fine art
Meighan Mary
aSomeone asked me the other day, “Why do you post so much traditional tattoo stuff”? To be truthful, i didn’t really have an answer. It’s not as if i don’t like other styles of tattooing, I have all the respect and admiration in the world for guys like Paul Booth and Jack Rudy, through to the Japanese masters such as Horiyoshi III (hint), all the way to guys doing super realistic portrait style work such as Nikko and Mick Squires, but something always draws me to traditional tattooing, whether it is how it speaks volumes through it’s relative simplicity, or be it that it is a style that will stand the test of time – I’m not too sure. Perhaps it still retains that certain element of magic and mystery that seems to be ever fading in the tattoo world, whatever it is you are sure to find a whole lot more of it here at This Life.
Staying true to building you a database of the best tattooers from all over the globe, thslfe is stoked to present you, Meighan Mary, working at Alien Art, Mayfield NSW, AUSTRALIA.(Soon to relocate to Melbourne, VIC)
Thanks for your time Meighan, whats been happening?
For those who don’t know, can you tell us a bit about who you are and what you do?
well im from newcastle, which is about two hours from sydney. im a pretty quiet person, i like good rum, good people and good humor. i have been tattooing for three years now an totally enjoying it. i love doing traditional tattoos i find them the most fun an exciting to do.
How does a typical day in your life usually unfold?
Get up and all that stuff, get to work then have a coffee or tea, draw stuff for the day, draw a penis for Ash, work work work then home to Mitchel and Nacho.
What initially got you involved in art, and how did that lead you in to becoming a tattooist?
I always loved art and making it from when i was young, but i went to a fancy school and it never occured to me that you could make a living from doing art unless it was graphic design and i’m terrible with computers. So i sort of gave up on it for a while until i started getting tattooed.
Favourite medium to work with apart from tattooing and why?


Who taught you to tattoo, and how have they had any effect on your style today?
And in saying that, how have your styles evolved since you began tattooing?
When i first started tattooing my style was a bit darker. Now its a bit more like the tattoos i have myself. I like it when i put a tattoo on someone that i would like on myself.
I guess you could say Tattoo’s have become accepted in today’s society, possibly even expected, obviously there being more people for you to tattoo is a good thing, but do you think there is a downside to it?
I think it’s lost the mystery abit. I love the craft’s history and it’s kind of a shame people dont care about it and a tattoo to them is just the latest trend or to be like that “cool dude” that has hand an throat tattoos without a job.
How do you think certain “reality” tattoo shows on TV have affected tattooing on a broad scale?
I guess good and bad. I don’t really watch it so i dont think i can really comment but i just wish people would stop telling me what their tattoo represents. Those shows are not real!
What’s been pumping through your speakers lately?
I like a bit of everything. mostly Rancid or the Slackers, West bound train i’m enjoying and i love the new Spinnerette album.
Greatest accomplishment as an artist/ tattooist?
No doubt you have seen some pretty fucked tattoo’s in your time, what is the worst tattoo you’ve ever seen?
Favourite place to kick it?
At home with my boys. I really enjoy the food and Sangria at our local mexican resturant.
What are you thoughts on the resurgence of Traditional Tattooing?
I think its great.They stand the test of time and they are so beautiful, i don’t know why people wouldn’t like traditional tattoos.
What was your first tattoo, and who did it?
What inspires you to create?
What’s in your pockets right now?
I’m a pretty simple person and i try to just focus on my immediate world because the world as a whole is a bit fucked up.
Name 5 you always pack on your travels?
Camera, Mitchel, nacho, thongs and rum.
How much has tattooing changed since you began, and where do you see it going in the future?
Well i havent been tattooing all that long. I guess it’s a lot more popular now. A guy i work with is convinced were all gonna go back to Celtic and Ornimental tattoos, i hope he is wrong.
Advice to aspiring artists/tattooists?
Anything in the mix or coming up that we should know about?
Meighan Says:
Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.
Kevin Rudd – The dude without the big eyebrows
America – Crazy
Obama – Will probably sell out at some point.
Religion – No thank you
Happiness – England
Orlandini Gianni
I’m always on the hunt for artists and tattooists from different parts of the world, apart from giving you all a reference point for some of the most incredible tattooists on Earth, something that always interests me is speaking to people, particularly those from non English speaking backgrounds, it’s always a good read, and on the most part their ideas and perspectives on a lot of things seem to make a whole lot more sense than a lot of ours do.
As you read through this interview you will notice the sentence structure is a bit different to what you’re probably used to, I try to keep the editing to a minimum when i’m posting what someone else has said, purely because I want to keep it as true to what they said as I possibly can.
