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t’s been another exciting, adrenaline-fueled excursion into tattoo culture and the stories that surround it. And you may have had a slight case of déjà vu when you set your eyes on this month’s cover. Why wouldn’t you?
Although it’s been a while, Kat Von D is no stranger to Inked Magazine or its cover.
It could be argued that Von D is the most well-known tattooed female in modern U.S. history. It was nearly 20 years ago when the tattoo artist turned heads on TLC’s “Miami Ink” and ultimately landed her own show, “LA Ink,” soon afterward. It was where she welcomed viewers into the fascinating world of L.A. tattoo shops and the clientele getting inked there. Along the way, she built her personal brand, made headlines, and exposed stereotypes and perceptions of inked bodies.
In a candid interview, Von D offered Inked a closer look at her life today, sharing insights into her recent years, including shifting focus toward her music career, her fullbody blackout tattoos, and the things that bring her joy.
Besides our coverage of the inked beauty that is Von D, we’re treating you to a wide scope of people, places, and products that fit effortlessly in tattoo culture. Singer, entrepreneur, and “Ink Master” host Joel Madden, country music star Carly Pearce, and standup comedian Jo Koy took a break from the red carpet to share stories with Inked. As you flip through the pages, you’ll find coverage about bourbon, beach clubs, and Japanese-style bars, as well as deep dives into the lives of influential artists and insights into tattoo copyright laws.
Whether the tattoos are extensive, slight, or only in the imagination, the fascination of tattoo culture is widespread, and we’re thrilled to unveil and enlighten Inked readers with our latest discoveries.
Darrin Austin Publisher
PUBLISHER Darrin Austin
VP OF PRINT MEDIA Toby Thompson
VP OF OPERATIONS Tianna Martin
VP OF ADVERTISING Christa Lebar
PR/MARKETING MANAGER Carson Leathers
GRAPHIC DESIGN Fanie van Niekerk
MANAGING EDITOR Amy Higgins
SOCIAL MEDIA Julia Cancilla / Mina Eren Ozgu
OFFICE MANAGER/PENNSYLVANIA Jami Pearlman
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FULFILLMENT Theresa Jones
VIDEOGRAPHER/EDITORS Sammy Martel
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Annie Stopak / Kellie Speed / Tami Austin / Katie Sawyer
Simon Roberts / Miguel Costa / Jason Murray / Dawn Wilson
Jillian Dara / Matt Chappell / Si Si Penaloza / Nicole Stover
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jason Goodrich / Ryan Pfluger / Dave Laus / Christopher Kolk
ADVERTISING Kristine Mcguire
LOCATIONS
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FORWARD THINKING
The Tarform Vera
Behold the bold beauty and power of the Tarform Vera electric motorcycle. The revolutionary electric motorcycle redefines versatility and elevates the art of traditional design. With speeds over 85 mph, zero to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and a 100-mile range, Vera riders will certainly feel the thrill whether hitting the highway or riding the road less traveled. Resist mainstream, gas-powered motorcycles and imagine a riveting all-electric experience in ravishing form.
LISTEN UP
Devialet Phantom I Bluetooth Speaker
Experience the unparalleled splendor of the Phantom I speaker, a revolutionary leap in sound technology. Meticulously designed to deliver a rich sound you can feel at your core. Devialet wraps up the sound quality in one word: implosive. Expand your horizons with the option to sync your entire home or enjoy stereo sound for a riveting experience. Powered by the Devialet Intelligence Processor, Phantom I ensures optimal performance and exceptional high-resolution audio.
COLLABORATION
Lamborghini x Master & Dynamic
Once again, Lamborghini and Master & Dynamic teamed up to create a third collection of premium sound tools, featuring MW08 Active Noise-Cancelling True Wireless Earphones, MG20 Wireless Gaming Headphones, and MW75 Active Noise-Cancelling Wireless Earphones. The latter was recently awarded a 2023 Red Dot Design Award in Product Design. The panel of judges said in a statement, “the MW75’s contemporary design language, as well as the choice of materials — aluminum, lambskin leather, and high-gloss polished tempered glass — come together harmoniously.” Kudos one would expect from the luxury design duo.
STYLE STEPPIN’
Chloé Lauren Sneakers
Elevate your active daywear with the Lauren lace-up sneaker from Chloé. Comfort and beauty were top of mind when creating the Lauren shoe family, with flexible insoles and durable yet delicate stitching. The French luxury designer interweaved linen and calfskin materials and completed the look of the sneakers with a Chloé ribbon and scalloped rubber midsole exterior, offering an elegant textured presentation. Chloé Lauren sneakers fit true to European size and should be treated with special care.
MOTO
Ducati Diavel 1260
Brawny lines and an imposing front face bring out the strong and restless style of the new Diavel 1260. The wide air inlets and the trellis frame complete the elegantly framed engine, the true powerhouse core of this bike. The S version, featuring the coal black livery and Öhlins suspension, sparks the smoldering mood of the new Diavel’s sophisticated edge. Ergonomics come together in harmony: both maxi-naked and aggressive stance, and yet still a muscle cruiser.
ELECTRIC
Hispano Suiza Carmen Electric Hypercar
The Hispano Suiza Carmen is fully electric, with a T-shaped 80-kWhr lithium-ion polymer battery pack powering a pair of rearmounted motors rated at 503 hp each for 1,006 total. Encased in a carbon-fiber shell, the battery port is designed to make upgrading to newer chemistries and technologies easy. Top speed is limited to 155 mph, and range on the Euro NEDC cycle is estimated at just under 250 miles.
DESIGN
LG’s transparent OLED TV
The future has arrived in a dreamy transparent presentation with LG’s Transparent OLED Displays. Crafted with state-of-theart technology to maximize potential, each product is designed to meet your specific needs, offering high-definition and ultrahigh-definition content displays with LG’s powerful and reliable DS media players. Perfect for retail shops, restaurants, and offices, LG’s vibrant LED backlit displays feature vibrant colors, touch sensors, and tempered glass, a key feature for products others can’t wait to get their hands on.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
Mercedes-Maybach Eyewear
Introducing THE CREATOR I, a stunning fusion of style, innovation, and sustainability. Crafted from sustainably sourced natural horn and ultralight titanium, these sunglasses personify refinement, integrating Mercedes-MAYBACH’s iconic automotive aesthetics. Designed in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener, THE CREATOR I offers an audacious new look in eyewear. Handcrafted by MAYBACH Icons of Luxury, these sunglasses feature 22-karat gold, platinum, and 18-karat rose gold elements. With sweeping contours and a striking bridge detail, they echo the elegance of MAYBACH’S’s most magnificent vehicles. Available in 10 irresistible colorways, they are the ultimate expression of contemporary design.
TIME IS UP
Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC Watch
Experience the epitome of luxury with the Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC Watch. This exquisite timepiece features a 40 mm octagonal titanium case and a skeletal dial showcasing the iconic 3 o’clock logo. The transparent case back and black ceramic winding crown add to its allure. With a three-hand movement, three-blade folding buckle, and water resistance up to 3 ATM, it’s as functional as it is stylish. Handcrafted in Switzerland, this watch embodies Bvlgari’s legacy of exquisite craftsmanship and innovative design, reflecting its rich Roman heritage.
DOLCE & GABBANA
The Dolce & Gabbana Spring/Summer 2024 women’s sunglasses collection is captivating with seductive contours and superior elegance. D&G puts Miley Cyrus and actormodel Matthew Nozska in the spotlight as this campaign’s provocative couple, who clandestinely beckon buyers behind tinted lenses and a ruffled bedsheet backdrop. In the imagery, D&G aspired to emphasize the mood of an “unforgettable night” and the “morning after,” offering its audience a window of intrigue while highlighting the collection’s selection.
unglasses can make or break any wardrobe during outdoor engagements, whether at the pool, beachside, or hitting the town. In fact, some would go as far to say sunglasses are the ultimate summertime accessory — bewitching a bikini, spicing up a sundress, or concealing work-worn eyes. With eye-popping color palettes, assorted construction techniques, and diverse trimmings, the selection of shades in 2024 is sizzling. A retro ethos looms large across collections with aviators, cat eyes, wraparounds, and diverse tints headlining the show. From oversized to pint-sized and everything else under the sun, your favorite designers are hitting the mark with dazzling sunglasses collections.
DITA
DITA’s designer sunglasses offerings are enticing, showcasing copious configurations and colors. The California-based company drew inspiration for the collection from surrealist art, stating the spring/summer collection “promises to captivate fashion aficionados with its bold yet sophisticated aesthetic, setting new standards for timeless elegance.” Each piece is elaborately crafted with wire cores and proprietary hinges for optimum functionality. With flattering cat-eye frames, geometric configurations, and delicate embellishments, the collection is quite the spectacle.
TORY BURCH
Behold boundless color, stunning frames, and expert craftsmanship in Tory Burch’s latest spring/summer sunglasses collection. An advocate for the furtherance of women’s empowerment, Burch elevates feminine fashion authority with a sundry of stunning sunglasses, evoking representation of the diversity and beauty of the female spirit. From sporty soft-hued specs to oversized ebony eyewear and multitoned acetate shades, ladies of all dispositions have a versatile assortment to set their sights on.
LOEWE
Flaunt your fashion sensibilities with superstar-worthy sunglasses by Loewe. For 2024, designers at the 178-year-old luxury design house unveiled a collection of head-turning shades, sure to make Loewe lovers stand out from the crowd. Think beveling, multi-layers, jewels, tortoiseshells, flowers, masks, and faux marble; shades of yellow, green, camel, burgundy, white, and black; and all with the attention to detail Loewe takes pride in with its ongoing commitment to craft.
VERSACE
The illustrious Versace continues to amaze with its 2024 line of sunglasses. The bold and beautiful selection offers the same thrill of designs depicted in years past, with moxie, magnificence, and practicality taking the catbird seat. Aviators, shields, geometric designs, and more pepper the collection with lens colors ranging from soft grays, golds, blues, and pinks to dark gray. Versace sunglasses allow clients to be fearless or subdued with eyewear befitting their sense of style.
hen Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley first met on the set of “The Vampire Diaries” in 2009, they never could have imagined their bond would lead them to create a top whiskey.
After playing brothers Damon and Stefan Salvatore in The CW’s popular supernatural series for the next eight years, the two formed an inseparable friendship along with an on-and-off-screen shared bromance for the popular Southern spirit.
That led them to their next role: creating Brother’s Bond Bourbon.
“The name is definitely a nod to the brotherhood we share for sure,” Somerhalder said in a recent phone interview. “These characters bonded a massive audience with their love of good whiskey. Whenever you saw these guys not wanting to kill each other was when they were sipping on a glass of whiskey. I’m from Louisiana and Paul is from New Jersey, but Paul fell in love with the spirit living in the South shooting the show. We blended the shit in my kitchen for over a year to get it right. It takes a lot of patience,
and is very capital and time intensive, which is why people don’t last in the whiskey business.”
Realizing they already had an enormous reach with their on-screen audience, Somerhalder and Wesley knew they wanted to create something special.
“It’s more about the feeling you get when you look at the label,” Somerhalder said. “We need togetherness more than ever now. Brother’s Bond brings people together. It’s amazing for us to realize that people are sharing their experiences together whether they are in a bar or sitting at a campground. That’s what makes us smile.”
