Ink and Energy: Exploring the Artist/Client Bond ft. Anthony Tex
Chats & Tatts
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,...
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Passion, Pain, and Personal Connections ft. Albert (Zaf) Zafra
Chats & Tatts
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...
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Staying Relevant in a Competitive Tattoo Landscape with Chris Henriksen
Chats & Tatts
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...
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The Shift in Tattoo Culture ft Jake Danielson
Chats & Tatts
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...
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Tattooing, Painting, and Japanese Culture: A Conversation with Senju
Chats & Tatts
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...
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Breaking Cultural Barriers: The Evolution of Tattooing in Hong Kong with Derek Yip
Chats & Tatts
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...
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Self-Teaching and Perseverance in Tattooing ft. Sailor Bit
Chats & Tatts
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. ...
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Breaking Boundaries: The Truth Behind a 10-Hour Anesthesia Tattoo Session
Chats & Tatts
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...
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The Tex Effect ft. Ink Master Winner James Tex
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...
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Skepticism and Innovation in Tattoo Art ft. Philipp Trier
Chats & Tatts
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...
info_outlineBuilding a family while maintaining a career can be a challenging endeavor, as discussed in the podcast episode featuring guest Ryan Ussher. Ryan resides in Australia, owns and his work is characterized by bold contrast and dynamic composition. Having started his career in tattooing in 2005, Ryan has worked in many places in Australia and abroad, from bustling street shops to small private studios, to hone his skills into a recognizable style that draws from traditional Japanese tattoo and print imagery as well as Western elements.
Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese tattooing, the ukiyo-e period, and the colorful Western world, Ryan sees himself somewhere within these boundaries. His tattooing is applied with heavy contrast, movement, and clarity that aims to be noticed from across the street.
He shared his love of craft beer, his tattoo journey, and the experience of meeting his wife, who became pregnant within three months of their relationship. This rapid transition into parenthood brought financial challenges and debt that they had to overcome together. Despite the difficulties, facing these obstacles as a team brought them closer and strengthened their bond.
Tune in for insights into Ryan's artistry and journey in the tattoo industry.
Chat Breakdown:
[00:03:35] Large scale tattooing routine.
[00:06:18] Tattooing and physical health.
[00:07:11] Balancing yoga and weightlifting.
[00:12:52] Laser tattoo removal experiences.
[00:16:04] Blackout tattoo trend analysis.
[00:19:22] The rebellious nature of tattooing.
[00:22:00] Tattoo culture in different neighborhoods.
[00:25:35] Beer review adventures.
[00:32:44] Family travel adventures.
[00:37:15] Date night frequency advice.
[00:39:45] The challenges of balancing life.
[00:44:49] Tattooing's past, present, future.
[00:51:29] The impact of AI in art.
[00:57:51] Evolution of tattoo industry.
[01:06:30] Gun violence and perceptions.
[01:09:07] Gun control and safety.
[01:16:48] Supporting the tattoo industry.
Quotes:
"Large scale tattooing is, uh, it's a grind, man."
"I'm into weird beer. That's my thing."
"Identifying with the vibration, I would call it, you know, of the art form, the rebellious nature."
"When you have kids, this other part of your DNA activates, and suddenly you are just focused and doing the things you need to be doing."
"I want to do whatever I think is good. And whatever I thought was good was whatever I saw in the magazines that were like, wow, this guy's doing insane realism. Imagine doing that. I'm going to have a crack at it."
"I really think AI can fuck off."
"Handmade crafts are gonna be like ten x in value where they are today like they'll be these."
"I'm going to the Mexican lager from Harlan Brewing. I'm a big fan of Mexican beer in general."
"Imagine walking in and you open your computer screen and there's a little beautiful human that isn't real, that has got all the books sorted out for everybody."
Stay Connected.
Connect with Ryan:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/ryanussher/
Lotus Needles: https://www.instagram.com/lotusneedles/
Website: https://www.usshertattoos.com/
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