Despite the obvious verbal language barriers, tattooing is a universal language that transcends and surpasses all barriers, from America to Australia all the way back to Italy and everywhere in between, there are amazing tattooists and over the coming months I endeavour to bring you at least one amazing tattooist from every corner of the globe, here is Orlandini Gianni of ITALY.
Thanks for your time man, what’s been happening?
I am honoured for the space that you have dedicated, I have just returned to my hometown after a period working out and I’m coming back serenely, in the routine working at my studio in Grosseto, the “Luxury tattoo.”
For those who don’t know, can you tell us a bit about who you are and what you do?
Basically I’m a craftsman and as such I enjoy expressing myself to working on various media types, I like to occasionally vary by working on paper, wood creations as well as pieces of furniture, toys and customization of everything in my free time of anything that comes to mind . But obviously my true love remains the tattoo!!
How does a typical day in your life usually unfold?
Mornings are fairly routine. I wake up, have at least two coffees, arrive at the shop at 9.30 am. At 10.30 i’m preparing to start work. My studio is a welcoming environment, where we work by appointment but only with custom designs. We lose a lot of time with the client to explore and create with him the design for his tattoo . I do not think too much of being a “fast” tattooer .
I usually take two appointments a day, after a lunch break often very short we work around until 7.30pm, then I like to relax at home with my girlfriend and my cat.
What initially got you involved in art, and how did that lead you in to becoming a tattooist?
I’ve always drawn, since childhood. It has always been the thing I’m more involved in. I tried to attend schools of art but have not got to finish them .I was not good at school! Hahaha! .
I subsequently attended several courses of airbrushing and in a few years it has become a job.
I have worked with several brands, Heineken, Triumph, Harley Davidson it took about eight years, I began to approach the tattoo and started sitting on the right side of the chair, hahaha!
I had already seen many tattoos on me and one step after another, the work has become a hobby and hobby has become work .. I have to say I’m really happy with how that happened!
Who taught you to tattoo, and how have they had any effect on your style today?
I am a self-taught. In Italy when you’re a beginner it’s difficult to find people willing to help, determination and perseverance led me to improve. For me getting tattooed, was the only way to really see how someone worked as a professional, let us talk and maybe make us friends, every time I came home enriched with something … I think I have a lot to learn but I am happy with what I’ve done so far.
And in saying that, how have your styles evolved since you began tattooing?
My style is evolving, now I try to maintain the strong contrast and excellent read that provides the basics of traditional, although, that does not define my stuff as “traditional”,at least not all of it, as a person who is tired of always doing the same things, I try to change them, perhaps taking cues and interpreting them in ways I am unsure of.
We don’t really hear a great deal about Italian tattooists in Australia, even less so if you aren’t looking for them, what is the tattoo scene in Italy like?
In Italy the tattoo is a growing phenomenon, the Italian scene offers talented tattoo artists specializing in all kinds of genres, I have many reference points, I don’t know the realities of other countries, the news coming through the magazine or from conventions, I still say that I have enormous respect for many of my colleagues in Italy, I love the Italian scene.
I guess you could say Tattoo’s have become accepted in today’s society, possibly even expected, obviously there being more people for you to tattoo is a good thing, but do you think there is a downside to it?
Certainly now it seems like a contest to see who has more ink on their body. I think this has its good side and bad side, I think the only people who get tattooed for fashion are the ones who do not understand the true alchemy of the tattoo, do not perceive emotions seeing a drawing on the body , they see it as an accessory like a bracelet, a watch, a necklace. I do not think that this creates a damage class, but is definitely a different way of approaching this art. I think it’s still a good thing because, thanks to this now, at least in my country is a recognized profession.
How do you think certain “reality” tattoo shows on TV have effected tattooing on a broad scale?
I think these broadcasts are one of the causes of what i was saying before, I honestly have never seen this type of transmission but I can assure you that we see many, many more Mexican skulls and dragon carp, subjects which were rare here before, but because they are now showed on TV, to say, we hope to do more traditional! Hahaha!
What was the last tattoo you did?
It was on a fan and sponsor of a band called “HELLFIRE SOCIETY” . The bassist Trauma has collected many traditional pieces, yesterday we added a vampire bat in frack!! Very funny!
Greatest accomplishment as an artist/ tattooist?
No doubt as tattooist .. The word “artist” I do not dress(Lay claim to – Ben)!
No doubt you have seen some pretty fucked tattoo’s in your time, what is the worst tattoo you’ve ever seen?
Maybe I did it !!! Full chest…Fertilization of ovum..Fucking crazy!
What are your thoughts on the resurgence of traditional tattooing?
