The artist from Marseille, France, along with his wife Natalie, has landed in Kathmandu to attend the “Nepal Tattoo Convention.” Their expectations from the event: Love, friendship and few tattoos; that is, if he has any space left, at all.[break]
For the love of art
I was always interested in art and started sketching at a very young age. As chance would have it, I met a passionate tattoo artist “Bories”; one thing led to another and before long I was hooked to tattoos. If you see me, I’m running out of space for getting tattoos. It can be very addictive (laughs). If I have to choose a favorite spot, it would be either my back or the left side of my face that reads ‘Om Mane Padme Om’ in Tibetan. The one on my back, in Sanskrit, when translated means ‘Formed from emptiness -- emptiness in form.’
French ink scene
It’s very strict. There are way too many rules imposed on tattoo artists. A couple of weeks ago, a girl was arrested, her store was vandalized and was fined 45,000 Euros. The tattoo artists still feel the pinch of discrimination, however, subtle it might be. Although there were tattoo parlors since the 60’s, most of them catered to sailors and gangsters and that’s how the stereotypical notion got associated with the ink. Many tattooists have shifted to other places fleeing their home country. Plus opening a shop in France can be astronomically expensive. In fact, tattooing has been accepted as a profession in France only recently.
Nepal as a tattoo destination
Travelling and tattooing comes naturally to me. They complement each other in fulfilling two of my life’s passion. I’ve been to South America, Thailand, Cambodia, and India but hands down, you guys are the coolest. The tattoo culture here is very promising. I also admire the smile on people’s face. They are so friendly and their appreciation of art is just so heartening. In Thailand, for instance, tattoos are associated with wealth, so if you are inked you are a prime target for all the vendors (laughs). Also, here in Nepal, there’s this connection between the tattoo artist and the client – it’s more than just business. The spiritual aspect is a big motivator for me and I’m an avid follower of Buddha.
Tattoo as a profession
If you’re looking to make quick money, look elsewhere. This line is not for the fickle minded; it takes a lot of dedication. I remember tattooing for 20 hours at stretch. If art is your passion, and you would like to give tattoo a shot, then take time to practice – acquire the virtue of patience (smiles). Like I said, it’s not an easy job and you might have to face certain degree of discrimination, although it’s pretty relaxed over here.
As an artist one has to be open to experiments. Unless you are already renowned for one particular style and you have no problems doing only that style, you need to try your hand at different styles. I personally like to do Tibetan, sacred geometrical tattoos.
My first time
I remember getting a smack from my mother when I got my first tattoo (laughs). My parents were really pissed at first, but things have taken a turn for the good. My mom is proud of my work and that means a lot. I guess, if you believe in your work it will eventually shine.
It’s more than skin deep
I have my whole body covered, and trust me tattoos can affect you big time. I’m not just talking about the stares you’re bound to attract, but how you feel inside. I feel empowered by my tattoos. Life has definitely changed for me. Once I tattooed this 20-year old girl with an African Voodoo design, which was supposed to help her fight addictions. I, myself was a little skeptical but strangely the claim came true. She completely left cigarettes, drugs and even coffee. Don’t know if it was magical or psychological, but it seemed to help her.
Getting your first tattoo
Homework! Go out, do your research. Visit couple of artistes; see if you connect with them. It’s important that you opt for reputable studio and that all re-usable instruments are autoclaved, sterilized. Coming to the aesthetic part, don’t just go for the design. Every tattoo evokes response from the bearer and the observer, feel it. Work closely with the artist if you’re confused about the design.
Last words
The most talented artist in the world can only do as much as inking you beautifully, after that it’s up to you to care for it. Clean your tattoos, keep them well moisturized and use sunscreen. Also, do not scratch. That is very important, the scab can damage it.
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