Since launching in 2021, they have three expressions to their credit: Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey, and American Blended Rye Whiskey. The four-grain, high-rye bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years in virgin American oak barrels.
quality, nuance, and complexity” makes it stand apart from its competition. “We know it’s a well-crafted spirit,” he said. “You have to have two things to be successful and affect your consumer. You have to have a story and a quality product. You can have a great story, but if you don’t have the quality, they aren’t going to come back.”
In addition to producing an award-winning bourbon made from 100% natural ingredients from American farms, Somerhalder and Wesley have already made a name for themselves in the agricultural industry with their support of regenerative farming practices.
A portion of their proceeds are given back to support sustainable agriculture by safely transferring carbon emissions from the atmosphere to the soil to protect our natural food and water supplies.
“The future holds a lot,” Somerhalder said. “We have some new offerings in whiskeys and our regenerative whiskey that we are just about to launch. Ninety-four percent of the grains were grown using regenerative agricultural practices. It’s pretty special.”
Brother’s Bond Bourbon Original Cask Strength has already won numerous platinum and gold awards, including two impressive Double Gold wins: one at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition just last year, and the other at the New York World Spirits Competition where it was a finalist for Best in Show for straight bourbon whiskey.
“I am working more and working harder now than I ever have in my entire life,” said Somerhalder, who also runs a health and wellness brand “because life is all about balance. Building the Brother’s Bond brand has been a massive undertaking. I just want people to know we’re dudes just like you. I’m busting my ass. It’s hard work. I’m a dad; I ride a motorcycle and shit but we’re also great whiskey makers.”
Wesley agrees that creating an award-winning bourbon has been an intensive labor of brotherly love. “Becoming a bourbon maker has been an incredible and rewarding journey, with some very hard work — truly blood, sweat, and tears,” he said. “We’ve been lucky to bring together some of the greatest people in the industry to create our Brother’s Bond Bourbon and have loved hearing all the positive reviews from our consumers on what Ian and I created.”
Somerhalder believes Brother’s Bond’s “immediate approachability,
Regarding tattoos, each has a special one that, of course, just so happened to be designed by the same tattoo artist.
“First of all, this publication is badass, but I only have one tattoo,” Somerhalder said. “A tattoo is something people look at to remember things and to forget things. One of the things I realized even as a kid is we live in the past which is gone, or we live in the future that may never happen, but we never live in the present. I got a tattoo that says ‘hic et nunc,’ which is Latin for ‘here and now’ from tattoo artist Taka (Tamada) at Body Electric on Melrose.”
“I have a rose tattoo on my right shoulder that I got 15 years ago,” Wesley said. “I got it because it was a coverup of a tattoo I got when I was 16 years old that I grew out of as I got older. So, I wanted to create something that was timeless. I designed the rose with Taka Tamada who incidentally also did Ian’s tattoo. I really love it.”
Martiny’s Grand Martini / Credit Joanna Lin
motenashi, the ancient Japanese art of hospitality, may have originated with sado (tea ceremonies), but the same sincere, gracious spirit and appreciation for detail extends throughout much of Japanese culture today, including, perhaps most popularly, the country’s award-winning cocktail bars.
From highballs filled with hand-chipped, pedigreed ice to oshibori (warm towels) delivered with silver tongs, Japanese mixologists carry on the tradition of omotenashi: serving patrons with care. Now, American cohorts are following suit as Japanese-style bars pop up across the United States in places like San Francisco, where Bar Iris has earned critical attention for its artisanal cocktails inspired by Japanese culture and ingredients. In Chicago, Kumiko,
a Japanese dining bar, won a place on “The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022” list.
Notably, New York has seen an influx of Japanese bars since the 1993 opening of Angel’s Share, one of the city’s first true craft cocktail dens and an early pioneer of the trend, equipped with a staff of Japanese-trained bartenders. In recent years, disciples from Angel’s Share went on to enjoy success on both continents.
Japanese bartender Shingo Gokan, whose renowned SG Group holds the record for winning the most awards by “The World’s 50 Best Bars” and “Asia’s 50 Best Bars” with 50 cumulative honors, ran Angel’s Share for a decade as bar director before returning to Asia. This year, he opened Sip & Guzzle, a bilevel cocktail bar in his old stomping ground of Manhattan. Sip, the venue’s subterranean speakeasy inspired by 1860s Edo, serves reinterpreted cocktails from Gokan’s Tokyo bar that highlight technique-driven creations with Japanese ingredients like wagyu beef and sushi vinegar.
Tokyo native Takuma Watanabe, another Angel’s Share alum who served eight years as head bartender, now runs his acclaimed solo
project in New York City: Martiny’s. A nod to Watanabe’s favorite cocktail as well as French American sculptor Philip Martiny whose Gramercy Park studio used to occupy the bar’s three-story carriage house, the warm, inviting space exhibits all the hallmarks of the classic Ginza bar that Watanabe wanted to share with his adopted home.
“New York has a lot of amazing bars, but something was missing,” he says, “I wanted a place that was more elegant and hospitalityforward that reminded me of Japan.”
Inside Martiny’s, it’s easy to feel transported, from the soft jazz and bartenders decked
Steve Schneider of Sip & Guzzle / Credit Eric Medsker
Sip & Guzzle / Credit Eric Medsker
Takuma Watanabe / Credit Alex Staniloff
out in smartly tailored suit jackets to the thoughtful presentation and Kimura glassware, a Japanese company known for their elegant, paper-thin vessels — perfect for chilling drinks.
But not every bar is a carbon copy of the Tokyo set, nor are they all meant to be. Some, such as New York’s Bar Goto, bill themselves as New York bars with Japanese flair.
“I believe there is a difference between Japanese-inspired and Japanese-influenced bars — inspiration comes from the outside, while influence comes from within,” says Julia Momosé, co-owner of Kumiko, who was born and raised in Japan. “At the core of all great bars is the heart of hospitality. In Japanese bars, this hospitality manifests itself in nuanced ways that are often missed by those who did not grow up with the
culture of omotenashi. But it evokes a feeling that people want to experience or that bartenders want to try to recreate.”
At the heart of the experience lies what every guest comes for in the first place: cocktails. Similar to craft cocktail culture, Japanese bars place a heavy focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients prepared with razorsharp skills and a local twist (think Nikka whisky, shiso, and yuzu). Critically, every drink receives personalized attention and is prepared one by one with laser focus and consistency.
For Watanabe, preparing balanced cocktails has also required him to look beyond the bar.
“I’ve learned from bartenders, of course, but I’ve learned more from chefs,” he says, adding, “I go to a lot of different restaurants to understand the flavor profiles and
increase my palate. I like to talk to the chefs and see how they balance everything. In the Japanese way of making food, it’s not always about adding something — sometimes it’s about taking it away.”
It’s fitting then that Martiny’s offers its guests sophisticated snacks like karaage topped with caviar and scallop custard created by Wayne Cheng, whose resume includes Eleven Madison Park and Masa. Kumiko and Bar Iris, which is connected to Nisei, a Michelin-starred restaurant, also highlight creative Japanese fare.
“Bar Iris is where Chef David Yoshimura recreates his favorite dishes from his childhood while combining them with the California bounty,” says bar manager Timofei Osipenko. “A lot of our flavors and concepts are inspired by the ingredients in the kitchen, such as shichimi, hoshigaki, and tsukemono.”
With any luck, the values, quality, and tastes of Japanese bar culture will endure in the U.S. “I’m trying to educate younger bartenders as much as I can so they can grow their skills,” Watanabe says. “I want to do this — I really want to support them for the future.”
Julia Momosé of Kumiko / Credit Sammy Faze
Kumiko / Credit Sammy Faze
Timofei Osipenko of Bar Iris
Bar Iris / San Francisco
CLOUD 22 DUBAI Atlantis, The Royal
While some debate whether Cloud 22 qualifies as a beach club, its ambiance and aesthetics certainly emulate one. Perched on the 22nd floor of Atlantis The Royal Dubai, it offers stunning views, designer loungers, cabanas, daybeds, and floating beds exuding pure class and sophistication. Luxuriant defines its Gulf View Cabanas, featuring a private plunge pool and sun loungers, elevating relaxation to unparalleled heights.
Cloud 22 is well-known for its superior level of service, which helps create the most memorable moments. Guests’ needs are met by a team of hospitality professionals who make every guest feel special by catering to their every whim. The “ultra-luxury experiential resort” epitomizes fun and relaxation, blurring the lines between beachside indulgence and urban sophistication, ensuring an unforgettable lounge experience amidst Dubai’s skylines.
FONTELINA BEACH CLUB
Swim beneath Capri’s iconic Faraglioni
Situated along the rugged coastline of Capri, Italy, the Fontelina Beach Club personifies Mediterranean luxury. With its iconic blue umbrellas sprinkling the pristine shoreline, Fontelina is especially attractive to travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rugged, unspoiled coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea’s azure waters.
Carved into the cliffs beneath the renowned Faraglioni rock formations, Fontelina’s exclusive beachside oasis offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and refined elegance. Guests bask in the warmth of the Italian sun on plush sunbeds while savoring fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails served by attentive staff. Adventurous souls dive into the crystalline waters from the club’s private pier, while others indulge in pampering spa treatments with boundless views. Whether lounging in luxury or exploring the captivating surroundings, Fontelina Beach Club promises a coastal escape never to be forgotten.
HILLSIDE BEACH CLUB
Kalemya Bay, Turkey
Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Turkish Riviera, Hillside Beach Club is a haven of serenity and sophistication where you can create an unforgettable beachside experience. Pristine beaches meet green hillsides adorned with fragrant pine trees, creating a peaceful, breathtaking backdrop. Sleek lounges, stylish bars, and gourmet restaurants offer culinary delights and panoramic sea views. Winding pathways lead to secluded gardens and intimate spots for quiet contemplation. Guests can relax by indulging in spa treatments or reclining on plush sun loungers. Kick things up a notch with water sports, such as sailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking. This beach club promises a magical escape where guests can reconnect with nature and create cherished memories with their families on the Turquoise Coast.
TAO BEACH DAYCLUB
The Venetian Resort Las Vegas
Tao Beach Dayclub is located at The Venetian Resort, in the heart of vibrant and always bustling, Las Vegas. This 47,000-square-foot Asian-influenced tropical venue provides pure indulgence and is a haven of excitement. Its glistening plunge pools invite guests to cool off beneath the desert sun, while exquisite cabanas and VIP lounges provide exclusive retreats for those seeking elevated comfort.
The ambiance is electric, with pulsating beats from renowned DJs setting the mood for epic poolside parties, with special performances from acts such as Steve Aoki and Tyga performing live. Guests sip on quenching cocktails crafted by expert mixologists while soaking in the stunning views of the Strip skyline. Tao embodies the essence of Las Vegas extravagance, where every moment is a celebration of luxury and leisure.
