Art, Identity, and the Evolution of Tattoo Culture ft. Filip Leu
Release Date: 08/27/2025
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Pain management is a vital component of the tattooing process that can significantly influence both the client experience and the quality of the final artwork. As discussed in the podcast episode, effective pain management not only helps clients endure longer sessions but also enables tattoo artists to work more efficiently and produce superior results. This week's guest is renowned tattoo artist Cindy Maxwell, whose stunning, large-format, Japanese-inspired tattoos have captivated many for over 27 years. Hailing from San Francisco, Cindy shares insights into her tattooing journey, her passion...
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#102: Erotica, Leather, and Tattooing ft. "Savage" Sal Leon
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#101: Mushrooms, Mayans, and Masterpieces ft. Freddy Jay
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Freddy Jay’s journey into tattooing is a captivating story of unexpected beginnings and unwavering commitment. At the age of 19, he found himself at a crossroads in life, having once aspired to become a pilot due to his love for surfing and the freedom it represented. However, as he matured, he realized that the life of a pilot was not meant for him. Instead, he began to explore his creative side, which ultimately led him to the world of tattooing. In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova returns to his home studio, bringing a vibrant tribal energy to the conversation....
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#100: Tattoos and Sacred Geometry ft. Dillon Forte
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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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#99: The Intimacy of Tebori with Horikei
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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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#96: The Art of Surrender - Greyson Savo's Story of Recovery, Tattoos, and Redemption
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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...
info_outlineThe 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, however, the standards have risen dramatically, making it increasingly challenging for newcomers to distinguish themselves.
In this episode, sponsored by Bishop Tattoo Supply ( https://bishoptattoosupply.com/ ), we dive into Filip's inspiring journey, a groundbreaking figure in the tattoo world known for his large-format body suits. Aaron also shares a personal reflection on how discovering Filip's work transformed his approach to tattooing, shifting from traditional small designs to ambitious, expansive compositions that beautifully adorn the human body. The episode highlights Filip's influence on artists and enthusiasts alike, celebrating his role as a hero in the tattoo community. Additionally, the host discusses the Tattoo Heritage Project, founded by Good Time Charlie, which is dedicated to preserving American tattoo history. Listeners are encouraged to explore the project's initiatives, including a traveling tattoo museum and the newly debuted film "Dare to Dream."
Tune in for an episode filled with passion, inspiration, and a deep appreciation for the art of tattooing.
Chat Breakdown:
00:01:15 - Tattoo Heritage Project
00:03:06 - Art Techniques and Body Drawing
00:04:06 - Filip Leu's Tattooing Career and Workload
00:07:00 - Tattooing Techniques and Longevity
00:09:15 - Physical Challenges in Tattooing
00:11:25 - Realism in Tattooing and Its Longevity
00:16:02 - Challenges for New Tattoo Artists
00:20:01 - The Meaning and Motivation Behind Tattoos
00:23:16 - Facial Tattoos and Extreme Body Modifications
00:26:08 - Ignorant Style Tattoos and Full Black Arms
00:30:00 - Spiritual and Philosophical Reflections on Tattooing
00:37:00 - Robotics and the Future of Tattooing
00:39:31 - DNA and Human Progress
00:44:01 - Lessons from DMT and Life Reflections
00:54:03 - Life-changing experience in Varanasi.
01:02:30 - Energy exchange in tattooing.
01:21:06 - Tattoo machine technology and preferences.
Quotes:
"What's the colour that heals the fastest? And I didn't get it right, because the answer is skin."
"Tattooing seems to me at this phase as this process of elimination almost. It's like we're spending our whole careers figuring out what we didn't need to do."
“The public is steering where tattooing is going."
"I was taken aback that I didn't have, until now, The fucking balls to do that to somebody's body, because it's so individual, so distinct, such a statement, artistically speaking."
"It's all a way for me to, or a person to say, look at me. I'm a unique individual. I'm not just a number. I'm different."
"That's the other side of tattooing, the big fuck you."
"What's the point of worrying about shit you can't fucking change or control?"
"I refuse to feel guilty for the way I want to waste my life. It's my life to waste."
"I guess for each person would have to answer that question. I'm thinking about myself right now and being honest enough to admit a lot of it, I think it's my ego."
"I walked out of that afternoon like, oh my god, I'm a meat puppet. I'm a meat bag. Like, wow, this is not permanent."
"A very sensitive art student would never have made it. He couldn't survive that environment."
"I went back and cried in the hotel that night, told my mom I couldn't go back the next day, because I realized how shit I was."
"It's when it goes all wrong, right, it's all pear-shaped, and suddenly you realize just what a fucked up, job it is. It's so hard."
"Let go of all these dragons and demons and skulls and samurais and all this shit and let's just get into the beauty of decorating."
"You'll fucking blow a line out, like, on a shin bone or something, like, you know, quickly."
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