exceptional skills, especially his smooth shading techniques, and acknowledges the hard work and dedication that have contributed to his success over 16 years in the industry. The episode dives into the challenges tattoo artists face today, including the impact of social media and economic uncertainties, while also celebrating the artistry and inspiration that Chris brings to the tattoo community. Tune in for an insightful discussion filled with passion for the craft and the journey of a talented tattoo artist.

Chat Breakdown:

00:01:20 - Chris's Tattooing Journey

00:02:03 - Finding Tattooing

00:05:03 - Old School Tattooing

00:08:07 - Balancing Family and Career

00:12:06 - Improving Drawing Skills

00:15:00 - Cardio Exercise and Creativity

00:16:02 - Thoughts on Color Realism

00:18:18 - Minimalist and Abstract Tattooing

00:20:03 - Tattoos as Pure Decoration

00:23:14 - What Makes a Great Tattoo

00:25:07 - Composition and Simplicity

00:26:26 - Social Media and Tattooing

00:35:39 - Future Plans and Staying Relevant

Quotes:

"Everything teaches you something. So everything's perfect in some way in the universe."

"Your tattoo can just be beautiful. It does not have to always represent your grandmother."

"I just do a good job, and if I do a good job, that person tells somebody, and they come see me, and that's it. Simple."

"All your followers are just leads."

"Be smart with the finances so that in 10 years from now, there's more freedom to do those things that you want."

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 Patrick:

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

The evolution of tattooing has profoundly transformed the landscape of body art, leading to greater acceptance of diverse styles and allowing artists to explore and create without the necessity of specific meanings behind each tattoo. This shift can be traced back to several key developments in the industry, particularly the rise of social media platforms like Instagram and the influence of tattoo-related television shows.

In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with renowned tattoo artist Jake Danielson at Gods of Ink in Frankfurt, Germany. The discussion kicks off with reflections on the future of tattooing, particularly the challenge of maintaining the integrity and longevity of tattoos over time. Aaron shares his fascination with how current artists push boundaries while also wondering if they can ensure their work stands the test of time. With a shared background in illustrative tattooing, Aaron expresses his admiration for Jake's artistry, setting the stage for an engaging conversation about their craft, techniques, and the evolving landscape of tattoo artistry. Tune in for insights and inspiration from two passionate tattoo artists!

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:32 - The Future of Tattoo Longevity

00:02:01 - Early Tattoo Influences

00:03:06 - Challenges in Large-Scale Tattoos

00:08:08 - Early Tattoo Career and Work Ethic

00:11:25 - The Role of Instagram in Tattooing

00:15:16 - Global Tattoo Community

00:20:10 - Future of Tattoo Techniques

00:21:48 - Traditional vs. Hyper-Realism

00:29:57 - Shift in Tattoo Priorities

00:33:09 - Custom vs. Flash Tattoos

00:35:10 - Specialization in Modern Tattooing

00:37:07 - Black Work Movement

00:39:03 - Tattoos as Body Decoration

00:42:43 - Dream Tattoo Projects

Quotes:

"I'd be interested to see if whatever crazy stuff people are producing now, if they find ways to maneuver what's possible and maintain its long life and integrity of the tether."

"I fucking scroll through your Instagram and I'm like, what the fuck is going on here?"

"I've been pretty blessed with the people that I've surrounded myself with for my whole career that I rarely ever feel like I'm the hardest worker in the room."

"I think this fucking rocket ship increase in radness is going to, it is going to go a little like this."

"How it lives on the person for the next like the rest of their life is so much more important than the Instagram photo"

"It's much more important to focus on the quality of your craft and longevity of the tattoo."

"I almost don't even want to tattoo subject matter anymore. I'm just like, can I just decorate you, please?"

"You're embedding some sort of energy into them, exchanging energy with them."

"Work hard, draw a lot, pay attention to what those before you have done."

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 Jake:

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

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 latest episode of "Chats and Tatts" explores a groundbreaking approach to tattooing: the use of anesthesia to enable individuals to undergo extensive tattoo sessions in a single sitting. This innovative method is particularly appealing to busy individuals who often struggle to find the time for multiple tattoo appointments, which can stretch over months or even years.

Guest Jason Williams exemplifies the type of individual who benefits from this approach. As a family man with a thriving career, he shared the challenges of scheduling multiple trips to the tattoo shop, especially given the time commitment involved in traditional tattooing. With a busy life that includes raising two children and managing a professional career, Jason sought a way to expedite the tattooing process without sacrificing the quality of the artwork.

Aaron shares how his friend reached out with this innovative idea, leading to a collaboration with Dr. Dave Levine, an anesthesiologist and part-owner of a surgical center. With the hands of three other talented tattoo artist from Guru Tattoo in San Diego, this intense and beautiful collaboration camee to life.

Tune in to hear about the unique approach to tattooing, the bond between artist and client, and the thrill of embracing creativity in unconventional ways.

00:01:23 - The Tattoo Project: Full Front Piece 00:01:55 - Setting Up the Anesthesia Tattoo Session 00:03:09 - Addressing Controversy in the Tattoo Community 00:03:56 - Tradition vs. Innovation in Tattooing 00:07:06 - Embracing New Methods in Tattooing 00:09:03 - The Thrill and Danger of the Procedure 00:10:05 - Tattooing Under Anesthesia: The Artist's Perspective 00:11:18 - Collaboration Among Tattoo Artists 00:13:07 - The Risk and Reward of Anesthesia 00:17:03 - Calculated Risks and Living Fully 00:20:04 - Seeking Excitement in a Mundane Life 00:22:23 - The Recovery Process: Waking Up from Anesthesia 00:24:43 - The Aftermath: Pain and Healing 00:29:49 - The Healing Process: Intense Itching and Discomfort 00:31:27 - Reflecting on the Experience 00:34:06 - Appreciation for the Tattoo Community 00:34:27 - The Collaborative Nature of Tattooing

Quotes:

"Tattooing is meant to be painful for a reason. It's a rite of passage."

"What right do we have to tell others what to do with their life, especially when it's not harming anyone?"

"I do like the danger of things. I do like the excitement of the unknown."

"For the first time in my career to be able to just tattoo as hard and as fast as you wanted without worrying about the person that you were doing it to."

"Controversy is so fun."

"I think traditionalists want to stand up for being a traditionalist. And for that, hell yeah. I love it.

"Anytime you can make yourself proud. You know, take that chance, take that risk, live with the risks, and then if something bad happened, then you say, hey, it was something I chose to do."

"I seek that thrill and the danger of it all. And just the excitement. You don't get much excitement during the day of that magnitude, you know, any given day."

"It takes two to make this thing happen. It takes collaboration. This is a collaborative art form and it is the most beautiful part about it."

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