YONA FLOATING BEACH CLUB
Royal Phuket Marina
The YONA Beach boat is a luxurious and innovative vessel, built to transport guests to an unforgettable ‘beach club’ experience. Designed with sleek lines and modern amenities, this floating oasis exudes glamour and style. The boat features spacious decks adorned with heavenly sunbeds, inviting guests to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying expansive views of the Andaman Sea and sounds from world-famous DJs. Equipped with a chic bar and dining area, the boat offers gourmet cuisine and refreshing libations, ensuring plenty of indulgence amidst the serene waters. Whether cruising along the coastline or anchored at a secluded bay, the YONA Beach boat offers an unparalleled journey of joyousness and relaxation in the stunning waters of Phuket, Thailand.
he world is Colm Dillane’s playground, and he isn’t subtle about it. The KidSuper designer recently revealed KidSuper World, an impressive 10,000 square-foot community space in Brooklyn that offers creatives access to the necessary tools to express themselves. It is a patchwork of playful yet practical parts befitting a multi-skilled artist and includes a recording studio, art gallery, print shop, photo studio, and library. And it seems anyone who ventures into the Super universe wants to play ball.
Dillane’s effervescent personality, creativity, and design sense were the building blocks for his booming career, alongside his sheer tenacity. “I think I was very good at jumping on opportunities and being fearless to try things that may or may not work,” Dillane says. His fashion superpowers were revealed in high school when he introduced his first brand, Brick Oven T-Shirts (BOTS), and sold the merch to eager classmates. He created the fantastical “Everything’s Fake Until It’s Real” Claymation runway show video when the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered Paris Fashion Week in 2020. And the collaborations are vast: Louis Vuitton, Coca-Cola, Russ, the NBA, and Stuart Weitzman, among many others.
KidSuper NYC-inspired fashion is colorful and energetic, often interweaving graphics, stitching, or collage. The 2024 autumn/ winter collection is no exception with interpretations of “String Theory” weaving across his designs, and cool blue, denim, and gradations of purple and white widely emphasized.
Dillane discusses fashion, KidSuper World, and tattoos, demonstrating his growth and mindset in his quest to dress his fashion-conscious fans with artistic focus.
AH: What do you see trending in fashion today and where is fashion heading, in your opinion?
I think niche brands are undeniably on the rise. There’s a growing demand for authenticity and individuality, with consumers gravitating toward brands that offer a unique point of view and a sense of community. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry, as we witness a shift toward more diverse and inclusive representations of style.
Tell readers about your Autumn/Winter 2024 collection. What’s the story behind this collection?
In my latest collection, I took inspiration from the imagery of a string unraveling. It’s all about celebrating craftsmanship and
artistic expression without relying on fancy tricks or special effects. I wanted to create pieces that are artistic, each telling its own story. The concept of interconnectedness, symbolized by the string motif, was the core theme that tied the whole collection together.
Who or what are your design influences?
My design influences are less about specific brands or designers and more about the people and connections from my community that shape my perspective. While I appreciate the work of various brands and designers, it’s the connections with individuals from different backgrounds that fuel my creativity and remind me of the importance of making meaningful connections in design.
What do you consider your greatest achievement as a fashion designer?
Probably the moment we secured a spot on the Paris Fashion Week calendar. We had been denied twice already but when we finally did it, it felt like a major win. I pour all of my creativity into my shows and having the FHCM (Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la mode) give us the nod felt like we had finally become the real deal. It’s like hitting the big leagues in the fashion world.
Your list of collaborations seems unending. Do you have any collaborations in the works?
We love doing collaborations, and we do a lot of them. I personally love collaborating with not always the most expected people. For example, right now Uniswap Labs and KidSuper are teaming up to put out a very pink merch collection, including shirts, hats, wallets, and a surprise item too that KidSuper has never made before. We’re also creating the SuperSwap cafe — a coffee shop attached to the KidSuper space in Brooklyn. The cafe will serve as a space for weird ideas, math rants, and all things pink.
I also teamed up with my longtime friend Eric Madonna and came on board as art director of Bar Madonna, an ItalianAmerican-inspired Williamsburg cocktail bar fusing art, fashion, and storytelling. My “Bar Madonna” painting served as the inspiration for the bar, while Madonna and design partner Studio Guia tapped his creative process — a painting parlayed onto a medium like a garment, but in this case a bar — to bring the concept to life.
Tell us about KidSuper World. What is it? Where is it? What’s inside? What prompted you to undergo this project?
KidSuper World is basically our HQ in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Inside, we’ve got a bit of everything: there’s a storefront, an art gallery, and a bunch of rooms for screenprinting, photoshoots, a podcast studio, and a recording studio. There’s a design and an art studio... There’s a lot going on. Oh, and we’re working on setting up a rooftop soccer field too — but that’s still in the works.
The idea behind KidSuper World was to create a bigger version of the apartment building where it all started 10 years ago. That place became a central hub for creatives from all over, and KidSuper World keeps that feeling going.
For example, today, we had the Uniswap Labs’ creator Hayden Adams, Mars Conte from ThriftCon, and [Dutch footballer] Ryan Babel all stop by. It’s cool to see all these different people hanging out and bouncing ideas off each other. KidSuper World is more than just a space; it’s a community where creativity thrives.
Do you have any advice for aspiring designers?
Yes. Don’t be afraid to drop product. Nothing you make now is perfect anyway, and you’ll probably hate it in a few years. Just stay alive, stay consistent as a brand. You have to continue proving yourself, and the only way to do that is by showing up and dropping product.
Do you have any tattoos? If so, do tell.
I’ve got “SUPER” on my right butt cheek. I got it done with my friend when we were 18. My friend was always scared to get tattoos and one day he said, “Let’s get it.” I was pretty surprised and knew I had to take that opportunity because he was always so hesitant. If he believed in getting it, then it was a sign to commit to another one of these crazy ideas.
I also have “Madman” tatted on the palm of my hand, a reminder to myself to keep being crazy in everything I do.
Is there anything you want to share with fans that I haven’t asked you about already?
Maybe when I’m super old I’ll get a shit ton of tattoos. People have gotten “KS” tattoos and I love seeing it. I’m just waiting for someone to get my face tatted on them.
hen you get a tattoo, the last thing you think about is who owns it. Given it’s your skin and you’re paying for a service, you presume you own it and are free to do with it as you please. However, a recent spate of lawsuits has raised myriad legal and ethical questions concerning tattoo ownership, leaving both artists and clients uncertain about what they can — and can’t — do with the artwork.
Historically, the tattoo industry operated outside the law and was not subject to the same laws and regulations as other art forms, instead relying on social norms that developed over time. As tattoos entered the mainstream, interest in associated copyright issues arose, especially when tattoos were used in advertisements and other media outlets where the original artist was not compensated.
Jimmy Hayden says when he first discovered the video game NBA2K, he was surprised to see his artwork featured prominently, mainly because nobody consulted with him about its use in the video game. Several years earlier, Hayden inked basketball superstar LeBron James with his distinctive lion head chest piece, as well as tattoos on his legs, back, and arms. James was depicted — with permission — in the NBA-themed video game. When Take-Two Interactive, the company behind the NBA2K game, refused to pay Hayden a license fee, he filed a lawsuit against it, arguing that the reproduction of his inkwork on James constituted copyright infringement. Although not the game’s focal point, the tattoo was recreated meticulously and used the same intricate details Hayden designed.
If Hayden were a musician or a graphic artist through any other medium, the creators of the video game would have been legally required to get his permission and obtain a license to use his artwork. He created the design and spent many hours affixing it to James’ body. And while he was aware
radar — the technology to recreate such detailed reproductions didn’t exist. It’s a valid argument, but while art creations are generally protected by copyright law, things get a little more complicated when the art in question is fixed to another human being.
that James would be filmed while playing basketball and perhaps featured in NBA promotional materials, he did not foresee the tattoo’s recreation in a video game.
In 2007, when much of the artwork was created, it wasn’t even on Hayden’s
Usually, copyright owners have the power to control the art, including augmenting or destroying it. Clearly, if this power extended to tattoos, we’d have some serious human rights issues at play. It seems unlikely any judge would force a client to receive laser treatments because the original artist or copyright owner wanted the tattoo destroyed, or conversely, deny the client the right to remove or augment the tattoo should they choose. It is generally understood that, although the artist owns the copyright, an implied license exists for the client, which
allows them to display the tattoo without prior permission from the artist.
Samantha Robles, the popular New Yorkbased tattoo artist known as Cake, says that a number of her clients, many of whom are in the public eye, have asked her to sign release forms, making it clear that she will not sue if the artwork appears in a movie or music video. Cake explains that she is happy to sign these and doesn’t object to her work being featured in another medium.
This might change, however, if she discovers her work as the focus of a commercial endeavor, like when S. Victor Whitmill’s design was used as a major plot point in “The Hangover Part II.” Whitmill, who was the artist responsible for Mike Tyson’s distinctive facial tribal design, sued Warner Bros. over the similar-looking facial art on Ed Helms’ character in the movie, seeking an injunction to stop the release of the movie. Warner Bros. was unwilling to risk box office profits while the courts debated the merits of tattoo copyright, so it was settled out of court. Like Cake, other artists are generally more sympathetic to leveraging copyright law if it
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CREDIT STEVEN ERIXON
involves the unauthorized use of designs where a large corporation is profiting from an independent artist’s work.
This went to the heart of Hayden’s lawsuit. Take-Two Interactive reportedly took in billions in revenue, yet Hayden received nothing, despite his artwork featuring prominently in one of company’s best-selling games. Other large corporations, including Nike, Hayden explains, previously sought him out and paid him to recreate the tattoos he designed, including the limited-edition sneakers, Nike Air Max LeBron 7. Take-Two, however, did not seek a license or ask to collaborate with Hayden in recreating the work for NBA2K. In April, an Ohio jury ruled in favor of Take-Two, who argued that the inclusion of the tattoos constituted fair use as they were only used to reproduce the likeness of LeBron James.
Artist Catherine Alexander who inked WWE wrestling star Randy Orton was of a
similar view to Hayden when she sued TakeTwo over the unauthorized reproduction of Orton’s tattoos without her permission in the WWE 2K video games. Unlike Hayden, the jury in Alexander’s case found in her favor. It awarded her damages, agreeing with her argument that she did not grant Orton an implied license to copy the works and did not give him the right to sublicense copying of the tattoos.
The differing results in Hayden and Alexander’s lawsuits create uncertainty, and it seems likely that formally drawnup contracts or releases detailing who is entitled to control a tattoo’s reproduction in a commercial setting will become commonplace. Most tattoo studios already require customers to sign waivers relating to risks involving health and safety, so it’s not a huge jump to suggest copyright clauses will become standard before an artist agrees to ink a customer. Lawsuits are expensive and time consuming — working
out these issues in advance may be the best way forward, however much they might jar with traditional industry practice.
The creeping copyright litigation we see encroaching on the tattoo industry and replacing the cultural norms that governed it for so long hasn’t solely involved corporates reproducing artists’ work without permission. In 2021, photographer Jeff Sedlik filed a lawsuit against Kat Von D over the use of his Miles Davis portrait as the basis for a tattoo she inked on a friend’s arm. The case had the potential to cause havoc in the tattoo industry, where it’s standard practice for artists to use photographs as references without asking for permission or a license beforehand.
