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?
- Estou trabalhando em Seul, Coreia do Sul.
Para você, o tattooing é arte, trabalho ou algo mais?
- Tudo. Haha, parece uma resposta séria. Acho que o tattooing não é só sobre fazer arte — também é sobre se conectar com diferentes pessoas. Eu me sinto que há mais nisso do que apenas trabalho.
Seus tattoos são muito únicos, ao ponto de até questionar se podem ser classificados em qualquer estilo moderno. O que (ou quem) inspirou você a isso? E como você descreveria seu estilo?
- Quando eu era jovem, sempre gostei de assistir animações e desenhar junto com elas. Acredito que minha formação tem impacto significativo no meu estilo artístico atual. A inspiração frequentemente me atinge quando observo diferentes elementos de animações e outras coisas únicas.
Os tattoos miniaturizados são o marco dos artistas de tattoo coreanos. Mas todos têm suas próprias razões para essa escolha. Poderia nos dizer por que você decidiu se concentrar em miniaturas?
- Eu realmente quero falar sobre minha perspectiva sobre tatuagens miniaturas. Meu caminho na arte das tatuagens começou entre as salas sagradas de uma estúdio especializado em tatuagem de blackwork e largework. Foi nesse ambiente imersivo que eu primeiramente ousou expressar minha paixão por tatuagens coloridas — um momento decisivo que desencadeou uma jornada de exploração e inovação. À medida que mergulhei mais no mundo das tatuagens, meus horizontes se expandiram através de experiências de trabalho como convidado em diferentes partes da Europa, dos EUA e da Tailândia. Durante essas viagens, percebi uma percepção predominante de tatuagens coloridas pequenas como um gênero em formação, frequentemente recebidas com ceticismo e curiosidade. A frase recorrente de "Isso realmente é uma tatuagem?" serviu como um catalisador para a introspecção, me incentivando a examinar a paisagem em constante evolução da arte das tatuagens.
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:
"Aprendi vários estilos de tatuagem na studio black & gray, mas meu coração sempre se inclinou pelas cores. Especificamente, admiro a beleza estética embutida em objetos. Enquanto explorava diversos tipos de trabalho de tatuagem, o que sempre me traz alegria e charme é as criativas diversas. Notei que artistas de tatuagem especializados em estilos tradicionais, japoneses, black and gray e Chicano frequentemente ignoram o gênero com palavras-chave como 'cute, small'. Muitas vezes, ouvi pessoas questionar, "É uma tatuagem?" Esta pergunta sempre me permanece na mente, fazendo-me refletir sobre a essência da arte da tatuagem. Então, o que é uma tatuagem? Nesse mundo em constante evolução, tanto os clientes quanto os artistas de tatuagem buscam a beleza estética das tatuagens, trazendo mudanças positivas. Durante os 7 anos nesse campo, tive a oportunidade de ver meu próprio crescimento e o dos meus clientes, atraindo para o gênero com as palavras-chave 'cute, small'."
Estou feliz em poder compartilhar esta mensagem novamente.
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