Step into the mesmerizing realm of tattoo artistry as we present an exclusive interview with Zvee, a visionary artist who continually pushes the boundaries of creativity and innovation. With over seven years of industry experience, Zvee's journey from childhood doodles with crayons to becoming a renowned tattoo artist in Seoul, Korea, is truly inspirational.
In this detailed conversation, we'll delve into Zvee's unique perspective on tattooing, viewing it not merely as a profession, but as a profound means of self-expression and connection. Explore the themes of love and family that prominently feature in Zvee's personal list of inspirations, and gain insight into the meticulous process involved in bringing their designs to life.
How long have you been into tattooing? And how did you come to be a tattoo artist?
- I have been tattooing for 7 years. My art journey goes way back to when I was a kid, just doodling with crayons and paper. As I grew up, my love for art got stronger, and I started trying out different styles and materials. When I was studying furniture design, I really got into drawing and design, and people started noticing my creative side. That's when the idea of tattooing really caught my interest. In 2018, I decided to give it a shot, switching from traditional art to tattooing.
Where are you currently working?
- I'm working in Seoul, Korea.
Is tattooing for you art, a job, or something else?
- Everything. Haha, it seems to be quite a serious answer. I think tattooing isn't just about making art — it's also about connecting with all sorts of people. I feel like there's more to it than just work.
Your tattoos are very unusual, to the point where we're even unsure if they can be categorized into any modern styles. What (or who) inspired you to this? And how would you describe your style?
- When I was young, I've always enjoyed watching animation and doodling along with it. I believe my upbringing has had a significant impact on my current artistic style. Inspiration often strikes me when I observe various animation elements and other unique aspects.
Miniature tattoos are the hallmark of Korean tattoo artists. But everyone has their own reasons for this choice. Could you tell us why you decided to focus on miniatures?
- I really want to talk about my perspective on miniature tattoos. My journey into the world of tattoo artistry began amidst the hallowed halls of a specialized blackwork and largework tattoo studio. It was within this immersive environment that I first dared to express my passion for color tattoos — a pivotal moment that sparked a journey of exploration and innovation. As I delved deeper into the realm of tattooing, my horizons expanded through immersive guest work experiences across Europe, the US, and Thailand. It was during these travels that I encountered a prevailing perception of small color tattoos as a nascent genre, often met with skepticism and curiosity. The recurring refrain of "Is that really a tattoo?" served as a catalyst for introspection, prompting me to examine the evolving landscape of tattoo artistry.
Over the span of seven transformative years in the industry, I have had the privilege of crossing paths with a diverse array of individuals, each offering unique insights into the art and craft of tattooing. Among them are steadfast clients whose unwavering support and feedback have been invaluable in shaping my artistic journey. While some adhere staunchly to the notion of traditional tattoos as the pinnacle of correctness, I challenge this narrow perspective. The emergence of mini tattoos, often dismissed for their purported disregard of the body's contours and healing process, belies a deeper truth: advancements in tattoo machines and inks have ushered in a new era of color vibrancy and longevity. Furthermore, the fixation on rigid criteria neglects the fluidity and dynamism inherent in artistic expression, stifling creativity and innovation.
I aim to provoke thought and ignite conversation about the evolving landscape of tattoo artistry. By challenging preconceived notions and embracing the boundless possibilities of color, line, and form, I seek to empower both clients and artists to transcend conventional constraints and embrace the true essence of tattooing as a medium of self-expression and storytelling.
What are the themes or characters at the top of your personal list?
- I would say love and family.
What is the most important aspect of tattooing for you?
- Demand for color tattoos remains robust in the global market, despite the enduring popularity of traditional styles across various regions. I take immense satisfaction in the recognition of my work as "unique" by clients, a testament to the years of dedication poured into cultivating my distinctive artistic voice. I've been committed to continual growth and evolution, consistently refining my craft with each intricate design and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
Tell us about the most challenging project in your career.
- Looking ahead, I'm driven by a relentless curiosity and a thirst for artistic exploration. While my tattoo style has evolved over time, I remain dedicated to honing my skills and engaging with diverse artistic genres. The future holds boundless possibilities, and I'm eager to embark on new creative ventures, pushing the boundaries of my artistry and embracing the ever-evolving landscape of tattooing.
Do you offer training or masterclasses for tattoo artists?
- I already had experience teaching someone and believe I could share my know-how.
What else are you passionate about besides tattooing?
- Moving forward, I'm eager to explore new avenues of creativity and connect with artists from diverse backgrounds. This experience has not only reinforced my dedication to my art but also reminded me of the profound impact it can have on others. Here's to embracing the journey ahead with open arms and an unwavering commitment to artistic expression.
What motivates you to create and grow? What career goals do you set for yourself?
- I am a person who values continual personal growth. My drive to evolve stems from various sources, including financial aspirations, self-realization, and familial considerations. I actively seek out catalysts for growth in my environment and pursue them diligently. I hold the belief that the essence of being an artist lies in portraying the environment that shapes one's identity and evolving alongside it.
Could you tell us if you've had any unusual collaborations with other tattoo artists or brands outside the tattoo industry in your career?
- I received offers from several brands. In particular, the design work at LG Imprintu and collaboration with Lazy Studio are my most recent ventures. LG Imprintu is a tattoo printing machine developed by LG, one of the most renowned groups in Korea. It was an honorable opportunity to have my design printed on a new machine that showcases cutting-edge technology. Despite the abundance of tattoo artists in Korea, only 18 received offers, and objectively, I believe my design was popular.
Later, Lazy Studio proposed a collaboration with me as a company that produces tattoo stickers in a different way than LG. Lazy Studio's products are available for purchase both in their own stores and online marketplaces. Furthermore, the company has established a presence on prominent Korean online and offline platforms such as 29cm, W Concept, Handsome EQL, KT&G, Lotte Department Store, Ananti, and Oliveyoung.
Do you have experience with solo exhibitions?
- Speaking of my exhibitions, my journey began with my first exhibition in Milan in 2016 while I was attending art college. There, I experienced my first exhibition while also designing furniture.
Afterward, I started tattooing in 2018, and the very next year, in 2019, I participated in the first tattoo exhibition held in Korea. Despite having only learned tattooing for over a year, I had the honor of participating in the exhibition. It brought me immense joy.
Following that, I became very busy living a life as a guest artist, traveling back and forth between Korea and overseas. Then, I ended up giving a lecture at Yant Studio, resulting in an exhibition in New York this year.
The message I wanted to convey revolves around an essential question about tattoos:
"I learned various tattoo styles at the black & gray studio, but my heart has always leaned towards colors. Specifically, I admire the aesthetic beauty embedded in objects. While exploring various types of tattoo work, what consistently brings me joy and charm is the diverse creations. I've noticed that tattoo artists specializing in traditional, Japanese, black and gray, and Chicano styles often overlook the genre with the keywords like 'cute, small'. Many times, I've heard people question, "Is it a tattoo?" This question always lingers in my mind, making me ponder the essence of tattoo art. Then, what is tattoo? In this evolving era, both customers and tattooists are pursuing the aesthetic beauty of tattoos, ushering in positive changes. Over my 7 years in this field, I've witnessed my own growth and that of my customers, drawn towards the genre with the keywords 'cute, small'."
I'm happy to be able to share this message again.