Sedlik argued that he was the owner of the copyright, and Von D did not obtain a license. The court found in Von D’s favor on the basis that she made changes to the image’s appearance from the original work — specifically the shading and shaping, and therefore had a different meaning to the original. While a collective sigh of relief echoed throughout tattoo studios upon hearing the verdict, the lawsuit didn’t provide much clarity on what issues could arise going forward when tattooing artists’ photography. After the verdict, Von D said she may never create another tattoo because her heart was crushed by the ordeal, highlighting the emotional toll lawsuits can have on those involved.
One thing seems certain: unless written copyright provisions are included in waivers, the lawsuits will keep coming. And while copyright law may not quite map onto tattoos as it does other creative mediums, we can only hope that future court decisions will show sensitivity to the competing interests of both the artists and the client.
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CREDIT ALLEF VINICIUS
ising from the ashes like a gloriously leather-clad phoenix, drenched in black eyeliner and glittery nail polish, JULIEN-K remains a testament to innovation and reinvention within the music industry. Originating from the remnants of the renowned band, Orgy, JULIEN-K embodies the visionary artistry of Ryan Shuck and Amir Derakh, two relentless explorers of the creative frontier. In an exclusive interview, Shuck provides insights into the band’s origins, its transformative journey, and ongoing project, “Dark Mode.”
The inception of JULIEN-K traces back to the slow-burning eventual dissolution of the mid-to-late-90s metal band Orgy, pointing to it as the very moment that prompted Shuck and his collaborators to embark on a journey of self-discovery and musical evolution. “JULIEN-K emerged organically from the ashes of Orgy as we sought to redefine our artistic identity,” Shuck recounts. This period of transition catalyzed the band’s growth, shaping its uniquely distinct aesthetic and sound.
Reflecting on JULIEN-K’s musical trajectory, Shuck emphasizes the band’s commitment to defying conventions and exploring uncharted musical territories. “We aimed to fuse the dark, brooding atmospheres of Depeche Mode with the raw energy of guitar-driven rock,” he explains. This innovative fusion became the cornerstone of JULIEN-K’s signature style, proudly distinguishing itself in the fast-paced nature of the constantly evolving music industry.
The burgeoning band’s early days took an unexpected turn with a fortuitous collaboration with SEGA for the Sonic the Hedgehog video game soundtrack. Ultimately, Shuck was thrust into the spotlight as the lead vocalist for JULIEN-K. “It was a pivotal moment that propelled JULIEN-K into a new realm of visibility and creative exploration,” Shuck recalls. Embracing his role as the frontman, Shuck and the band members expanded their lyrical horizons, garnering acclaim and accolades along the way, and developing somewhat of a die-hard fanbase.
JULIEN-K’s musical contributions beyond the stage didn’t just stop with everyone’s favorite little blue hedgehog in high tops. The band’s unique sound shines through prominently on soundtracks for Michael Bay’s global billion-dollar “Transformers” franchise and myriad independent films.
Shuck attributes the band’s early successes to a mere willingness to embrace diversification and adaptability. “We’ve always been drawn to
projects that push boundaries and challenge the status quo,” he says.
In challenging that status quo, one aspect of JULIEN-K’s curated identity that resonates deeply with fans is the band members’ affinity for tattoos, which Shuck describes as a form of self-expression and rebellion. “Tattoos have always been a significant part of our aesthetic and identity,” the frontman says, explaining how his tattoo collection is like capturing moments in time forever. “They serve as a visual representation of our journey and our commitment to authenticity.”
Dark Mode is the band’s current focus alongside finishing out its highly anticipated tour. The ambitious project represents a departure from previous work. “Dark Mode” is an auditory exploration of the shadows; a journey into the depths of the human psyche,” Shuck claims. Funded through a successful Indiegogo campaign, Dark Mode demonstrates JULIEN-K’s evolution and its willingness to embrace change, embodying a darker, more electro-punk feel and bringing less lyrically charged offerings to the table for eager fans to dive headfirst into.
Shuck delves into the creative process behind “Dark Mode”, describing it as a collaborative effort fueled by experimentation and introspection.
“We wanted to challenge ourselves and our audience to push the boundaries of electronic music,” he explains. The result is a sonic array that seamlessly blends darkness with pulsating dance beats, defying genre classification and captivating listeners with its raw emotion and energy.
While reflecting on JULIEN-K’s status as an outlier in the music industry, Shuck asserts, “We’ve always marched to the beat of our own drum, refusing to be confined by genre labels or industry norms.” Despite this, Shuck remains dedicated to JULIEN-K’s devoted fanbase, stressing the importance of authenticity and genuine connection.
Much of JULIEN-K’s loyal fanbase can be attributed to the fact that the band members are extremely hands-on when interacting with listeners, often recognizing familiar faces in a crowd, and personally handling community outreach endeavors themselves. JULIEN-K’s dedication to its fans is a rarity in
today’s music industry and something that should be applauded.
Shuck elaborates on the challenges of growing in the music industry, highlighting the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. “The music industry can be unforgiving at times, but we’ve learned to embrace the journey and remain true to ourselves,” he reflects. Through dedication and determination, Julien-K carved out a niche for itself, earning respect and admiration from peers and fans alike.
The saga of JULIEN-K epitomizes resilience and innovation from within the too-often rigid confines of the music industry. With “Dark Mode” lighting the way and a fervent following in tow, JULIEN-K continues to push boundaries and challenge norms, solidifying its legacy as a vanguard of electronic evolution. Through their music, tattoos, and unwavering commitment to rebellious authenticity, JULIEN-K’s bandmates stand as forces to be reckoned with in the world of electro-death-pop, inspiring countless others to embrace creativity and chart their own path in the pursuit of artistic excellence.
triding onto the Brooklyn stage in November 2023, Jo Koy immersed himself with the crowd, displaying his charismatic and infectious smile as he scanned the magnificent King’s Theatre where he recorded his 2024 Netflix special “Live from Brooklyn” — his fifth special on the esteemed network. Striding atop a stage that extended into the theater, the comedian exuded delight with the scads of grinning faces before him.
“This one was my favorite because I brought it into the crowd; I brought the whole stage into the crowd this time,” Koy said of the special in a recent interview with Inked, adding, “I wanted to feel like you were in a moment, and I captured the essence of the theater.”
During the show, the former b-boy declared his preference for old-school hip-hop over modern rap music and offered an unabashedly descriptive shoutout to moms in a bit that could come off as offensive, hilarious, or anywhere else across the board of emotions. Much like the mature material of big-name comics he revered in the 80s, such as Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor, it was no-holds-barred.
Straight Talk with a Standout Standup
When we spoke with Koy, he was a few months out from his highly-analyzed Golden Globes hosting gig — supporters like actor and comedian Steve Martin congratulated Koy for taking on “the toughest gig in show business,” while critics claimed his jokes didn’t hit the intended marks — and was on the home stretch of his “Funny is Funny World Tour” while readying himself for his upcoming European Tour. “After that — that’s when I get to rest for the summer,” he said. However, it’s merely a brief reprieve until he heads to Houston in September to kick off his next tour “Just Being Koy.”
On that April day, Koy’s left wrist was freshly inked from the night before with a blackout band boldly adorned with an adjacent number 89 and the phrase “When you’re not dreaming, you’re not livin.” He extended his inked-up arms, revealing textured tribal designs with honeycomb, mountains, bands, and branches, with a Jeepney emblazed with his mother’s maiden name on his right forearm. His left bicep was beautified with additional blackout — a coy fish seemingly swimming through the white spaces. The new tat is housed where “Joe” once occupied the space, coexisting with a crown and cross in the periphery.
‘Just for Laughs’ put me on the map and those were the avenues you had to take to make it in this business. Exposing your craft to the masses is simpler today compared to 20 years ago.
“Life was easier when we had to pick up the phone and do a rotary dial. It was so much easier — when you could hang up and really make it a statement by slamming it. You can’t do that anymore. You just touch the little red dot and it’s off,” Koy said. Recollecting precellphone days, he added, “It’s like, no man, we got to slam the phone seven times when we were mad. You know?”
The days of landlines continue fading into yesteryear, but it’s clear that Koy still thrives on making a strong statement. Fans of the comedian already know the 53-year-old metaphorically slammed the phone when he bet everything on himself in 2017 with his comedy show “Live from Seattle.”
Koy knew he was funny yet was completely aware he needed a larger platform to notch his comedy career up another level. Without Netflix’s financial backing, he took matters into his own hands and paid for the entire project himself, crossing his fingers that the network would pick it up after its release. “If we didn’t put that project together on our own it wouldn’t have happened, you know? It was one of those moments we were like, let’s just do it. Why wait?”
Koy explained. “I remember saying, ‘I’m almost 50. I can’t wait anymore. We got to make a move.’”
It turned out, the mega network and fans of funny gobbled it up. Netflix did indeed pick up the special, propelling the performer to new heights. “It really changed everything for me,” Koy said.
Koy started standup in 1989. Looking back at those early entertaining days, you’ll find Koy seldom passed on an opportunity to get in front of an audience, even if it was only for five minutes. “Now you can really get the exposure that you need, whereas back then it was hard — you had to do it yourself,” he said, explaining, “It was a lot of sending out videotapes to comedy clubs and showcasing at comedy festivals.”
It was 2005, Koy said, when he finally started headlining in the competitive comedy circuit. “’Just for Laughs’ put me on the map and those were the avenues you had to take to make it in this business,” he said. Exposing your craft to the masses is simpler today compared to 20 years ago, he explained, “Now you got TikTok and you got Instagram where you can really get right to your fans with content right away and it helps — it helps tremendously.”
5 Things You Might Not Know About Jo Koy
Fans of Koy already know he’s a Filipino-American comic whose mother and son are mainstays in his material and everyday life. In fact, his son Joseph Herbert Jr. accompanied him on his “Funny is Funny World Tour,” which Koy said was “a dream come true.” But we uncovered some gems that might surprise even his most diehard comedy buffs.
He
Directing attention to his right arm, Koy said, “I dedicated this whole arm to my mom and my son and my Filipino culture, and then, of course, on this side is my comedy arm. So, my journey, my path, is on my left arm.”
Koy touched on his ongoing battle with his CPAP machine, lactose, sciatic nerve pain, and modern technology, and was candid about the reality of getting older, a common talking point for the comedic powerhouse, saying, “This [technology] is all new to us, but to our kids, they grow up with this and it’s as easy as writing their name on a piece of paper.
“I feel like the old guy that’s just like, ‘How did you do that with the lights?’ I feel like I do that with my son every single day when he grabs my phone and he’s like, ‘Like this, Dad. Like this,’ And you see his fingers doing this,” Koy said laughing, swiping and flicking his finger on an imaginary cellphone.
plans to open a clandestine venue for creatives.
“I want to get this venue going that I have, that I’m going to start out here in LA. It’ll be more like a secret show-type vibe,” Koy spilled to Inked. “I wanted to provide an area where up-and-comers would have a spot, where it’s not like a rundown bar, but it’s like a sick venue that you can get 150 people in to watch.
“You could do acoustic, you could do comedy, you can do poetry, whatever you want to do — sing,” he explained further. “I built the best stage and I feel like it’s the perfect venue. So, it’ll be secret shows. It’s not a weekly thing, but it’s going to be amazing.”
He has a Batok-style tattoo.
