Tattooing, Painting, and Japanese Culture: A Conversation with Senju
Release Date: 05/21/2025
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info_outlineIn 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 first experience with a tattoo—a simple abstract eye—sparked a realization of the permanence and beauty of body art. This moment marked the beginning of his journey into the world of tattooing, which he pursued passionately for over three decades.
Senju's journey from tattooing to painting and back again illustrates the interconnectedness of different art forms. His story highlights the importance of cultural exploration and the willingness to adapt and evolve as an artist. By embracing both tattooing and painting, and utilizing modern digital tools, Senju not only honors the rich traditions of Japanese art but also paves the way for future generations of artists to explore the boundaries of creativity.
Tune in for an inspiring exploration of art, creativity, and the interconnectedness of different mediums.
Chat Breakdown:
00:01:16 - Gods of Ink Convention
00:02:08 - Meeting Senju
00:03:11 - Tattooing in Sweden
00:05:18 - Early Tattoo Influences
00:07:22 - Apprenticeship and Learning
00:09:08 - Discovering Japanese Culture
00:10:22 - Transition to Painting
00:12:03 - Return to Tattooing
00:14:45 - Painting vs. Tattooing
00:17:06 - Shunga: Japanese Erotic Art
00:19:48 - Japanese Cultural Attitudes
00:22:47 - Kinbaku and Shibari
00:25:42 - Work-Life Balance
00:28:28 - Creative Process and Meditation
00:32:01 - Retirement and Lifelong Creativity
00:35:28 - Digital Art Techniques
00:40:16 - Analog vs. Digital Debate
00:44:51 - Acceptance of Digital Art in the Community
Quotes:
"I started to paint Shunga, which is like Edo period porn... I was painting porn but it looked nice, you know, beautiful."
"Because they didn't have Christianity, there was no taboo around sexuality."
"They adapted to a more Christian way of viewing sexuality in the human body, and this has kind of dragged on into the common, to now, you know, contemporary times."
"Yes, this is more, maybe more, seems nicer than ordinary S&M."
"You're 100% in the now. There is only right now happening."
"We are the outliers. We are the outcasts, supposedly. We're the ones that were, I thought, saying to each other, do whatever you want. Live a happy life. And now we're turning on each other?"
"In our minds, change is a tiger coming, you know?"
"Because all art forms are just different expressions of the same thing, you know."
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Connect with Senju:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/senjushunga