Breaking Down the Ego: Tattooing as a Journey of Self-Discovery ft. Jesse Rix
Release Date: 11/20/2024
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,...
info_outlineChats & 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...
info_outlineChats & 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...
info_outlineChats & 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...
info_outlineChats & 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...
info_outlineChats & 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...
info_outlineChats & 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. ...
info_outlineChats & 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...
info_outlineChats & 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...
info_outlineChats & 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_outlineIn this episode of Chats and Tatts Aaron welcomes artist Jesse Rix. The discussion centers on a vital aspect of artistic expression, particularly in tattooing: the significance of demonstrating what is possible. This concept not only nurtures creativity but also paves the way for greater opportunities and client interest in unique styles.
They explore the concept of human existence through a spiritual lens. Aaron emphasizes the importance of recognizing the beauty of each soul navigating this reality, fostering compassion, patience, and empathy in a world often filled with negativity.
Jesse puts a lens on artists actively showcasing their creations. This highlights the reality that potential clients may remain unaware of innovative styles and techniques unless artists take the initiative to drop the ego and simply present their work to the worldd. By doing so, artists can inspire clients to explore new ideas and concepts they may not have previously considered.
Tune in as he shares insights on showing others what’s possible and the ongoing journey of personal development and spiritual growth thrugh tattooing.
Chat Breakdown:
00:01:01 - Aaron's DMT Experience
00:01:32 - Compassion and Empathy
00:04:07 - Childhood and Early Art Influences
00:05:01 - Deciding to Become an Artist
00:06:57 - Learning Tattooing the Hard Way
00:08:00 - Opening a Tattoo Shop
00:13:40 - Inspirations and Artistic Process
00:15:03 - First 3D Geometric Tattoo
00:16:12 - Showing People What's Possible
00:17:57 - Philosophy and the Nature of Reality
00:20:10 - The Purpose of Life
00:21:31 - Safety vs. Freedom
00:23:38 - Community and Understanding
00:24:42 - The Role of Podcasts and Free Speech
00:26:10 - Political Beliefs and Censorship
00:31:31 - The Importance of Client Experience
00:33:33 - Empathy and Compassion in Tattooing
00:35:31 - Tattooing as Self-Development
00:37:09 - Building a Community Through Tattooing
Quotes:
"I'll just say right now, I'm jealous. I don't have that. I live in the urban empire."
"If I'm not going to tattoo or do my art, then I'm just going to do it for fun. And then that fun just became, you know, what I was supposed to do."
"If you do what you love, you work harder than anybody else."
"You just do what turns you on and eventually you look back one day and there's your style, you know?"
" I still steer towards freedom regardless of what comes from that freedom."
"That is a fucking problem. When you live in a supposedly the freest country in the world and you're afraid."
"A man is defined by his actions. And I say, no, no, that isn't. They're defined by the results."
"There is this layer to tattooing that goes beyond great mechanics into this realm of experience."
"I feel like tattooing helped me to learn to love myself."
"I don't want to feel like somebody owns me or somebody gets to dictate how like every aspect of their tattoo, because for me, I like it being more of a collaborative effort."
"The rule is simple. If you're not hurting anybody, I'm cool with you."
"Teaching is the highest level of learning."
Stay Connected:
Connect with Jesse:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/jesse_rix
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