About a year ago, an indigenous tattoo artist known as Ate Wamz (@atewamz) inked a traditional, Batok-style tattoo on the right wrist of Koy’s Filipino family and culture arm. The tattooist then inked Koy’s nieces and nephews, who were vacationing with him, with the same tattoo.
Calling it “the poke,” Koy said he didn’t “really feel it. I think you’re distracted by the noise, too, though, which clicks, like click, click, click. It’s kind of fascinating.”
He wrote his first book.
In 2021, Koy released “Mixed Plate,” an autobiography outlining the opportunities and obstacles of his past. In the book, readers get acquainted with Koy’s upbringing, support systems, parenting skills, and the extra efforts he implemented to reach the next level of stardom.
He’s a “big-time foodie” with big-time plans.
In “Mixed Plate,” Koy discusses the Filipino food that fueled him in his adolescence, which he grew to appreciate more in adulthood. When asked about the lumpia recipe — a traditional dish in the Philippines — he shared in the book, Koy said, “It’s so funny you said lumpia because that’s exactly what I want to get into and get that out. So, get ready for something with me involved with lumpia. I can’t say the name yet because it’s not done; the deal’s not done, but we’re making the deal happen. It’s amazing, by the way, too.”
Honolulu named a day for him.
After selling 23,000 tickets and 11 sold-out shows at the Neal S. Blaisdell Center in Honolulu in 2017, the mayor’s office declared November 24 “Jo Koy Day.” “I always wanted to know what it felt like when someone goes, ‘Oh, he’s got the keys to the city.’ And it actually happened. Like, what is going on?” Koy shared.
Every year, Koy returns to Hawaii around “Jo Koy Day,” bringing family along to help soak up the love. “It’s been fun,” he said. “It’s been something I brag about a lot, especially when I’m in Hawaii. I love it.”
From muscling his way into the comedy world where “there was no room for amateurs,” to selling out arenas and appearing on some of the most beloved television shows, Koy is continually finding joy in an incredible journey that is his life.
ouncing bodies sweep the venue as powerful pyrotechnics, animated lighting, and electrifying lasers shroud the crowd. Steve Aoki takes the reins at the mixing console, carefully considering the path to his ultimate purpose: uniting the audience through music — and cake. While each has a unique touch, fans can expect a similar scenario at the copious concerts Aoki performs annually.
“I’ve been on a near-constant tour for over a decade now,” says the famed DJ and producer, who earned the designation of “Most-Traveled Musician in One Year” by Guinness World Records in 2012, which he still holds today.
Although Aoki is known for his electronic dance music, there’s a good chance he collaborated with one of your favorite artists outside the genre: Lady Gaga, Snoop Dogg, Hayley Kiyoko, Ne-Yo, blink-182, and many others.
The two-time Grammy Awards nominee and son of Benihana founder Rocky Aoki had the expression “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” inked on the nape of his neck — words the musician seems to live by as he shows no signs of slowing down. In April 2024, “HiROQUEST: Genesis & Double Helix,” a comic book created in a collaboration between Aoki and celebrated comic book writer Jim Krueger, hit the market, followed by the release of his newest album in June, all while continuing his perpetual tour around the globe.
Catching up with Aoki between shows, he shares highlights of his life story: his influences, antics, aspirations, and the ink he cherishes most.
You’re undoubtedly one of the most wellknown DJs in the world. What was the driving force that headed you on this career path? When did you start mixing music and what inspired you to do so?
I’ve always been deeply passionate about music and its power to bring people together. Growing up, I was influenced by a wide range of musical genres, from punk rock to hip-hop. My journey into
DJing began in my college years at the University of California, Santa Barbara. I started by throwing small shows in my apartment and eventually founded my own label, Dim Mak Records, in 1996. The drive to create and share music that could make people feel something, connect them, and make them dance was what propelled me into this career. Artists like Daft Punk and the early rave scene were huge inspirations for me. The energy and community aspect of the electronic music scene really resonated with me and motivated me to pursue this path.
Describe your creative process. What or who do you use as inspiration when creating your music?
My creative process is dynamic, starting with an idea or feeling I want to convey. I draw inspiration from various sources, including different music genres, everyday sounds, and personal experiences. Collaboration with other artists also sparks new ideas. I aim to create music that evokes emotion and makes people want to move, capturing the essence of a moment and translating it into sound.
What can fans expect from your newest album? How does it differ from previous albums?
Fans can expect my new album to be a return to my roots, heavily centered around dance music. This album revisits the core themes that defined my early work, with a strong emphasis on creating tracks that make people move. While it features a wide range of genres, it stays true to the dance music essence. There are also several exciting collaborations with both emerging and well-known artists, adding a fresh twist to the classic dance vibe.
How do you work on new stuff when you’re always on the road? How do you keep things fresh?
To keep things fresh, I try to vary my sets and incorporate new music and visuals. I draw energy from the different cultures and audiences I encounter around the world. Working on new material while on the road can be challenging, but I bring my production
laptop with me and take advantage of any downtime. Traveling and experiencing new places provide endless inspiration for my music.
Tell us about the first time you threw a cake at your audience. Why do you think that trend stuck?
The first time I threw a cake at the audience was at a small show where I wanted to do something memorable and fun. It quickly became a signature part of my performances because it’s such a unique and interactive experience for the fans. People love the unexpected and outrageous nature of it. Overall, it’s added a lot of excitement to my shows and has become a tradition that fans look forward to.
Tell us about “HiROQUEST.” What motivated you to create this comic book and what was your role in its development? Can you offer an overview of what the comic book is about?
Creating the “HiROQUEST” graphic novel with Jim Krueger was a dream come true. I’ve always loved comic books and science fiction, and this project allowed me to blend my passion for music and storytelling. I was heavily involved in the creative process, from conceptualizing the story to developing characters. “HiROQUEST” follows a group of unlikely heroes who unite to save their world from impending doom, exploring themes of courage, friendship, and unity.
If your father was still alive, what do you think he would say about your successes? What would stand out most to him? What would you say to him?
If my father were still alive, I think he would be incredibly proud of my successes. He always valued hard work and perseverance, so those qualities in my career would stand out most to him. I believe he would be amazed by the global reach of my
music and the diverse projects I’ve undertaken. I would tell him how much his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic inspired me and how grateful I am for the values he instilled in me.
Was he your inspiration to purchase an all-electric race boat and create a racing team? Tell us about the boat and your team.
Absolutely, my father’s adventurous spirit inspired me to get involved in an E1 boat racing team. The boat is cutting-edge, and my team is passionate about pushing boundaries. We’re excited to compete and show what’s possible with electric power.
Tell us about the Aoki Foundation. What motivated you to start a brain science and research organization?
The Aoki Foundation was created to support brain science and research, which has always been a personal passion of mine. I was motivated by a desire to contribute to scientific advancements that could improve lives and unlock the mysteries of the brain. By funding research and initiatives in this field, I hope to make a positive impact on health and well-being.
How many tattoos do you have and which one(s) do you cherish the most?
I’ve lost count of the exact number of tattoos I have, but each one tells a unique story. The ones I cherish the most are those that represent significant moments or people in my life. For example, I have a tattoo of my mother and father’s family crests on my back, which holds a special place in my heart as a tribute to them and our family legacy.
Do you have any tats in the works, imagined or soon-tobe completed?
Not at the moment, but anything’s possible!
at Von D underwent a metamorphosis. She is not tattooing. She sold her makeup line. She traded the grit of the city for a quieter, rural life in Indiana. She attends church regularly, is sober, has a little boy, and is covering her old ink. But don’t let it fool you; this creative icon is every bit as edgy and authentic as she’s always been. She’s just nurturing a different passion these days: music.
You probably know Von D from her days as the no-nonsense tattoo artist on TLC’s reality shows. Her big break came in 2005 when she was cast in “Miami Ink,” and after two seasons, she packed her bags (and tattoo machine) and departed to LA to open her own shop and land a spinoff: “LA Ink.” The show was huge, cementing Von D as a household name and catapulting her into mainstream fame. But music was always her true siren song.
“Music has always been my biggest passion,” Von D explains, “but I think I let a decade or two get consumed by filming TV shows and running my old makeup line.” She started playing piano at age 6 and was classically trained, but as a teenager she fell hard for the punk rock stylings of the Misfits and the Ramones. “I don’t necessarily regret all the little empires I’ve built over the years, but there is a part of me that wishes I had released my music a lot sooner.”
Don’t go thinking Von D is just another bored celebrity looking to make an album though — music is in her blood and is a lifelong artistic pursuit. “Naturally, people were skeptical when word got out that I was making music,” she says. “And I totally get it. There aren’t too many great examples of people who have shifted from the entertainment industry to music that can be taken seriously.”
Of course, Von D is no stranger to criticism. She was a reality star, after all, and over the past decade, she found herself in the middle of quite a few scandals and headlines that would break a lesser woman. But she’s developed a thick skin and an unbothered attitude. “I think social media can make negative noise louder than the good stuff, even if it is a smaller percentage, but you just got to figure out a way to not care. Or at least not let it derail you,” she says, admitting she sometimes still gets hurt and “slightly offended, but most of the time just annoyed at ignorance when it comes to haters.”
Speaking of haters, Von D’s current transformation — covering her old, colorful tattoos with solid black ink — has caused quite a stir online. “I think I had been fed up with a lot
of the tattoos I got over the years for a long time,” she explains. The inked icon says she started the blackout process when she reached out to tattoo artist Hoode via Instagram and invited him to her studio to tattoo her forearm. “I just couldn’t explain how satisfying it was to see all the messes he would clean up with his blackout tattoo work,” she says. “I think at that time I thought I would just black out an arm, but shortly after, I knew I would end up tattooing my whole body.” She knows it’s controversial, which she kind of digs, embracing her role as an agent of chaos in the tattoo world.
But Von D has faced far bigger battles than with her online trolls. She also made headlines for a high-profile copyright lawsuit she calls “a nightmare.” In 2017, photographer Jeff Sedlik sued Von D for inking a portrait tattoo that was inspired by a photo he took in 1989 of jazz legend Miles Davis. She contends the lawsuit was merely the photographer’s effort to receive “his 15 minutes of fame — and a fat paycheck.” After a contentious two-year legal battle, a jury ruled in Von D’s favor in 2019.
“I know first-hand what it feels like to be ripped off by people, and there’s not one part of me that believes tattooing fan art is a crime,” Von D asserts. “I’m just so grateful that the jurors took their time and unanimously agreed. I have a feeling setting precedence like that will only help tattooers and other artists in the future.”
It was a difficult, draining, and dark process for Von D. “I lost weight, I lost hair, and I lost many nights of sleep over it,” she shares. “As much as I knew this person didn’t deserve a penny from me, there were times that I wanted to settle just to make it stop. But I knew if I didn’t fight, the damage to the tattoo industry and other artists would be so immense, that I couldn’t live with myself.”
Ultimately Von D decided to take a breath, step back, and reset. She and her husband Rafael Reyes relocated from the LA hustle to a small town in Indiana with their son Leafar. “I traded the city life for a simple life in rural Indiana in the middle of nowhere, and I love it,” she says. “We bought a nice piece of land where we plan to set up our homestead soon, once renovation of our Victorian home is done.”