I think it is eternal, the style that manages to have the strongest relationship between quality, impact and durability, a traditional tattoo, by definition is balancing simplicity of black and remains clean and legible for the life, where you will ‘lose a tone color, increase the stretch a little but gains experience that charm that only this style manages to acquire over the years!
What was the first tattoo that you ever did?
My first tattoo was a skull, I did it on the calf of one of my best friends . I must say it was a night and really absurd! I’ve often offered to re-do it but he does not want to touch it .. It’s a reminder that we are loyal, it would be like tearing a picture! Thanks NIKO !!!!!!
Where do you find inspiration to create?
I find inspiration in everything, books, television, commercials, paintings, tattoos, toys, clothes – also the label of a can of tomato can inspire if I happen to have it in my hand at the right time!
What’s in your pockets right now?
Hahaha, good question! ALL!!!!! I’m like Mary Poppins!!
What are your views/opinions on the World and Society today?
This is a rather difficult question. I could say everything and nothing … I will say that the pace of society today leads us to live in the illusion of material happiness letting us draw attention away from true happiness. We should pause to appreciate the little things!
Name 5 things you always take with you on your travels?
Depends where i go!!!!
How much has tattooing changed since you began, and where do you see it going in the future?
I think belonging to the mass phenomenon that affects everyone, the changes are different from country to country . I am still a tattooer of the new generation, I have not lived the years as an operator in the world of tattooing when it was really “underground”.
Advice to aspiring artists/tattooists?
I recommend everyone to believe in themselves and not surrendering to produce very first disappointment. I believe that only the constant and gruelling training led to improvements, not to be influenced too much by the speeche of others, when it was understood at the beginning in all areas to visit, trade shows, conventions, exhibitions and return home with a mouth full of crap!
Orlandini Says:
I want to say that much of the credit goes to my path of my girlfriend Valeria who is also the shop manager and the soul of the shop! I would also like to thank my family for supporting me and for believing in me every time! Many thanks to all who are reading and will read what I wrote , and thank you for giving me this opportunity!
Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.
Australia – Didgeridoo
Kevin Rudd – I’m not informed
Italy – home
Giorgio Napolitano – useless
America- Next travel destination
Obama- We can
Religion – ??????????
Time – Time is one of my obsessions. I have both forearms with tattoos about time.
Greed – Bad beast!
Humanity – Should be more united
Peace – Is important to find ours.
Freedom – The greatest treasure!
Tattooing – My life
Art – Expression
Life – Fast
Happiness- Can also be found in the smallest things
The Culture Vault//Grand Scheme
I can already see your furrowed brow and hear the voice in your head asking,” What the fuck is The Culture Vault? More importantly what the fuck does it have to do with Grand Scheme”?
The Culture Vault is all part of the new direction i’m taking things with This Life, like Life itself, This Life is constantly changing, adapting and evolving, things are being stepped up a notch to ensure that you are getting the content and quality you deserve for checking this site.
I feel like i’ve been slacking a bit of late, so this is the first (albeit very miniscule) of many changes you will be seeing.
Posts that come under The Culture Vault will be Culture orientated, be it a rad label such as Grand Scheme, a cool boutique or store, or whatever else i can fit under that general umbrella.
Grand Scheme is an Australian based lifestyle label, an eclectic mix of street culture, fashion, art and design, tee’s to denim, hats to polo shirts, Grand Scheme has got it covered and on fucking lock!
I caught up with Jimmy through email not too long ago for a chat about Grand Scheme and all things good, suss it.
I’ve also gotta give Jimmy props for his suggestions which lead to the changing of the wording of one of the questions, thanks for the feedback dude!
Firstly, thank you so much for your time, what’s been happening?
No problem thanks for the interest. I have been busy at work, new online shop, getting orders out and planning for next season, usual shit.
For those who don’t know, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Jimmy Bligs I run Grand Scheme clothing. Grand Scheme is an independent arts and lifestyle label that’s a mix of everything I’m interested in, art, design, street wear, fashion with a non pretentious attitude. I also collaborate with like-minded artists from around the world with Grand Scheme’s artist series prints.
What were you doing before Grand Scheme, and how did that lead you in to what you are doing today?
I dropped out of school in year 10, I never really enjoyed anything apart from art.
I was basically a graffiti bum and was getting up to no good for a fair few years, I did learn a lot from that time, typography, illustration, colour combinations, really focusing on my art and style also learning to do everything myself with the tools I had was very important.
During that time I built a reputation for my own art work and style and made a lot of good contacts and friends across the world. That’s one of the great things about graffiti if I go to any city in the world I can usually hook up couch to crash on and an underground tour guide to show me parts of the city you would never find just being a tourist.
