interview with Heng Yue | Newassassin Tattoo、China 31/07/2018
Q: How long have you been
tattooing? What inspired you to start learning about this beautiful
art form?
A: I have been in this field for 15 years. I chose to be a tattoo
artist for being independent, flexible, well paid, innovative,
challenging, and artistic. I will devote all myself into this, I can
hardly feel what other jobs can bring to me.
Q: Was it hard to learn? What is your opinion on tattoo
apprenticeship?
A: If you are inspired, innovative, with drawing basics and with
diligence, you will be a great artist. Of course you have to improve
what is short.
Q: You have 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. 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 name my style in two words, innovative and realistic. I like to
present realistic feeling in my work by focusing on details and
variation of bone, muscle, and skin, these are the very factor of my
work. I also dwell deep into the tattooed skin and what the work
inspires. I custom made every tattoo for each client. I believe this
is why my works are attractive.
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: The relation between ink and skin is the most important part of
the process. Different skin color and texture requires different
kinds of ink. Of course ink works differently in presenting
different styles. Proper ink make the work more attractive.
Q: How much experimenting is important for artistic
progress? Have you ever tried something different than the style
you're known for?
A: Trying is key to improve your level. I've always been exploring
in different directions, absorbing different nutrition.
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: Exactly, big piece is really a challenge to tattooist’s endurance
and skills. But big piece is magnificent and is better a sense of
wholeness.
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: Well it’s hard to say, I don’t know how to answer this question.
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: I look heavily at communicating with clients, as the tattoo is
along with him or her for whole life. I must design their work based
on their thought, preference, characteristics and their belief. I
don’t give many opinions, I listen, and I design. Before that I need
to know the theme, style, thought, inside, emotion and belief. After
that I make a design, blend to the picture in their mind.
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: In my point of view, summer is better for tattooing as in summer
skin is moist and elastic, and with better body circulation which is
good for skin recovery, of course infection must be carefully
avoided.
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: Be wholehearted to every work, with dedication, everybody can
make it.
Please write your contact info such as email, website and
don't hesitate to tell us if you're attending some tattoo convention
soon, we would like to say hi : )
The Chinese spend most of their time on WeChat and other independent
social software. But I have established my own Instagram and Facebook
accounts.
Instagam:www.instagram.com/hengyue_newassassin_tattoo
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/newassassintattoo