Von D says she finds immense joy in homeschooling her son, which is how she begins most days. In addition, she attends church regularly, participating in a women’s Bible study and choir practice. It’s all part of a new chapter focused on her faith, which she rediscovered about a year before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fans shouldn’t worry, though, Von D shows no signs of stopping her creativity. The artist finally shared her musical side
with the world through her debut album “Love Made Me Do It,” released in 2021. The synth-pop record features Von D’s vocals and songwriting talents, with collaborations from industry legends like Dave Grohl, Linda Perry, Peter Murphy, and Danny Lohner — a star-studded lineup of creatives who wouldn’t take on projects with just any vocal artist.
She’s keeping that momentum strong with her newly released music video and single “Dead.” The video, directed by Ryan Valdez, who has worked with talents such as the bands Korn and Rise Against, offers a 1980s aerobic dance movement vibe, reminiscent of the popular Jane Fonda workouts of the time — her voice romantically melancholy, and a bold, beautiful, and black aesthetic.
For now, tattooing has been placed on the back burner, but the entrepreneur plans to eventually open a private studio in her small Indiana town. “Right now, we are ramping up for the new album release, followed by a few months of touring,” she says. “Music is my main focus right now.”
Von D is determined to push herself creatively like never before for this new record, which is scheduled for release later in 2024. “It’s been a dream come true to finally get to release my music and go on tour with my bandmates,” she says. “Playing my music live for people is exciting for me.”
Von D invited pop songwriters like Ferras, who writes for Katy Perry and Dua Lipa, and Shari Short, who works with Miley Cyrus and Ariana Grande, into her goth world, daring them to explore the darker realms, birthing masterpieces her fans can’t wait to hear. “I just think songwriters are the real MVPs of the music world, and are far too under-credited,” she says.
Creating the album has been an intense process for Von D who takes a workhorse-like approach and schedules time for intentional creativity. “Which sounds forced to some, but when I’m trying to balance multiple projects, it’s really the only way for me to get shit done,” she admits. “So, this new album came to life clocking in 9 to 5, five days a week for a few months, locked up in a room with my bandmates and songwriter friends.”
The hard work is paying off, with Von D’s devout fans embracing her new musical direction. “The connection I’ve been able to make with my fans through my music hits different, and I’m just so damn grateful for it,” she shares. The most rewarding part for her is knowing her music deeply resonates with listeners.
“The most fulfilling part of releasing music into the world is when someone else, a stranger you may never meet, is affected by what you do in a way that inspires or moves them,” Von D says. “Music is such a lifeline for us. It’s the soundtrack to our weddings, our heartache, our workouts. And just like tattoos, songs become landmarks in time.”
No matter what creative realm Von D explores, she brings the same level of passion, skill, and authenticity that made her the powerhouse we all know. She is a true original, unafraid to evolve and take risks in pursuit of her art. With a new album, tour, and evolving chapters in life, there’s no telling how far she’ll go.
he wheels of time have been kind to Joel Madden from the band Good Charlotte, molding his evolution from a pop-punk frontman during the MTV generation of yesteryear to a businessman thriving in the golden age of music platforms, social media, and tattoo culture.
Early tribulations from one of Madden’s first proprietary efforts with MADE Clothing caused a slight hiccup in his business portfolio. However, the consequential fallout during the 2000s helped elevate his perspective on artist empowerment in the ensuing decades. This ultimately led to transferable principles that Madden applied to his current ventures as the co-founder of MDDN artist and brand management, CEO of VEEPs live concert streaming, co-owner of Alternative Press magazine, and host of an interview web series fittingly titled “Artist Friendly.”
His transformation toward being a “tattooee” is just as compelling. Twenty-two years ago, when he and his bandmates dropped their classic sophomore album “The Young and the Hopeless,” Madden’s neck, arms, and hands were practically bare. It’s an obvious footnote in the band’s early music videos like “The Motivation Proclamation” and “The Anthem.”
Most of Madden’s body is covered in tattoos now and he’s the host of “Ink Master,” the longest-running tattoo reality show on television. This fall, he enters his third season with the cast and crew. For some, adding more work to an already jam-packed schedule might seem exhausting, but the Los Angeles resident views his latest television gig as a departure from the hustle and bustle of overseeing multiple companies close to home.
“We film in Vancouver. I usually fly in for four or five days, shoot, and fly home for two or three days,” Madden said. “There are aspects of it that aren’t as flexible, but we all make it work. I do have a lot of downtime in between [filming] on set. I have a little mobile office set up, so I get a lot done with no problem when I’m there.
“The show is kind of a nice break. I get to get out of LA [and] I get to go to a beautiful place. I love it,” he said. “It’s a nice little thing in my year where I get to go and do something different that I actually really enjoy. It’s one of the few things that I get to do that doesn’t hinge on me. What’s at stake are all the tattoo artists. They’re all fighting to win the competition.”
Job duties aside, the annual film setting presents Madden with a unique opportunity for about six or seven weeks to survey some of the world’s brightest tattooists, from the tenured judges, Ryan Ashley and Nikko Hurtado to DJ Tambe, the winningest contestant in the history of “Ink Master.”
Every day, tattoo aficionados in vintage, realism, traditional Americana, fine-line, black and grey, Japanese-style, and more, stimulate the mogul’s appetite for new ink. His standing appointment with renowned tattoo artist Scott Campbell has all signs pointing to his sideburns and the area near his temples as the most likely destinations for upcoming pieces. This leaves little room for tweaking previous concepts with incoming body art from others. Still, the long-time ink enthusiast maintains he will likely divvy out the remaining areas of his skin that haven’t been
“There’s so much more to a successful tattoo career than just putting ink on people’s skin. You’re a creative director — you’re getting opportunities to collaborate with heritage and legacy brands. You’re getting all of these opportunities if you’re art is good and you stand out. For me, it’s a cool career choice for an artist, if they have a passion for it. TikTok, Instagram, and digital media have expanded the reach of what a tattoo artist can do, who can see it, and where they can work. I love where tattooing is at and I’m excited. It’s cool to see all these new tattoo artists come up and make their own way.”
While Madden views artists as the most valuable people in the landscape of tattooing, AI is an unignorable factor in how they earn their income. In recent years, the technology has spelled the end for several creatives in Hollywood and the media. Nevertheless, as someone who made a career out of adapting to change, Madden believes there is a way for the top artists to remain at the forefront of their craft in a time of exponential growth for the business.
“AI is here and I think AI will be a part of our future forever,” Madden said. “As far as AI finding its way into the tattoo space? People are already using it for art. [It] isn’t perfect as far as creating something that has as much edge as something that someone talented drew themselves. But I think that the really creative people will use it the best and it will give them some kind of advantage or edge that maybe they didn’t have.”
reserved for Campbell’s tattoo needles to his co-stars on set. In a recent interview with Inked Magazine, Madden stated that he wants to “get tattooed by all of the judges on the show.” He also revealed that he and Tambe have been brainstorming ideas to finish up his leg tattoos.
“Ink Master” is on the shortlist of tattoo TV shows that have significantly contributed to the thriving profession since “LA Ink” first blazed the trail in 2007. Today, the major Hollywood studios, celebrities, artists, and their diverse clientele are all a part of the tattoo industry’s echo system. Madden has a front-row seat as the billion-dollar market continues to unfold all around him — whether he’s interacting with fellow talent on filming days, planning his upcoming tour with Good Charlotte, sealing more business deals with his brothers Benji and Josh, or interviewing an award-winning hip-hop producer on his podcast. Industrial and societal changes have ushered in a new era of visibility for the unsung heroes of the pop culture phenomenon, and several of Madden’s associates have inked their way into lucrative revenue streams from this recognition.
“It’s important that the artists can survive with their art, thrive, live in a world where becoming a tattoo artist is a career choice, and it is a respected line of work,” Madden said. “I think that tattoo artists are some of the most compelling and charismatic artists that I’ve ever met and generally [they] don’t get a lot of credit.
“In the last 10 years or so, the culture has shifted where these superstars in tattooing have emerged,” he continued, explaining,
For Madden, doing business and getting inked by some of the world’s most adaptive artists is a family affair steeped in nearly 27 years of tradition. He and his identical twin, Benji, endeared themselves to the artists and their stencils since they were teens. His 14-year-old son Sparrow is likely to get his first tattoo during his adolescence as well. Much like the Irish flag on his right arm, Madden hopes his son’s introduction to tattoo culture is met with a sentimental connection. The married father of two already greenlit the upcoming affair, with a few parental provisions.
“I want him to feel like he’s doing what he wants to do with his body, but I would love to be there,” Madden said. “I’ve wrapped my head around it a little bit and thought that 16 is probably a good age. It’s kind of like a rite of passage. He’s going to pick it; I’m not going to pick it. I just want to help him find the right artist. If it’s an artist that I love, great, but I just want to make sure he has some discernment about the artist and help him find his way without trying to control it. I tell him, ‘Yo, just follow artists [on social media]. In two years, when you’re ready to get a tattoo, you’ll know who you want to get tattooed by. It likely won’t be easy, you’ll have to wait, figure out when they can tattoo you, and learn the process of it.’ it’s fun.”
As time wages on, the prospect of a first timer commissioning a tattoo at a studio owned by Madden might not be out of the realm of possibilities. In the past, he mulled over a few offers to kickstart his own shop, but for now, his primary focus in the tattoo industry is on the future of the artists.
arly Pearce, a luminary in contemporary country music, weaves tales of heartache, resilience, and self-discovery through her soul-stirring melodies. Drawing from her own experiences, Pearce’s music is brimming with authenticity, reeling listeners into the depths of her emotions. Pearce offers Inked readers a glimpse into her musical journey, from humble beginnings to the creation of her latest masterpiece, “Hummingbird.”
Pearce’s earliest influences stem from the golden age of country music, a period she fondly recalls as the late 90s and early 2000s. “So many artists from that time inspired me,” she shares, listing icons like Faith Hill, Trisha Yearwood, and her idol, the indomitable Dolly Parton, among her muses. It’s a testament to Pearce’s deep-rooted appreciation for the classics, a reverence that permeates her own artistry.
At just 16, Pearce embarked on a remarkable chapter of her life, gracing the stages of Dollywood with her radiant talent. Recounting those formative years, Pearce shares anecdotes of youthful exuberance and unwavering determination. “I convinced my parents to let me drop out of school and take online classes so I could perform there,” she recalls with a hint of nostalgia. Her time at Dollywood, marked by six shows a day, five days a week, instilled in her invaluable lessons of work ethic and perseverance. It was here, amidst the throngs of adoring fans, that Pearce forged a bond with Parton, a relationship that continues to inspire her today.
The evolution from her critically acclaimed album “29: Written in Stone” to the transcendent “Hummingbird” reflects Pearce’s profound journey of growth and healing. “I purposefully took my time when writing and producing this album because I wanted to fully experience the life that I was writing,” she says. With each note and lyric, Pearce delves deeper into her own emotional landscape, crafting a body of work that serves as both a testament to her resilience and a beacon of hope for her listeners.
“Hummingbird” represents a milestone for Pearce, marking her first foray into coproduction — an endeavor she approaches with both trepidation and exhilaration. Collaborating with industry stalwarts Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne, Pearce finds herself on familiar terrain, surrounded by kindred spirits who share her unwavering commitment to the purity of country music. “I am making the music that I have always dreamed of making,” she declares with palpable pride.