I always wanted to be working in a creative field, I have never really held down a typical job. I basically scraped by doing lots of different art related jobs, whether it was for bands, paintings for clubs, TV, movies, etc I managed to get by.
Later on I did a graphic design course, always with a clothing label in the back of my mind and one day I decided to bite the bullet and do it for myself. The rest is history.
Where do you or what do you draw inspiration from as a designer?
So many things, I can’t really put it down to one source. I’m always looking for inspiration, I see so many images and ideas every day with advertising, TV, the internet, it’s a bombardment. I just try to filter through them and scribble down a couple of the good ones.
For the Spring Summer collection I tried to create a collection of clothes I would want to be wearing when Summer hit, there seems to be a festival on every weekend, chilling at the beach, road trips, mix tapes, hot sun, cold beer. That was the background idea for this collection.
What’s been blasting through your headphones lately?
I grew up mostly listening to hip hop but now I try to diversify my taste and not be too snobbish about music, everything from gangster rap, electro, indie, chilled stuff, I have to have music on every day or I go a little crazy.
In the latest line you did a collab with Revok, how did that come about?
I have always been a big fan of his work, we have a fair few mutual friends but I actually started speaking to him about doing a design before I had even printed the first tee, about 4 years ago. Finally everything lined up and I was really stoked to see it all come together.
How would you say Grand Scheme has progressed not only from when you began, but also from the previous line?
In the beginning it was just t shirt prints now it has evolved into a full cut and sew collection with everything from denim, leather jackets, polo shirts, shorts, singlet’s, hats and it’s growing each season.
It’s really come along way, a lot of that comes down to me being a lot more educated on what I want and how to make it happen. I have never done any formal fashion training so I have had to learn it all along the way. The label’s style has also matured and evolved with my taste over the years.
What’s in your pockets right now?
Haha nothing, it’s just too hot today so all my crap’s on the desk. I would be here all week describing all the crap on my desk.
Where did the name Grand Scheme come from?
I like the name Grand Scheme because to me it means to aspire to a goal or something bigger. For me that was to make a living from what I love, but each person can interpret that goal and inspiration differently.
There are a few recurring (but appropriated) themes in your designs, such as that of the All Seeing Eye, what are the reasons behind that?
I find the all seeing eye and triangles in general very mystical and strong image.
The all seeing eye is a very powerful image that also represents the oppressive powers, the haves and the have not’s, power, wealth and greed.
I like to play on the image and use it as a reaction against those ideas.
Nina Las Vegas
How hard is it to establish yourself and build a reputation in streetwear today, when there are so many people out there trying to do exactly the same thing?
I wont lie it’s a lot of hard work and really not easy, it’s also the hardest when you’re first starting out. I don’t want to discourage anyone form chasing their dreams cause that’s what it’s all about but before you just jump in, you need to be smart about it and reduce the risks. I would definitely recommend anyone wanting to start out to write up a detailed business plan and to test the market before they jump in and loose a bunch of cash and end up with a garage full of shirts they can’t sell.
Walk us through your typical day.
Wake up around 8 am check emails, get distracted by endless links on the internet, then it could be literally anything, ranging from designing new prints and garments, dealing with production, putting together a new look book, organising launch parties or sending invoices, packing orders, chasing sales, photographing and editing product, updating the web site, blogging or folding shirts. It changes every day.
When you’re running your own business you have to take the good with the bad and it ALL has to be done. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes to make it all happen and I have to give a big shout out to all my friends and family for helping me along that way.
Joel Birch from Amity Affliction reppin’
What are your views/opinions on the World and Society today?
There is a lot that isn’t right but I try to not to get too caught up on all the negative things in the world and try to live a positive life and make the most of my short time in this world.
Five things you always pack on your travels.
1. I always try to share my travels with good friends.
2. my laptop (always working)
3. Cannon G10 Digital camera, I don’t know how to use it properly but it still takes good pictures.
4. New music
5. New cologne, A friend of mine said it’s a good to listen to a new album and using a new cologne when travelling to new places, then whenever you hear a song from the album or smell that cologne you are taken right back to your travelling adventures.
Any up coming projects or collaborations that we should know about?
I have a couple of collaborations in the works but you will have to wait a bit longer before I can release the details on those.
I’m also launching my new web shop at grandscheme.com.au
Word association, you know the deal, say the first thing that comes to your mind when you read the word.
