Chats & Tatts

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

The journey to becoming a professional tattoo artist can be long and filled with challenges, often requiring a delicate balance between stable employment and the pursuit of a passion for tattooing.

This is exemplified in the story of Angel Bustos, who began his tattooing journey in 1994 at a young age, inspired by his older brother. Despite his early start, Angel faced numerous obstacles that shaped his path to becoming a respected tattoo artist who brings 30 years of experience to the conversation.

Angel unveils the inspiration behind his graffiti-infused lettering style and the episode kicks off with a discussion about the importance of security and stability in life decisions, particularly in the context of family responsibilities and the unpredictable nature of a career in tattooing.

Aaron shares his own journey, highlighting the challenges of balancing a stable income with the desire for creative freedom as an independent contractor. The episode is recorded live at the Golden State Tattoo Expo in Pasadena, California, where Aaron connects with fellow tattoo enthusiasts and artists, setting the stage for a rich exchange of stories and insights from the tattoo industry.

Tune in for a candid conversation filled with personal anecdotes and reflections on the wild ride of a tattoo artists journey.

Chat Breakdown:

00:05 - Balancing Security and Passion 02:26 - Angel Bustos' Tattoo Journey Begins 04:25 - Tattooing in Middle School 06:03 - Brother's Influence and Passing 10:12 - Tattooing as a Passion, Not Just Income 12:03 - Challenges of Quitting a Stable Job 15:15 - Opening a Private Studio 19:04 - Working with Family 20:33 - Economic Challenges and Tattooing 23:05 - Maintaining Quality and Standards 27:08 - Future of Tattooing and AI 33:28 - Respect for Lettering as Art 38:52 - Future of Lettering in Tattooing 39:02 - Respect from Other Tattoo Genres

Quotes:

• "Tattooing was, even still, it's not stable."

• "You just have to keep going to keep his name alive, essentially, right?"

• "There's no way I could ever have stopped."

• "I was in my own high, I was getting ready to take this another big step in my life and I wasn't really paying attention to the economy."

• 00:24:47 - "Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck. I mean, I love this shit, man."

• "A con isn't going to drive you in life."

• "If you want to be a part of something that's wild and free, then you got to be okay with a little bit of chaos and a little bit of bullshit."

• "I know what we can create when we come together."

• Stay Connected:

  Connect with Angel:

  IG: https://www.instagram.com/angelstat2

  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

Tattooing fosters a unique and personal connection between the artist and the client, setting it apart from other art forms. This bond is rooted in several key aspects discussed in the podcast episode.

Host Aaron Della Vedova takes listeners to the Golden State Tattoo Expo in Pasadena, California, where he engages with Tony Mancia, known for his stunning black and gray surrealism work. The conversation delves into Tony's unique style, which blends realistic elements with surreal influences reminiscent of Salvador Dali. Additionally, the episode touches on the artist's ventures into painting and sculpting, showcasing his diverse creative talents.

Also discussed in the podcast episode, anethesia tattooing and the proliferation of social media has created a landscape where tattoo artists are constantly exposed to a vast array of styles and techniques. This exposure can lead to a tendency to replicate popular trends rather than innovate.

Tune in for an insightful discussion about the innovation, passion and hard work that drives the tattoo community.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:00 - Contests at Conventions 00:02:35 - Tony's Journey into Tattooing 00:04:28 - The Unique Challenge of Tattooing 00:05:38 - The Emotional Impact of Tattoos 00:08:03 - Community and Belonging in Tattoo Culture 00:11:38 - Co-Collaboration in Tattooing 00:14:12 - Tattoo Renaissance and Future Trends 00:15:46 - Impact of Technology and AI on Tattooing 00:19:08 - Revival of Minimalist and Tribal Tattoos 00:22:12 - Analog Art vs. Digital Art 00:23:06 - Social Media's Role in Tattooing 00:23:38 - Anesthesia Tattoos Debate 00:30:56 - Personal Choice in Tattooing 00:33:05 - Purpose of Tattoo Conventions 00:34:28 - Trophy Culture at Conventions

Quotes:

"Tattoo of the Day makes people go insane."

"When you do a tattoo, you're saying, I'm going to be different. I'm going to express myself in this way, and I'm going to have to stick with it to the bitter end."

"Just like dating, you better vibe."

"Every morning I wake up, I see another level of somebody doing something. I'm like, Holy shit, can it get any better? And it keeps going."

"AI seems to be this shiny new toy that it's very impressive... but it is homogenizing."

"I want a real fucking painting with fucking pubic hair stuck in it, you know?"

"I think it devalues the process and I think it also kind of puts this idea in people's heads that like, well if I have the money, right, I can act this way or do this..."