In addition to her musical journey, Pearce’s body bears the indelible marks of her personal story. Adorned with tattoos that serve as symbols of remembrance and beacons of hope, Pearce shares the significance behind each intricate design. “I got a hummingbird tattoo on my arm before we announced the title of the album,” she says. “I thought it was a great way to enter this era of new music, but also have as a reminder of this chapter of my life: healing and hope.”
But it’s not just the hummingbird that holds significance for Pearce. A red feather tattoo on her arm is a tribute to her late grandparents, who played an instrumental role in shaping her love for country music. “They never got to see this dream come to life for me, but every night when I am playing my guitar on stage, I see it and I think of them,” she shares, her voice tinged with emotion.
The journey of self-discovery and healing that Carly Pearce embarks upon with “Hummingbird” resonates deeply with audiences. Through her music, Pearce invites listeners to find solace in their lived experiences through the power of melody and lyric. “My hope for this record is that it continues to inspire fans to heal, grow, and embrace their stories,” she says.
Pearce finds herself humbled by the magnitude of her journey. With a heart full of gratitude and a spirit undaunted by the challenges ahead, she looks to the future with unwavering optimism. “Keep going,” she implores her younger self, a sentiment that echoes through the corridors of time. For Pearce, the journey is far from over.
As Pearce reflects on the path that brought her to this moment, she finds comfort in the power of her music to touch lives and stir souls. With “Hummingbird,” she invites audiences to embark on a voyage of self-discovery, where healing and growth intertwine in melodies that resonate with the human experience. Through her music, Pearce imparts a timeless message of resilience and hope, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, there is beauty to be found.
attoos have always held a special place in the realm of art and culture, serving as symbols of identity, spirituality, and artistic expression across various civilizations. In Japan, the history of tattoos is a vibrant tapestry that weaves together ancient traditions, cultural practices, and social perceptions. From its early roots in spiritual rituals to its modern-day resurgence as a form of self-expression, the journey of tattoos in Japan is a captivating narrative that reflects the evolution of society and individuality.
The origins of tattooing in Japan can be traced back to the Jōmon period, a prehistoric era that spanned from around 10,000 B.C.E. to 300 C.E. Archaeological excavations have unearthed clay figurines
with intricate tattoo markings, suggesting that tattooing was practiced for spiritual and ritualistic purposes. These early tattoos were believed to symbolize protection, status, and identity within the community, laying the foundation for the cultural significance of tattoos in Japan.
The Kofun period (300-600 C.E.) marked a significant shift in the role of tattoos in Japan, where they began to take on religious connotations. Tattoos in shamanistic rituals symbolized protection against malevolent spirits. Moreover, the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido incorporated tattooing into their cultural practices as a means of connecting with nature and ancestral spirits.
The next significant transformation started in the Edo period (1603-1868). The government imposed strict regulations
prohibiting tattooing and enforced it as a form of punishment (irezumi kei) for criminals, branding them with permanent marks to signify their social status. This practice led to the association of tattoos with criminality, shaping the negative perception of tattoos in Japanese society for centuries to come. The tattoos received were based on the crime committed and the location of the tattoo indicated the type of crime. For example, murderers were tattooed on their heads, while thieves had tattoos on their arms. The tattoos also operated on a three-strikes system, with each strike representing a specific Chinese symbol, followed by death.
Despite the social stigma surrounding tattoos, the Edo period also witnessed the emergence of a distinct tattoo art form known as irezumi (translating to “inserting ink”).
Tattoo artists, known as horishi, developed intricate designs inspired by ukiyo-e woodblock prints, incorporating motifs such as dragons and tigers for example. This distinct style is characterized by bold and colorful designs that cover large areas of the body.
However, the Meiji Restoration in 1868 brought about sweeping social changes in Japan, leading to the banning of tattoos in
1872 due to their association with criminality and rebellion. Despite this prohibition, tattoos continued to thrive underground, with yakuza gang members and outcasts wearing elaborate tattoos as a symbol of loyalty, strength, and defiance against societal norms.
In recent decades, tattoos have experienced a resurgence in Japan, propelled by a new generation of artists and enthusiasts who seek to reclaim and reinterpret the rich heritage of Japanese tattooing. Traditional motifs such as koi fish, dragons, cherry blossoms, and peonies continue to inspire contemporary tattoo designs, blending ancient symbolism with modern aesthetics.
HORIDAI YUKI
@ HORIDAI TATTOO
@ HORIDAI TATTOO
Today, Japanese tattoo artists are celebrated around the world for their exceptional skill and creativity, attracting clients from diverse backgrounds who seek to adorn their bodies with exquisite works of art. From traditional hand-poked tebori tattoos to modern machine-based techniques, the art of Japanese tattooing continues to evolve and captivate audiences worldwide, bridging the past with the present in a celebration of culture, craftsmanship, and self-expression.
Queue in TAKASHii From Japan. Takashii is a street interviewer originally from Nagoya, Japan, but has lived in Tokyo for the past six years. He started street interviewing simply because he didn’t see himself as a typical nine-to-five worker. He felt more compelled to create media content and thought what better way to do that than to get out on the streets of Japan and interview people about their ideas and perspectives on life in Japan.
Takashii truly enjoys his line of work and laments that it’s fun because it’s so
unpredictable. His goal is to magnify the ‘true’ feelings and observations of living in Japan. He wants people to truly understand what it’s like, both the perceived good and bad. Takashii finds interviewing challenging at times because Japanese people tend to be very private, and don’t particularly care to be in a video speaking on their thoughts and feelings. Nevertheless, Takashii makes his interviewees feel comfortable, never interrupting and letting them speak freely about their ideas. He doesn’t judge them, even if their ideas or thoughts oppose his own convictions.
Takashii has interviewed famous people, business personnel, influencers, and, you guessed it, tattoo artists and heavily tattooed individuals. One day while in Harajuku, Takashii found Horidai Yuki. Yuki is one of the more popular tattoo artists in Japan and is also a content creator on various social media platforms.
Takashii had an impromptu street interview with Yuki and it exploded on
@TAKU OSHIMA TATTOO
@NISSACO
@NISSACO
@NISSACO
social media. They spoke about Yuki wearing long sleeves and pants in public even when it’s hot, his first tattoos, and his inspirations, along with his insights regarding the taboo nature of tattoos in Japan. Yuki says he doesn’t feel society needs to change its outlook on tattoos simply because someone decides to get tattooed, they already know what comes along with its association.
Yuki sits among top talents, along with fellow tattoo artists Taku Oshima and Nissaco. Unlike Yuki’s more traditional style of tattooing, Oshima’s expertise plays heavily on ornamental blackwork, and he often creates full-body suits. Oshima traveled a lot when he was younger and says he started tattooing because he found it to be a profession where you can be successful and still travel the world. He says, “My goal is simple: to create beauty that can be seen from 10 yards away.”
While staying in the realm of blackwork, Nissaco takes a turn in a different direction. His work primarily focuses on large cohesive pieces that break the bounds of traditional
and gyms still maintain strict no-tattoo policies due to historical associations with organized crime, there is a shifting perception that recognizes tattoos as legitimate artistic expressions rather than markers of criminality.
symmetry. You can find his pieces mimicking an almost geometrical canvas at times. Japanese tattooing continues to captivate and inspire people globally, transcending cultural boundaries and resonating with individuals who appreciate its beauty, symbolism, and craftsmanship. Attitudes toward tattoos are gradually evolving, with a growing acceptance of body art as a form of self-expression and personal style. While some public spaces such as onsens (hot springs)
As Japanese tattooing navigates the complexities of tradition, modernity, and social norms, it continues to evolve and adapt to new cultural landscapes. Contemporary artists are pushing boundaries, experimenting with innovative designs, and incorporating elements from diverse artistic traditions to create unique and compelling tattoo art. Whether rooted in centuries-old traditions or exploring new frontiers of creativity, Japanese tattooing remains a vibrant and dynamic form of artistic expression that celebrates the intersection of history, culture, and individuality. By honoring the legacy of irezumi while embracing the spirit of innovation, Japanese tattoo artists are shaping the future of a timeless art form that continues to inspire and intrigue people around the world.
@NISSACO
@TAKU OSHIMA TATTOO
@TAKU OSHIMA TATTOO
Adventure
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he taboo of body art is starting to lift in Mexico as people from all walks of life begin connecting their lived experiences with tattoos. Multidisciplinary artist Rodrigo Salcedo created his own fullservice work environment in Mexico City where artists can create, showcase, and interact with their work.
ITO Lab (itolab.io) was formed to be the center of all things artistic. Built on the idea of a multidisciplinary approach, the space was curated to be an extension of Salcedo’s personal expression. He wants to see, hear, feel, and live art. The immersion helps him feed off the other disciplines, opening unlimited possibilities for his tattoo work.
“If I’m only doing tattoo art, my perspective is very limited,” he said.
One part tattoo studio, one part art gallery, the space also has a large area full of materials to create with. It’s now a fixture in the city’s art scene with guest artists adding their flavor to the building.
It’s also the spot where art and performance come together. This is where Salcedo is moving the line of what each medium is capable of.
When clients arrive at ITO, the goal is to create a truly curated experience. From the architecture to the sculptures and the sounds of tattoo machines, Salcedo wants everything inside to evoke peace, calmness, and creativity.
He’s also looking to build an experience unique enough to create value.
“The value comes from the ritual and the transformation process,” Salcedo said. “With NFTs, tattoos can be assets through the lens of contemporary art.”
Owning an original piece of art in a digital form gives your experience more value. They can be passed on, given away, or sold. They showcase and back up the art asset you invested in. Salcedo thinks this is good for the tattoo industry, bringing it to the level of all art forms.
These innovations create opportunities for tattoo artists driven by clients’ demands for more meaning in the art they choose to put on their skin. It also speaks to the higher prices of tattoos and people wanting an investment along with the art and story.
“Getting the tattoo might eventually be a backup investment for your NFT,” Salcedo said.
Salcedo’s art is resonating with people all over Mexico and beyond. The deep spiritual undertones, exploration into meaning and purpose, and strong emotional connections help everyone make sense of their own lived experiences.
This speaks to the true value of tattoos in our culture. Salcedo wants to leave a mark to help try to explain our time on earth. New tools, styles, and trends will expose more people to the art form and reflect the backgrounds, points of view, and perspectives of all people.
“All art changes as paradigms change,” Salcedo said. “All things shape what’s going on in our minds.”
The COVID-19 experience helped fuel change that had been building for years. People worldwide started prioritizing what’s important, putting more effort and value into time, health, revelation, and connection. This pushed Salcedo to want more than just what was in front of him — he wanted to build a solid foundation for his art, his inspirations, and what it means to be an artist as the world returns to normal.
Currently, ITO Lab is an emerging idea of sorts. Salcedo wants to expand it to a unique platform. He’s at the forefront of a niche art movement and wants to explore all the different realms and media. He’s interested in how tattooing can influence art in areas like fashion, light, sculptures, and performance. He wants people who come to his studio to have an overall cultural experience.
He’s also looking for new and interesting ways to perform all his art, from creating a new language and symbols to help explain his purpose to using this language to express the ongoing exploration.
