SACRED BODY ART

In the old days, tattoos weren’t just ink on skin. They were stories, rituals, and symbols passed down through generations. Tattoos were a form of art deeply rooted in culture, identity, and history. They were personal, significant, and often connected to specific moments in a person’s life.

Back then, the art of tattooing wasn’t something you could just find anywhere. You didn’t scroll through hundreds of designs on Instagram or Pinterest. Tattoos were earned, chosen carefully, and were a true reflection of an individual’s journey. It was about the process, the meaning, and the connection to the artist who understood the craft.

The tools were simple, but the skill was profound. Tattooing was about precision, tradition, and respect for the art itself. You could feel the history behind every needle, every line, and every shade of ink. And let me tell you, there was something powerful about the bond between an artist and a client when they sat together, creating something permanent on the skin that had deep meaning.

But today, tattooing is something different. The internet and social media have completely reshaped the way people approach tattoos. We’ve moved from art being an intimate experience, to an instant gratification culture. People don’t come in with the same reverence or understanding for what a tattoo truly means. Instead, they scroll, pick a design from a grid of thousands, and often expect something quick, trendy, and ‘Instagram-worthy.’

Tattooing has evolved into something more akin to a fashion statement than a cultural or personal rite. Thanks to the rise of social media, the art of tattooing has become heavily influenced by fleeting trends. What’s cool today may be forgotten tomorrow, and with it, the true essence of the craft starts to get lost.

But even with all these changes, I still believe there’s a place for the old ways. As long as people come to me for a tattoo that’s meaningful to them—one that connects with them on a deeper level—I will always honor the tradition of tattooing. No matter how much the world changes around us, the real meaning of a tattoo will always remain timeless. It’s not just ink on skin; it’s part of who we are.

“Tattooing is an art, not a race. It’s a craft that takes years to perfect. But more than that, it's about respect. Respect for the tradition, the tools, and—most importantly—the person sitting in front of you. This process is intimate, personal, and sacred. It’s not just about putting ink on skin; it's about creating a piece of art that will carry meaning for a lifetime.”

“Before we even start, we talk. We connect. I listen to my client, ask about their story, what they want, and why they want it. Tattoos aren’t just designs to me—they’re stories. Every piece has meaning, even if it’s something as simple as a symbol, a memory, or a piece of tradition.”

“I don’t rush this part. I want to understand the purpose behind the tattoo. In traditional tattooing, meaning matters—whether it’s a personal connection or a cultural symbol, everything has its place. Once we’ve figured out the concept, I take that story and transform it into a design. Not just any design, but one that’s unique, timeless, and tailored to the person it’s for.”

“Now, when I sketch, I follow the principles of traditional tattooing—bold lines, solid colors, clear shapes. The design isn’t just for looks; it needs to be something that will stand the test of time. I work with the flow of the body, placing each element where it naturally fits. You see, traditional tattooing is not just about the design; it’s about how it fits into the person wearing it.”

“When the design is ready, we move on to the real work. I take the time to prepare—set up the station, check everything twice. There’s no rushing in this process. Every line must be perfect. I want my work to last, to hold up through time. A tattoo isn’t just for now; it’s for life.”