Art, Identity, and the Evolution of Tattoo Culture ft. Filip Leu
Release Date: 08/27/2025
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Art, Identity, and the Evolution of Tattoo Culture ft. Filip Leu
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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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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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IG: https://www.instagram.com/filipleu