“It’s beautiful and scary at the same time,” Salcedo said. “Transforming pain into beauty.”
Symbols are important parts of his work. He created a language of symbols he uses throughout most of his outlets to express the reality he sees in everyday life. His step into performance began when he shared a video of him shaving his head, putting a stencil on the top of his skull, and tattooing it. The stencil was a symbol he created as part of a new expression that blends ink with skin as a form of therapy and energy.
He also believes psychedelics helped him in his search to find a place as an artist. He began using them more to look inward but eventually found a place where he used them to channel visuals into an artistic reality. He describes this as waking up to different states of consciousness — all part of the ongoing quest for new ideas, new thinking, and new avenues to pursue his creativity.
This approach to his craft is opening opportunities in all areas for Salcedo and ITO Lab. The advantage of perspective helped him expand to areas he wouldn’t have imagined five years ago — new avenues to take his first love of tattooing to different people, different attitudes, and, eventually, a new direction.
Nobody says it’s easy to call yourself an artist; harder still to call yourself a multidisciplinary artist and follow through with it. This new generation’s fluid outlook on what it means to be an outsider looks very promising, based on the ideas from ITO Lab.
The ITO Lab website proudly displays its mantra, “Bridging Art Between Worlds,” showcasing tattoos, art, and an entrance to the metaverse. This new approach is only challenged by creating, preserving, selling, and marketing said art.
rtist Cheyenne Randall’s earliest years were spent in Minneapolis where his mother, “a true 1960s hippie,” filled his upbringing with vibrance and wonderment. His father, a member of the Rosebud Indian Reservation, was an artist who often provided tools for the young man to create artworks of his own and even involved his son in his art pieces, nurturing Randall’s love of art. “My time with my pops was short, but I’m grateful I got to work on a number of pieces with him before his passing in ’95,” he says.
Randall’s family relocated to Seattle when he was 10, and by the time he was a teenager, he was drawing regularly, often recreating band logos. “I liked to appropriate and play with logos and iconography long before I knew what that was,” he says.
Academics wasn’t Randall’s strong suit, so he made a living in the trades while also pursuing his passions. Soon, Randall amplified his artwork, constructing large-scale murals
that oftentimes featured celebrities peppered in ink, each concocted with Randall’s creativity. He says, “Being a grunt, framing, house painting, and carpentry taught me many of the skills that influence the way I make my mixed media and plan/execute a mural today.”
Most of your artworks have people with tattoos. Why tattoos?
I think people in photographs are a perfect canvas. I’ve always been drawing on people’s faces in magazines and stuff so the next logical step for me was Photoshop to try and make them look real.
It’s also just good fun, like the Sigourney Weaver one I did last year. Sometimes there’s a nod to friends or inside jokes; Easter eggs like “Spengler” tattooed in Old English on the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man tattoo on her chest or the Facehuggers from “Aliens” on her shoulders. I enjoy incorporating old vintage ads and logos or using flash from someone like [tattoo artist] Rosie Camanga. Overall
tattoos rule — I’ll probably always be drawing them all over photos.
What piece of art made you think, “Hey, I can make a living doing this!” and why?
How have your art practices changed since then?
I’m not sure exactly which piece set the tone. Around 2012, social media was just starting to be a thing for me, and I posted a bunch of mixed media drawings on ledger paper and got offers to purchase them right away. I would make a new batch, post, and sell.
The tattoo stuff came in around the same time and by 2013 I was staying busy with art full-time. I always envisioned more for the digital works, so I started printing those out on large format printers and pasting them up around the city or at abandoned spaces. I had a lot of fun driving all over the West Coast pasting up spots and I think people really enjoyed going out and finding them. (See #PastingtheWest on Instagram). That led to commissions from businesses and private
residences, and I started doing large-scale installations as a job.
I think the way my practices have changed is that my wife Ariel and I keep it real mom-and-pop. She does all the frontend logistical stuff while I focus on the art and labor. We prefer to work directly with collectors and clients and not so much with galleries or middlemen — something previously that seemed to murk the waters. We’ve worked hard to have a complete shop full of tools and supplies for the mural installations, and printers for archival prints and wide-format printing.
What was your first large-scale installation and what inspired you to do it?
My first large-scale installation was
probably at Roq La Rue Gallery in Seattle. It was a 25-by-40-foot wall with stairs and a door of “Pretty Nose,” a Cheyenne [Tribe] woman. I’m always inspired by my ancestors, what they went through, and how we are all still very much here. I wanted that to be represented then and there.
Which of your murals has the most sentimental value and why?
I’d have to say the mural I did up at Idyllwild Arts Academy titled “Mergers & Acquisitions.” That piece is about the unstoppable force of exponential growth and “manifest destiny.” It’s a collage of two photos by Roland Reed of some Blackfoot Natives on cliffs from around 1912 overlooking downtown Los Angeles. It’s about 40 feet
wide on the library there. It’s like going back in time and seeing what’s coming; for my ancestors it was tragic. But again, it’s important for me to represent that side of my lineage and that story as a contemporary native artist today.
Where can people see your murals and other artworks?
I think the best place to see the installations and artwork would be on my Instagram feed (@indiangiver). Many of them are in a business or private space; very few that you can just walk right up to on the street. I’d love for people to check them out and go support the business that commissioned the pieces, all tagged and mentioned in my posts.
JULY
25–28, 2024
THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON HOMECOMING FESTIVAL
Milwaukee,Wisconsin
Appearing for the second year in a row, the Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival can officially call itself an annual event. This year, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jelly Roll, and Hardy headline the event with The Offspring, Cypress Hill, Warren Zeiders, and more heating up the stage for the acclaimed bands. Festivalgoers will enjoy plenty of Harley and artist merch as well as an explosive performance by global sports entertainment stunt crew Nitro Circus. Additional activities are planned at Veterans Park, the Harley-Davidson Museum, H-D Headquarters, the H-D Powertrain Operations facility, and more.
AUGUST 1–4, 2024 LOLLAPALOOZA
Chicago,Illinois
Founded by Jane’s Addiction frontman Perry Farrell in 1991, Lollapalooza’s maiden voyage was a massive success and established itself as a can’t-miss music festival for years. Once again, Lollapalooza is gifting guests with a symphony of highenergy music during the four-day festival featuring more than 170 bands performing across eight stages at one of Chicago’s most iconic locations: Grant Park. On the mainstage are Blink-182, The Killers, Sza, and Tyler, the Creator, among others, and a whole slew of brilliant openers from all over the world.
AUGUST 9–11, 2024 WINNIPEG TATTOO CONVENTION
Winnipeg,Manitoba
The Winnipeg Tattoo Convention returns for its sixth venture into inked revelry at the Red River Exhibition Park in Winnipeg, a popular hub for events and experiences throughout the year. More than 250 tattoo artists from around the globe will showcase their tattooing savvy and be on hand for impromptu tattooing. Better yet, patrons can peruse the list of artists and book ahead to ensure a spot with their favorite artist. Also on tap are live entertainment, tattoo artwork, motorcycles, merch, food and drink, and many shopping opportunities.
THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON HOMECOMING FESTIVAL
WINNIPEG TATTOO CONVENTION
LOLLAPALOOZA
AUGUST 23–25, 2024
AUSTRALIAN TATTOO EXPO PERTH
Perth,Australia
Celebrating 10 years of top tattoo talent, the Australian Tattoo Expo in Perth, Australia, offers tattoo artists and enthusiasts an opportunity to connect, conspire, commemorate, and delve into the latest happenings in tattoo culture. Around 450 tattoo artists will grace the grounds of the Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre, offering attendees endless possibilities to preview and study artists from all over the world, and perhaps even schedule a tattoo or piercing session. Guests will also enjoy live entertainment, competitions, merchandise, and more.
SEPTEMBER 4-7, 2024
FRIEZE SEOUL
Seoul,SouthKorea
Gather ideas for your next ink while coalescing with like-minded art lovers at Frieze Seoul at COEX in the Gangnam District. The annual event will have approximately 120 galleries showcasing artworks from up-and-coming and established artists from Asia and beyond. Coinciding with South Korea’s long-standing Kiaf SEOUL art fair, guests can supercharge their artistic appetites with contemporary works as well as pieces from the distant past. The fair even celebrates our youngest artists in “Focus Asia,” a section of the show reserved for budding Asian artists aged 12 years and younger.
SEPTEMBER 13–15, 2024
INTERNATIONAL AMSTERDAM TATTOO CONVENTION
Amsterdam
This fall, the International Amsterdam Tattoo Convention will be swarming with more than 350 tattoo artists from around the globe, offering patrons the opportunity to get inked by some of the world’s top talent. Not looking to put your skin in the game? Even those with bare canvases will appreciate witnessing the craftsmanship and creativity involved in each tattoo project and relish the competitions, clothing, jewelry, art, food, and piercing studio, which can be found throughout the venue. Commemorating 18 years in 2024, this well-established event draws thousands annually and highlights the splendor of the tattooed body.
AMSTERDAM TATTOO CONVENTION
AUSTRALIAN TATTOO EXPO PERTH
FRIEZE SEOUL
SEPTEMBER
19–22, 2024
BOURBON & BEYOND
Louisville,Kentucky
A bevy of impressive headliners will hit the stage at Bourbon & Beyond this year, including Neil Young, Dave Matthews Band, Zack Bryan, Tyler Childers, and Beck, with a total of more than 100 musical acts performing across five stages throughout the four-day event. Festivalgoers can also get into the spirit by sipping on a vast selection of bourbons at the Big Bourbon Bar and The Hunter’s Club, where opportunities are endless for rare, vintage, experimental, and traditional bourbon selections. Additional beverages and food selections are also available throughout the Highland Festival Grounds.
SEPTEMBER
20–22, 2024
GOLDEN STATE TATTOO EXPO
Pasadena,California
A legion of exceptional tattoo artists will populate the Pasadena Convention Center for the Golden State Tattoo Expo, prepared to showcase their creativity and expertise. Get tattooed, watch others get tattooed, or just absorb the multitude of inked individuals attending and working the expo. Engross yourself in an artist-led seminar, a painting workshop, vendor booths, and live entertainment. Better yet, take home a competition title by entering one of the several tattoo contests to show off your existing best artwork, or a new tattoo that is started and completed by one of the many tattoo artists at the expo.
SEPTEMBER
27–29, 2024
OCEANS CALLING FESTIVAL OceanCity,Maryland
Live music and the beach are beckoning concertgoers to the Oceans Calling Festival. Located at the Ocean City Inlet Beach, the venue not only hosts an all-star lineup, but also spectacular waterfront views of the Atlantic Ocean; delicious food and drinks; cooking demos by acclaimed chefs Robert Irvine, Amanda Freitag, and Marc Murphy; and access to the Jolly Roger at the Pier amusement park. While Blink-182, The Killers, and Dave Matthews Band are the centerpieces of the lineup, celebrated bands such as O.A.R. (Oceans Calling co-organizer), Cage the Elephant, The Beach Boys, Counting Crows, and Sublime will also rock the stage.
BOURBON & BEYOND
GOLDEN STATE TATTOO EXPO
OCEANS CALLING
cd: ROBB AARON GORDON
