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_outlineDespite 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