Think ink

KATHMANDU, April 18: Nepal Tattoo Pvt Ltd, Thamel is organizing the first ever international gathering of tattoo artists in the country.

“Nepal Tattoo Convention 2011” will see a total of 57 national and international tattoo artists participating in the event. [break]

The event will take place from April 22 to 24 at Hotel Yak and Yeti, Durbarmarg, Kathmandu.

The entry fee is Rs 200 per day or Rs 600 for three days.

Here are excerpts from interviews with a few participating Nepali tattoo artists.

Jimmy Pramod Malakar

Needles Inc. Thamel

Life’s full of color, and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t imprint your skin with colors.

I love to do religious tattoos; the more complex a design, the more satisfaction.

Tattoos are more than just passing fad or fashion statement.

It can be, for example, used esthetically to camouflage various scars or defects on the skin, a life altering experience for some.

It’s an interesting profession -- you get to meet people, express yourself -- but it’s not easy. There are people, who come to learn the craft to make quick bucks when abroad, and then there are those who are in it for the love of art.

I usually stay away from the former kind because, I believe, tattoo making, like every other form of art, requires a lot of drive. Whether your interest is in getting a tattoo or learning the art, you must give your best shot.

Sudeep Khadka
Jad´s Tattoo, Thamel

I was so drawn to tattoo I remember constructing a tattoo machine at home using a tape recorder motor and pins.

It did the job done but, obviously, nothing beats professional machines. These days the newcomers have it pretty easy as materials are readily available.

The only thing one needs is passion. I’m a student of fine arts and doing my degree from Lalit Kala Campus, Bhotahiti.

If you are thinking of entering this business, think again; it’s not easy. In the world of tattooing there are literally no second chances, plus you’re dealing with somebody’s skin and their emotions.

Learn your art, start with small projects, and go professional only after you’re 100%.

I’ve been tattooing for the past 7 years and although my resume boasts around 500 designs, it still gets unnerving every single time. Only the passion to learn can help you get over all the hurdles.

Rajeev Lama
Urgen Tattoos, Thamel

As an artist, I’m up for any challenge. If I were to pick a favorite style, however, it would be traditional designs with lot of intricate details. Yes, it is a lot of work and that’s where the fun lies.

Foreigners usually root for Buddhism inspired tattoos and scriptures, whereas locals prefer extravagant, larger than life designs.

Kids swear by gothic designs. Whatever your taste, it is better to take your time to decide what you really want as some of the worst tattoo mistakes happen when you’re young. So, don’t rush, take your time. Don’t get a tattoo before you are 18.

Once you get your dream design, take its good care. Avoid prolonged exposure to sun, salt water, put sunscreen and keep your skin clean. If I were to pick a celebrity for tattooing, it would have to be Namrata Shrestha. I think she’s cool.