Meet Nando, a talented and passionate tattoo artist whose career spans over a decade. Nando is someone who has turned his love for art into a lifelong vocation, creating unique and meaningful works for his clients. His journey to success wasn't easy, but through perseverance, self-belief, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, he has become one of the most respected artists in his field. In this interview, Nando shares his story, reveals the secrets of his craft, and explains what tattoo art means to him. Get to know this amazing artist and discover what inspires him every day.
Tell us a little about yourself. Why did you decide to become a tattoo artist? What were you doing before tattooing?
- After graduating from art high school and entering Kyung Hee University of Art, I studied abroad for two years in Madrid, Spain. I saw many people's tattoos during my time there. That's when I became interested in "the tattoo that remains on their body for life." When I returned to Korea, I started learning tattooing by myself. I believe all paintings and artworks can be transformed into tattoos. Through many trials and errors, I developed my tattooing skills and turned it into an art form.
How did your career start? Who was your teacher? Were there any difficulties in mastering this profession?
- I started tattooing on my own and worked hard to break away from conventional tattoo styles. There were many challenges at first. When I began tattooing 14 years ago, people's perception of tattoos was very different from today. But I believed I could change this perception, so I spent all my time drawing and tattooing, making my work visible to many people.
Is tattooing art, work, or something else for you?
- Tattoos are my job, but they are also an art form that completes me.
You excel in a variety of tattoo styles. Do you consider yourself a versatile artist? And why did you choose this path for yourself?
- I spent 10 years working on tattoos every day and developing my skills. I graduated from art college and have a strong interest in fine art. I strive to be a good artist in many ways. Tattoos are a part of art and the art that is most physically close to people. It's hard to resist such an attractive form of art.
What tattoo styles do you prefer the most, and why?
- I prefer small and delicate tattoos, also known as fine line tattoos, because they allow for intricate details and personal meanings.
In your portfolio, there are a lot of works focused on fixing old tattoos. Can you share your approach to such projects? How do your clients react when they see a renewed version of their old tattoos?
- I've done a lot of work fixing old or imperfect tattoos. Initially, I avoided it and focused on my own artwork. But I realized that many people want to heal emotionally by covering their old tattoos. So, I started doing cover-up tattoos to positively impact people. It’s a great pleasure to see the happiness of those who receive my cover-up tattoos.
You also work on an extremely small scale. How challenging is it to work in such a small size? And in your opinion, why do your clients prefer miniature works?
- Many people have a fear of getting tattoos, often a fear of failure. Small tattoos can be more detailed and delicate, occupying a small space on the skin. Customers often give personal meaning to these small tattoos. They can place various detailed tattoos in many places on their bodies without feeling overwhelmed by a large tattoo.
What is the most important aspect of tattooing for you?
- Since tattoos are engraved on the skin, hygiene is extremely important. Tattoos are permanent, so careful selection is crucial for both customers and artists. I always create my work with the mindset that it's being engraved on my own body.
Do you have favorite tattoos, clients, projects, or perhaps some unusual stories in your career?
- I specialize in small and delicate tattoos, particularly pet tattoos. It brings me great joy to see the happiness of pet owners who get tattoos of their beloved pets that have passed away. Tattooing my artwork on their bodies and seeing their joy makes me love this profession even more.
Do you travel a lot? Where have you been already, and where do you feel most comfortable?
- I have traveled to many countries. I always feel most comfortable when I travel to Spain, where I lived for two years.
Do you participate in tattoo conventions? Tell us about your experience.
- I was invited to a tattoo convention, but I didn't participate.
Are there tattoo artists or artists who inspire you? Whose work do you follow, and do you have any favorites?
- I am inspired by all the tattoo artists I encounter online. Sometimes, I get a lot of inspiration from my students too. I also appreciate fine art and have recently been inspired by James Jean.
How do you assess your popularity? And in your opinion, how can it be measured?
- I gauge my popularity by the number of people who contact me to learn my skills and by the approximately 200 artists I have taught. Additionally, my Instagram followers and the reactions to my posts are good indicators.
What is the most important thing in your career as a tattoo artist? What goals do you set for yourself?
- Trust and confidence that comes from honesty are crucial for gaining customers' trust. My goal is to continue creating artwork and tattoos for the rest of my life. This, to me, is success.
Share your creative plans for the near future.
- I want to open a personal art exhibition featuring my art paintings.
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