Australia – home
Kevin Rudd – douche with a tough job
Religion – more harm than good
Time – never enough
Greed – is the rout of all evil
Peace – I doubt it will happen in my life time
Freedom- is truly appreciated after you’ve lost it
Art- life
Grand Scheme – obsession
Life – Is RAD
Happiness – Balance
Where can people follow what you’re up to and view your work?
www.facebook.com/people/Grand-Scheme/1554602095
Last words, shout outs?
Big shout to all my friends, family and anyone who buys and supporters Grand Scheme, it would not be possible without you.
Mick Squires
This weeks feature artist is a radical individual that go’s by the name MIck Squires, if you haven’t heard of him, it’s time you got familiar. Mick tattoo’s at Korpus Tattoo in Brunswick, you can also keep up to date wth what he is doing on his Myspace, or his Website.
Thanks for your time Mick, whats been happening?
Not a problem at all Ben, Actually i’m just back briefly after being in Singapore and the Gold Coast for a convention at each of them.. I’m about to Jet of in a few days to New Zealand for the SINZ convention in Christchurch.
For those who don’t know, can you tell us a bit about who you are and what you do?
Yeah sure can, well ‘ a fairly young tattooer being 25 and originally from Geelong about an hour (by car) south of Melbourne. I actually still live there about 5 minutes from Torquay (Where the great ocean rd starts).. Mainly these days my clients come to me for colour portrait style of tattooing, with not that many artists in Australia doing this it makes it quite interesting having a lot of interstate clients and to show that tattooing is very versatile just as much as oil paint and canvas is..
How does a typical day in your life usually unfold?
Well my days usually start off with jumping on a country train at about 8am and making my way up to Melbourne, I use this down time to answer any email queries.. I usually walk through the door of the studio around 10ish.. On most occasions coffee is needed and soy latte is in hand hahaha. Then I would scan the image of what I’m about to tattoo and manipulate certain things in Photoshop and print it out for size and stencil it from there.. My customer would walk through the door just before 12 and we will tattoo on most jobs for about 6-7 hours… I make my way back down home on the train about 7:30 possibly stopping in the city beforehand and grabbing a feed of Sushi..
What initially got you involved in art, and how did that lead you in to becoming a tattooist?
I’ve always been drawing as long as I can remember, I used to draw dogs and superman for my mum.. Don’t ask me why hahaha. Well I was working as an IT engineer looking at making a break away from such a boring life style and I was by chance walking into a local tattoo shop owned by Chris Reid to watch a friend get tattooed.. Funny enough his computers crashed and I repaired them while I was there, I was offered a tattoo in payment which I took.. That had me thinking, I could do this.. Well I was pretty stupid, tattooing isn’t easy! But I sweet talked Chris into giving me a shot and after working all my free days off for not a cent on the counter and sweeping floors I was tattooing.. Thank you Chris!!
Favourite medium to work with and why?
Oil paint for sure!! It’s very similar for me in tattooing, the texture is amazing and blending that you can achieve is second to none!
Who taught you to tattoo, and how have they had any effect on your style today?
As I mentioned prior Chris Reid taught me to tattoo, his style is very, very bold and heavy which is a near opposite to how I tattoo.. On most of his tattoos you will see massive bold lines and subject matter that you could see from over the street and where I would more or less go about tattooing like painting and use blocks of colour to hold my tattoos together instead of outlines.
And in saying that, how have your styles evolved since you began tattooing?
I really only started to get a style to what i do about a year about, before that I was manly an off the wall tattooer doing whatever i was asked, wanting to be more.. I loved the fact that with needles and ink you could recreate a realistic photo image of someone on skin.. I wanted to do that..
You use Ink-Jecta Machines and Alla Prima ink a lot to achieve some pretty mind blowing results, what’s your preferred ink to work with and why?
Yes i do love to use Ink-Jecta’s (air powered tattoo machines) the reason why is because it allows me to slow my tattooing right down and achieve every detail without doing damage to the skin.. I now have taught myself to be able to use any machine really.. I still do prefer using air though. My ink.. Well I use a lot of everything really, mostly Alla Prima from 2 of my close friends John Montgomery and Joshua Carlton from the States.. But I also use Intenze, Eternal, Classic and One. Each brand serves it purpose in my colour palette.
I guess you could say Tattoo’s have become accepted in today’s society, possibly even expected, obviously there being more people for you to tattoo is a good thing, but do you think there is a downside to it?
I do some of it is becoming a lot of a fashion thing which is kind of stupid considering fashions go in and out and you can’t exactly take your tattoo away.. But I think they still provide some sort of primal edge like they used to.
How do you think certain “reality” tattoo shows on TV have effected tattooing on a broad scale?
