Q: How long have you been tattooing? What inspired you to start learning about this beautiful art form?
A: I've been tattooing for 5 years, after my first tattoo I got inspired to capture art on my skin and for a lifetime.

Q: Was it hard to learn? What is your opinion on tattoo apprenticeship?
A: It was not easy, especially because of the little information that was available at the time I was a beginner, but enormous patience involved in learning to tattoo played well.

Q: You have a very remarkable style. These days, seems like every single day there is a new style, many artists are coming up with new cool ideas, it is hard to create a unique "signature" style. But here you are, every tattoo you did is something special with so much depth in the design itself. At least, that is how I see it. Very nice composition, brilliant balance of black and white ink, that makes the final result impressive.

How would you describe your style? Would you give it a name?
A: I do not like pigeonhole in anything, I like and I enjoy trying new things in almost every tattoo I do, I can do from a basic realism by copying the photo, such as a portrait, to something with freehand drawings that makes it more dynamic and innovative.

Q: Tattooing itself is not an easy skill to learn. How much the knowledge for tattoo ink and skin plays a big role? Are there any specific rules of applying a specific ink to a different skin type etc? Give me a bit of guidance here.
A: Yes, every day that passes I'm more aware of the importance of the skin of each person and the importance of a correct application of the ink.

Q: Realistic tattoos definitely took a big presence in the "new era" of professional tattooing. It's something that the last decade artists can take pride in being able to create a new way of doing tattoos and therefore stunning results. Taking the tattooing itself into a whole new level, I honestly see it as a big progress.

Talking about your style... Despite the nice balance between the black & white ink, are there any other ways like applying some 3D effects or a nice background to compliment the whole design and bring the "realistic note' even more, what's the secrete?
A: I think the secret is to leave nothing to chance and detail each area with the same importance, that is everything.

Q: How much experimenting is important for artistic progress? Have you ever tried something different than the style you're known for?
A: I think that if you do not try you do not know, but no, I do not usually get out of realism in black and gray I like to work my style and give the maximum.

 

Q: Big tattoos like sleeves and backpieces can take 4-5 sessions to complete or maybe even more, depending of the complexly of the design, but when it's all done, I bet it's a pleasure for both, you and your client. Are this types of tattoos a big challenge (not just time & energy consuming) but at the same time a great way to really show off your skills even more?
A: Yes totally, I like to play with body shapes to make my tattoos and yes, the bigger the better.

Q: Tattooing is a job that requires love and complete dedication. The journey of self development as an artist and maybe as a person outside tattooing can lead you to many interesting experiences and teach you some valuable lessons. There are ups and downs, lots of competition and pressure to become better on daily basis. Anything you can say that you cherish about being a tattoo artist?
A: I love the tattoo art in general, it has given me much of what I have and what I am, any tattoo artist will understand what I say hehehe

 

Q: While doing a tattoo, customers usually reveal the story behind the design and the whole experience changes for both. Suddenly you learn about life struggles, coping strategies, love, compassion, victories of veterans etc etc. So many emotions that we humans have and express so differently. How much the good connection with the clients is important for one artist? Do you help your clients with some ideas for their design?
A: Sometimes I get too involved haha, it is vitally important for me a good connection the client.

Q: Winter is probably the best time to get a tattoo, but seems like people are in a rush to get tattooed this time of the year. What are some of your best recommendations for getting a tattoo during summer and its aftercare treatment?
A: Any time is good for tattooing, as long as proper care is maintained.

Q: After so many years in this job, what would you say to someone who plans to start tattooing? What's the best approach?
A: I would tell them to carefully choose their tattoo artist, seeing his works fresh and cured.

Mr.Franky Lozano, Thank you for the interview,
Kind Regards,
The Skin Artist Team