"We are going to do whatever we want and don't judge me."

Connect with Tony:

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

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

The journey to becoming a successful tattoo artist is often fraught with challenges, as highlighted in the podcast episode featuring Stefano Alcantera. His story illustrates the various obstacles that aspiring tattoo artists may encounter, including a lack of resources, mentorship, and initial struggles with technique. However, it also emphasizes that perseverance and passion can ultimately lead to mastery and recognition in the field.

In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes renowned tattoo artist Stefano Alcantara, known for his stunning black and gray surrealism. Recorded live at the Pasadena Golden State Tattoo Expo, the conversation dives into Stefano's journey as a tattoo artist, including his early struggles with tattooing and the pivotal resources that shaped his craft, such as the Huxbalding A to Z book. Stefano shares insights into his artistic process and the passion that drives his work.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion about perseverance in the tattoo industry and the importance of mentorship. Don't miss Stefano's incredible portfolio and the wisdom he imparts throughout the episode!

Chat Breakdown:

[00:02:29] Tattooing in Peru's challenges.

[00:06:19] Discovery of modern tattooing.

[00:07:17] Tattooing journey and self-discovery.

[00:10:40] Tattooing's growth in Peru.

[00:15:46] Commitment to tattoo culture.

[00:19:34] American tattoo shop influences.

[00:22:27] The trust in tattooing.

[00:24:34] Historical impact of tattooing.

[00:28:43] Life-changing tattoo convention experience.

[00:30:33] Tattoo career beginnings.

[00:35:25] Wisdom through life experiences.

Quotes:

"But when you say starving artists, quite literally it was choosing, I might not have enough money for food."

"You had a million reasons to not be doing that and none of them seem to stop you."

"The commitment you must have and the love you must have for tattoo. That touches my heart."

"I feel very blessed and very happy, and sometimes even surprised that somebody trusts you so much to mark their body forever."

"I won best of show in Philadelphia. And that's when I think my life changed because I got offered for a couple of shops to work."

"Be patient. If your heart's pure, I bet you one day you're gonna be like, that was perfect."

"My doors are wide open. Guru tattoo. We'll host you. We'll take care of you. We'll make you happy."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Stefano:

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

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.comm

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

Despite technological advancements, the human touch and taste in tattooing remain irreplaceable. The essence of tattoo artistry lies in the unique vision and emotional connection that an artist brings to their work. While AI can generate designs and assist in the rendering process, it cannot replicate the nuanced understanding of aesthetics, personal stories, and the intimate relationships that develop between tattoo artists and their clients.

Scott Campbell, Aaron's first of many guests at our podcast pop-up during the Golden State Tattoo Expo, highlights the importance of emotional engagement in tattooing. He notes that the act of tattooing is not just about the final product but also about the journey and the connection formed during the process. This human element is what makes tattoos deeply personal and meaningful, transcending mere visuals. The artist's ability to understand and interpret a client's desires, emotions, and life experiences is something that AI cannot fully grasp or replicate.

Tune in for an engaging dialogue that explores the depth and layers of tattoo artistry and the passion behind it.

00:00:00 - Distinctive Voice in Tattooing

00:02:48 - Scott's Thoughtful Approach to Art and Life

00:05:00 - Early Tattooing Experiences

00:06:13 - The Pirate Gypsy Vibe of Tattooing

00:07:32 - Influences and Mentors: Juan Puente 00:12:41 - Tattooing as a Folk Art 00:14:48 - The Ephemeral Nature of Tattoos 00:17:17 - The Leap of Faith in Creativity and Life

00:18:40 - Relationships and Tattoos 00:24:00 - The Importance of Co-Parenting

00:26:05 - Scott's Podcast: Stupid Things for Love 00:32:07 - Adapting to Changes in the Tattoo Industry 00:37:24 - Stoicism and True Strength

Quotes:

"I feel like tattooing is kind of like this big metaphor for the, you know, the misfit table at the high school lunchroom."

"I walked in and told the guy I was a full-fledged professional tattooer, but the airline lost my luggage."

"Oh, this is a place where you can sit still, but still feel like you're moving, you know, because it's such a river of humanity."

"If I do a tattoo on somebody and they get up and they're like, tears in their eyes, they're like, I love it so much, that's the best feeling in the world."

"To develop the ability to dive into something headfirst, not knowing how it's going to end up is really powerful and like one of the most courageous acts ever."

"I do think people's physical identity isn't as significant as their digital identity anymore."

"Fulfillment is a nice word. It's the ability to look back and feel proud of who you are and what you've done with your life."

"I think nowadays I look at life, like it's trippier than some of my hardest acid trips."

"Change is the only constant. The only thing you can be sure of is it won't be this way in five years."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Scott:

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

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