As much as im not a fan of them, i tattoo with alot of the guys on those shows at conventions and simply some of them are great tattooers.. But getting back to your question I think it has opened up a lot of people to tattooing, showing them that there a lot more out there then what they think.
What’s been pumping through your speakers lately?
Hahaha um well i was just at Big Day Out and had a ball watching Muse cover and AC/DC’s song Back in Black. But right now at this moment it’s Atreyu..
What’s the coolest thing you’ve done today?
Hahaha well considering i’m sitting on a train at 9:42am and haven’t be awake to long.. I would have to say is reply to a text (which i got at 2am) to a good friend and an a awesome traditional tattooer Emilie (Klak Tattoo) from Belgium and now i’m going to send a text one of my favourite people right now being Ash 🙂
Greatest accomplishment as an artist / tattooist?
Being able to inspire people, still amazes me that the people I looked up to when I started tattooing know who I am and give me a pat on the back for the tattoos i do = Bob Tyrrell! And making my clients smile.
No doubt you have seen some pretty fucked tattoo’s in your time, what is the worst tattoo you’ve ever seen?
Hmm well a fellow tattoo and good friend of mine Monaz has some friends who were offered a tattoo machine when drunk last week and decided to tattoo stuff on their necks.Not the smartest idea..
Favourite place to kick it?
At the local bar in Geelong, It’s called Edge.. It’s right on the fringe of the water front.
What are your thoughts on the resurgence of traditional tattooing?
Are we talking about Traditional American Tattooing? Bold lines, simple colour and basic imagery.. I LOVE IT!
What was your first tattoo, and who did it?
Chris Reid and it is 3D tribal hahahaha, if i didn’t get that i probably wouldn’t be tattooing.
What inspires you to create?
Seeing more and more crazy art and seeing work from tattooers i’ve never heard of before and being blown away!!
What’s in your pockets right now?
My iPhone (Runs my life) about 100 bucks, my car key and a few coins..
What are your views/opinions on the World and Society today?
That’s a big broad question.. Well let’s just go with one part of Society that I seem to deal with a lot.. A lot of people trying to be different and individual but in doing that they are not really that different from the next person trying it.
Name 5 things you couldn’t live without.
My Macbook, My iPhone (thank-you Apple), Retro Shoes, Tattooing and Art.
How much has tattooing changed since you began, and where do you see it going in the future?
I think tattooing has evolved a lot over the past 10 years (not that i have been at it that long) but it’s got to a point where i think it’s going to back to basic and we will start seeing more illustrated tattooing..
Advice to aspiring artists/tattooists?
Advice… Keep motivated.. Keep at it, if you feel stale re-inspire yourself with other artists or other forms of art!
Anything in the mix or coming up that we should know about?
I havent had a shave in 3 weeks?.. Hahaha
Mick Says:
Don’t be afraid to go against the current flow.. Take advice and do what you think is right. Don’t be afraid to step out of the boundaries and do what makes you happy..
Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.
Australia – the best place on earth, home..
Kevin Rudd – Our geek
America – Amazing
Obama – Peace!
Religion – war
Time – measurement made from sunlight
Greed – Money
Humanity – Caring
Peace –A long way off..
Freedom – State of mind
Tattooing – Iron, Needles and Pigment
Art – Forever
Life – The ultimate gift
Happiness – How I feel right now
Big Fat Joe
Meet Johan, AKA Big Fat Joe. Johan is not really big, nor is he fat, but he is a damn fine tattooist.
I’m really digging how he puts his own spin on “traditional” tattooing opposed to churning out the same shit that everyone else does.
Johan tattoos at Art By Fafnir, in Stockholm, Sweden.
Check out Joe’s Myspace HERE
Thank you for your time dude, what’s been happening?
No problem. I’ve been tattooing my ass of and playing records in the weekends. I’m just starting up a new Rhythm and Blues club called Rhythm Shack here in Stockholm and sorting out what conventions to go to this year.
For those who don’t know, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Sure. I’m a 34 year old married tattooer and DJ from Sweden. I have been tattooing for almost 3 years, so i am still pretty new at it. Before that I worked with computers so i’m really glad I changed my path in life. Haha.
How does a typical day in your life usually unfold?
On a typical day I get up at nine, get a shower and pet the cats. After that i walk in to the studio to draw the tattoos for the day and have a quick salad. The work all day til seven or eight, clean my gear and sterilise and finally walk home. That’s my weekday. On the weekend I play rockabilly records in bars and drink a few beers.
What initially got you involved in art, and how did that lead you in to becoming a tattooist?
I have always been fascinated by my dad’s old tats and my mom’s painting and when I turned 18 I walked into a studio with a drawing in my hand and got my first tattoo done. Through the years i got more and started to draw tats for friends, but i still didn’t realise I could become a tattooer. One day i got the chance to tattoo an tattooer and instantly got hooked!
