KUCHING: It’s a place where the skin becomes the canvas and the ink becomes living, breathing art – the Kuching International Tattoo Expo 2024 is proof of the limitless imagination and skill of tattoo artists from all around the world.
The frontiers of artistic expression are being pushed at this meeting point of skill, passion, and inventiveness, and 45 local and foreign tattoo artists are gathered at the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Hall, here from April 5-7.
Lunatic Tattooer’s Maxen Japon, a tattoo artist, stated that while this was not his first expo, it probably won’t be his last because he has been regularly attending expos since 2016.
At this expo, he worked on a regular client’s tattoo while showcasing his specialisation in American old school and engraving tattoo styles to the New Sarawak Tribune.
“The duration of creating a tattoo varies based on the size and design.
“Sometimes, a small tattoo with a complex detail may take longer to complete compared to a larger tattoo with fewer details; so, it all comes down to the level of detail and complexity of the design,” explained Maxen.
He added that he does a lot of lining, shading, and colouring on his tattoo designs and that realistic designs tend to use a lot of layering.
“Nowadays, the tattoo gun is quieter and less intimidating than the older tattoo guns; like mine here, my tattoo gun has five needles, which makes a rounder shading,” Maxen said before continuing on the tattoo he was working on.
He offered valuable advice to aspiring tattoo artists, recommending that they seek inspiration by watching videos on YouTube and consider finding mentors to guide starting their career in a tattoo studio.
Nagaia from Rakta Dhatu Tatu, who has been a tattoo artist for the past five years, is also partaking in the expo.
The studio comprises five tattoo artists, each specialising in distinct styles, and Nagaia specialises in the detailed art of Iban pua kumbu style tattoos.
She jokingly advised those considering their first tattoo not to overthink the consideration of getting a tattoo.
“I think what makes it more important is the style, so when clients approach us for consultation, I will show them artist profiles, and they will pick the style that relates to them.
“When they have decided, we talk about the placement where it won’t be too painful,” she explains.
Nagaia added that she prefers to have her clients meet her personally at the studio so she can better understand what they want.
Rakta Dhatu Tatu has proactively prepared printed aftercare instructions for their clients to ensure the quality of their tattoos.
“Occasionally, clients may not recall all the aftercare steps we explain to them, so, we provide a printed guide along with a small cube of cream, emphasising that it should not be shared with anyone.
“This helps prevent any potential cross-contamination that could affect the tattoo,” Nagaia explains, showcasing the aftercare product they offer to their clients.
Meanwhile, attending their first-ever expo, Min and Mandy are the dynamic duo behind Needle Wanderers, who were brought together by their shared love of tattooing.
“When it comes to styles, our preference lies in crafting personalised pieces where clients share their ideas and designs with us.
“We thrive on creating custom designs as it adds a deeply personal touch to each individual’s tattoo,” Min explained.
The girls also offered advice for first-time tattoo recipients, encouraging them to remain calm throughout the process as nervousness can lead to an increased heart rate, which may affect blood circulation making the tattooing process more painful.
“Typically, people experience nervousness before getting a tattoo, but they often relax as the process unfolds and at that point, we like to engage in conversation to help them stay calm and comfortable,” Min said.
Mandy emphasised the importance of aftercare in preserving the quality of the tattoo and gave tips on preventing any potential damage to its quality.
“A person may experience itchiness on their freshly tattooed skin, but it’s crucial to resist the urge to scratch and treating your new tattoo as you would a wound is essential; refraining from scratching will help maintain its cleanliness and appearance,” Mandy advised.
The Kuching International Tattoo Expo 2024 co-organised by Skrang Tattoo Studio and Inkzation Tattoo Studio was officiated by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan on Saturday (April 6).
