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."

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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