Favourite medium to work with apart from tattooing and why?
My favourite medium is water colour and ink on paper.
Who taught you to tattoo, and how have they had any effect on your style today?
At first it was Tomaz at Diablo Tattoo here in Stockholm. He showed me the basics and helped me into the business. Then Porky Pete and Jolly Jonny from my present studio took over and showed me more about traditional tattooing. Both of those guys take tattooing old school to a new level. That showed me that you don’t have to do what is expected. Today my style is still evolving with more and more motion and detailing in my motives
I guess you could say Tattoo’s have become accepted in today’s society, possibly even expected, obviously there being more people for you to tattoo is a good thing, but do you think there is a downside to it?
The downside is that everyone wants to be a tattooer these days, without having to put in the hard work. And yes it is hard work. Not the rock’n’roll star life you see on TV.
How do you think certain “reality” tattoo shows on TV have effected tattooing on a broad scale?
It definitely has gotten more people interested in my favourite art form, not necessarily in a good way though.
What’s been pumping through your speakers lately?
Old style Rhythm and Blues from the 40s and 50s
Greatest accomplishment as an artist/ tattooist?
Making people a bit more happy
No doubt you have seen some pretty fucked tattoo’s in your time, what is the worst tattoo you’ve ever seen?
Hahaha yes! I think I have to go with a fantastic attempt to go a portrait of a beautiful girl. Just google “ugly portrait tattoos” and see for yourself. Haha
Favourite place to kick it?
At Vampire Lounge. The best cocktails in town!
What are your thoughts on the resurgence of traditional tattooing?
I just love it. We have some really good traditional tattooers here is Sweden that do the coolest stuff.
What was your first tattoo, and who did it?
It was a pattern that i’m removing now. Made by the apprentice of the legendary Doc Forest called Morty.
What inspires you to create?
My clients and their strange ideas!
What’s in your pockets right now?
Coins, a comb, my wallet and a memory stick
What are your views/opinions on the World and Society today?
It’s going too fast
Name 5 things you couldn’t live without.
My wife
Food
Tattooing
Fun
Friends
How much has tattooing changed since you began, and where do you see it going in the future?
I haven’t been tattooing for such a long period of time but it seem to be going more towards realistic, colour and custom. So my advice to aspiring artists is work hard, because a lot of tattooers are really goooood.
Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.
Australia – Really big country, nice beaches, big cities and fantastic wild life. Good
rockabilly bands and great traditional tattooers from what i’ve seen
Kevin Rudd – Who? (Exactly!! – Ben)
America – Home of the blues. Just went there for my honey moon
Obama – The president right?
Religion – Leads to wars
Time – Good thing to help you keep track of stuff
Greed – Sad to see
Humanity – Mostly nice
Peace – That would be something
Freedom – Is sweet
Tattooing – My passion and job
Art – Expression
Life – Must exist somewhere else as well
Steve Whittenberger
I’ve gotta say, i fucking love it when i find an artist like Steve, and the simple reason for that is because the calibre of his art work and tattooing speak for themselves, i don’t feel like i need to say another thing past this point. Enjoy.
Thank you for your time dude, what’s been happening?
I’ve been staying busy wandering the US like a gypsy this past year. I got to tattoo with some amazing people and had some really good times. Now I’m getting ready to settle in a bit this year and really try to push myself artistically. I think it’s gonna be a big year.
For those who don’t know, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Steve Whittenberger, I’m 26 and have been tattooing 8 years. I spend most of my time painting or riding my bicycle when I’m not tattooing. I feel the need to travel constantly. I’m a pretty simple guy.
How does a typical day in your life usually unfold?
Lately my days start off with waking up as late as I can before I have to be at the shop, riding my bike to the shop, tattooing all day then heading home to paint and watch the Discovery channel. Occasionally I’ll go grab some beers with friends
What initially got you involved in art, and how did that lead you in to becoming a tattooist?
Art has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. I was definitely the kid who kept to himself while drawing all over my school papers. Then I had the pretty typical teenage rebellion and started listening to punk rock and playing in bands. Tattooing just seemed like the next best step so I jumped in with both feet and have been pushing on ever since.
Favourite medium to work with apart from tattooing and why?
I’m 100% a watercolor guy. I love everything about it and can usually get the results I want. I’m not patient enough for oils but I’d definitely like to try them more. I was always taught starting off that tattooing and watercolor go hand in hand so thats why I started them. I was painting flash and small traditional paintings. I think the two are pretty closely linked. I know they’ve both definitely helped with my progression in the other.
