Tattoos and Sacred Geometry ft. Dillon Forte
Chats & Tatts
The belief in separation is a fundamental issue that contributes to ignorance and suffering. Recognizing our interconnectedness could lead to a more harmonious existence. This idea is deeply explored in the podcast episode featuring host Aaron Della Vedova and guest Dillon Forte, who discuss the implications of viewing reality through the lens of separation versus interconnectedness. Dillon is a renowned tattoo artist located in Austin, TX, and is credited with helping to launch the geometric tattoo movement in the U.S. in the early 2010s. The conversation blends art, spirituality, and the...
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The Intimacy of Tebori with Horikei
Chats & Tatts
Tebori tattooing, a traditional Japanese hand-poked method, is more than just a technique; it embodies a philosophy that emphasizes a profound human connection and energy transfer between the tattoo artist and the client. Practiced for thousands of years, this method involves using a long stick with needles attached to the end, allowing the artist to create tattoos without the aid of machines. This simplicity lies at the heart of the Tebori experience, fostering a unique and intimate atmosphere during the tattooing process, and our guest today is one of the masters of this craft. ...
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Queen of Neo Trad ft. Fiori Lorett
Chats & Tatts
Inspiration for creativity often arises from active engagement rather than a passive search for it. This concept is vividly illustrated in the conversation between host Aaron Della Vedova his guest Fior Lorett, a seasoned tattoo artist. Fiori emphasizes that her creative process is deeply intertwined with her daily artistic practice. She states, "the more I do, the more inspired I may be," highlighting that involvement in the creative process itself can ignite new ideas and motivation. Fiori shares insights into her unique neo-traditional style, which features an ornamental flair, and...
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A Body of Work: The Matt Jordan Episode
Chats & Tatts
In this episode, host Aaron Della Vedova delves into the importance of creating art for oneself rather than for external approval, highlighting the personal connection and significance behind each piece of work. The discussion with New Zealand-based tattoo artist Matt Jordan emphasizes the value of handmade artistry in an increasingly digital world, celebrating the unique and analog nature of tattooing. Matt is a phenomenal tattoo artist whose work has left a lasting impression on many. "What are you going to do to separate yourself? What are you going to do so that you can look...
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The Art of Surrender: Greyson Savo's Story of Recovery, Tattoos, and Redemption
Chats & Tatts
The journey of healing and transformation can be catalyzed by profound life experiences, such as accidents, which compel individuals to confront their past and redefine their identity. This theme is vividly illustrated in the story of Greyson Savo, who endured a life-altering accident that not only changed his physical state but also prompted deep introspection and a transformation of his identity, including the incredible covering of his scars by tattoo artist Patrick Sweeney ( https://www.instagram.com/patricksweeneyart ). In this episode of "Chats and Tatts," host Aaron Della Vedova...
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Breaking Barriers: Heather McLean (Hyphaea) on Women in Tattooing
Chats & Tatts
The evolution of tattooing from a taboo, underground culture to a widely accepted art form has significantly transformed the industry's dynamics, impacting both artists and clients in various ways. In the early days of tattooing, particularly in the 1990s, the culture was largely underground and associated with rebellion. In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova takes a unique approach by conducting the first-ever remote podcast on the show, reaching out to guests who are unable to join in person. He welcomes tattoo artist Heather McLean, known on Instagram as Hyphaea,...
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Art, Identity, and the Evolution of Tattoo Culture ft. Filip Leu
Chats & Tatts
The evolution of tattooing has been profoundly shaped by artistic trends and public perception, particularly in recent years. As discussed in the podcast episode featuring one of the world's most prolific and respected tattoo artists, Filip Leu, there has been a significant shift towards realism in tattoo art, which has gained popularity among both artists and clients. Aaron Della Vedova and Filip reflect on their early careers, noting that while there were many skilled tattoo artists, the quality of art varied widely, with a considerable number of less experienced practitioners. Today,...
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Building a Legacy: Henning Jorgensen on Tattooing and Community
Chats & Tatts
The significance of physical and mental well-being for tattoo artists cannot be overstated, especially given the demanding nature of the profession. Tattooing requires not only artistic skill but also physical endurance and mental resilience. In the podcast episode, both Henning Jorgensen and host Aaron Della Vedova emphasize the importance of maintaining one's body and mind to ensure a long and successful career in tattooing. In this episode of Chats and Tatts, Aaron welcomes the legendary tattoo artist Henning Jorgensen at the renowned Gods of Ink tattoo convention in Frankfurt, Germany....
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Building Confidence as a Tattoo Artist ft. Chris Crooks
Chats & Tatts
The desire to pursue a passion can be a powerful motivator for individuals, often driving them to learn and grow despite feelings of unqualification or inexperience. This theme is vividly illustrated in this podcast episode featuring tattoo artist Chris Crooks, who shares his journey into the world of tattooing with host Aaron Della Vedova. From a young age, Chris was immersed in tattoo culture, with both of his grandfathers and his father sporting tattoos. This early exposure ignited a desire within him to become a tattoo artist, even before he fully understood the craft. He reflects on how...
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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,...
info_outlineThe 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