Who taught you to tattoo, and how have they had any effect on your style today?
I learned to tattoo under a guy named Buz Bailey. He was an old biker guy and it was an old biker style shop. I learned the basics and will always be greatful for that but I truly think I owe what I’m doing to the guys working at Rock-a-Billy Tattoo when I first got there. I was really shown what tattoos are supposed to look like and what can be done with them by guys like Dave Poole, PL Serrano, Nic Montgomery and Nate Diaz. I owe all of those guys so much.
I guess you could say Tattoo’s have become accepted in today’s society, possibly even expected, obviously there being more people for you to tattoo is a good thing, but do you think there is a downside to it?
Its being cheapened and overcrowded. Tattooing is a sacred thing. There’s a ton of tattooers now who don’t understand their roots or respect the people who laid the path for us now. Its our responsibility as tattooers to take care of those people as much as we can and show them we’re grateful. I also sometimes get frustrated when tattooing almost gets treated as a novelty now. Soccer Moms bring their kids to conventions not to get tattooed but because its a real life reality show. But all in all I guess at the end of the day as long as they’re getting tattooed and good tattooers are making livings that’s all that really matters.
How do you think certain “reality” tattoo shows on TV have effected tattooing on a broad scale?
I think its definitely made it more acceptable and opened our secret world up to everyone so in a way its kind of sad. But at the same time I understand people have families to support and money runs the world so I can’t say anything bad about those people. Some of them are even really great people and amazing artists. I just wish the tattoo customer would figure out that reality shows aren’t real. That would make my job a little easier. Then people wouldn’t expect back pieces in one sitting and to get it done as a walk in.
What’s been pumping through your speakers lately?
I’ve got a pretty regular rotation of the newest Killswitch Engage album, anything Circa Survive, anything from Cursive, and Secret and Whisper’s “Great White Whale”.
Greatest accomplishment as an artist/ tattooist?
It’s something new every day. I’ve had some pretty amazing opportunities thanks to this job and hopefully they keep coming.
No doubt you have seen some pretty fucked tattoo’s in your time, what is the worst tattoo you’ve ever seen?
They come in everyday. People get the most jacked up tattoos just because they’re free or cheap. It’s absurd. Every single day I see tattoos with misspelled words or they’re backwards. Just the worst crap. Its job security though I guess, polishing turds.
Favourite place to kick it?
It depends on the mood I’m in. Sometimes I’m a homebody, other times I love going out. South Florida has a pretty lively night life so there’s a lot going on. As far as favourite cities to hang out in I’d say here in South Florida or New York. I love New York.
What are your thoughts on the resurgence of traditional tattooing?
It’s good and bad. It rules that people are looking back to the roots and respecting the tradition of things. At the same time though its bad that people are more or less regurgitating the same tattoo over and over again. I think people need to really research what they’re doing and find out the beginnings of what they’re trying to do instead of just hopping on the internet and doing whatever the latest cool guy tattooer is doing.
What was your first tattoo, and who did it?
My good friend Damon Burns tattooed Roy Lichtenstein’s “Pistol” on my arm. Still got it.
What inspires you to create?
I think I get inspired most by seeing others be creative, whether its painting or music or cooking or whatever. It gets me excited when I meet really creative people and makes me want to push myself harder. I usually am at my most creative while listening to music as well.
What’s in your pockets right now?
Chapstick, money, and a pack of gum
What are your views/opinions on the World and Society today?
I think everyone is doing a pretty good job of messing things up for the generations to come.
Name 5 things you couldn’t live without.
Tattooing, painting, music, friends, and Dr. Pepper.
Advice to aspiring artists/tattooists?
It’s a long hard road and it’s not like on TV so make sure you really truly are ready to put your whole self into it 100%
Anything in the mix or coming up that we should know about?
Not really. I’m back at Rock-A-Billy Tattoo and I’m gonna try and hit it hard this year and really push myself. I think it’s gonna be a great year.
Steve Says:
Life is too short to spend all your time worrying about what the next guy is doing
Word association, you know the deal, say whatever comes to your mind when you read the word.
Australia – Kangaroos. I would love to visit. I hear great things.
Kevin Rudd – Australia
America – Home. Also, the “Team America, World Police” theme song pops straight into my head
Obama – president
Religion – no sir, I don’t like it
Time – never enough
Greed – the worst!
Humanity – we’re screwed!
Peace – “all we are saaaaying, is give peace a chance!”
Freedom – my life motto, Live Free!
Tattooing – a cruel, but wonderful Mistress
Art – My whole life
Life – gotta love it
Happiness – friends, family and art