Category: Interviews

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“I’m often inspired by the unique ideas that my clients bring to the table,” interview with tattoo artist Nonlee

Her career in tattooing was sparked by an encounter that changed up her thinking. Here, tattoo artist Jungyeon Kim ( known as Nonlee / @non_lee_ink ) shares her story. And how she morphed her style into the incredible ethereal tattoos she creates today at Ziho Gallery in Seoul, South Korea. Grab yourself a cuppa and settle in for the journey.

What made you fall in love with tattoos?

Before becoming a tattoo artist, I spent nine years teaching students watercolour painting and pencil drawing. One day, a student came to my art class with a unique request: he wanted to learn basic drawing skills to pursue a career in tattooing. While I had personal experience with tattoos, I’d never considered becoming a tattoo artist myself.

This encounter sparked a new interest in me. Even though I found joy in teaching and seeing my students succeed, I always yearned to create art for myself. The pandemic, despite its challenges, provided me with the opportunity to explore new avenues.

Jungyeon Kim (Nonlee)

Your background is in art and teaching, what drew you to this in the first place?

I began teaching art out of necessity. Like many art students, I needed a part-time job to support my tuition and art supplies. Having graduated from an art high school, I had a strong foundation and was able to earn a higher hourly rate. Even after graduating from university, I continued teaching because I enjoyed the interaction with students and the work was a good fit for my outgoing personality.

With your teaching experience, would you ever consider having an apprentice?

I have prior experience teaching tattooing. I currently work with tattooist Ziho at Ziho Gallery in Seoul, Korea. We occasionally hold tattoo workshops. While Ziho primarily leads these workshops, I’ve assisted him and co-taught on several occasions.

Tell us more about the studio, what’s it like?

The studio houses a diverse group of artists, and I find it both beneficial and enjoyable to collaborate with individuals who share similar styles and genres.

How long have you been tattooing for?

I began my tattooing journey in March 2021 under the mentorship of renowned tattoo artist Ziho. I wanted to maximise my artistic potential and create a style that best showcased my abilities.

We love your tattoos, can you tell us about your own tattoo collection?

I have around 17 tattoos. While I cherish them all, three hold a special place in my heart. The most recent one, which has just healed, is florals from @sian_ttt. The second one is a beautifully recreated moth tattoo done by @n.o.u.v.e.a.u. And the third one was done by @oozy_tattoo, one of the artists who inspired me to start tattooing.

Tattoo by @sian_ttt
Tattoo by @n.o.u.v.e.a.u
Tattoo by @oozy_tattoo

Your work has a magical quality to it – ethereal and beautiful – how would you describe it?

My style is primarily based on hyperrealism but leans towards botanical illustration. The most distinctive feature of my tattoos is the use of vibrant and bold colours.

My background in fine art allows me to incorporate elements of oil painting and watercolour techniques into my tattoos, resulting in a unique style that sets me apart from traditional tattoo artists.

Have you always painted?

My undergraduate major was sculpture. However, I’ve also explored two-dimensional mediums such as painting and printmaking. While I’m currently focused on tattooing, my sculptural background has given me a strong foundation in three-dimensional form and light and shadow, which I believe enhances my tattoo designs.

Where does your inspiration come from?

Nature is my biggest source of inspiration. Everything in nature can be a subject for my tattoos. I often go bush walking, visit the beach to observe marine life, or simply explore my surroundings. I spend a lot of time photographing plants in my neighbourhood, especially during spring and summer.

How do you like to work with customers? Do you do mostly custom work or flash too?

I primarily create custom designs tailored to each individual client. I enjoy exploring new subject matter, and I’m often inspired by the unique ideas that my clients bring to the table. However, I also create flash designs, which allow me to explore my own personal interests.

What’s next for you? How would you like your work and style to progress?

I’m interested in gradually transitioning to larger-scale projects. As an artist who pays meticulous attention to detail, I am exploring ways to maintain a high level of detail while scaling up my work.

Do you ever do guest spots and how do we book in?

I announce the dates and locations of my guest spots on Instagram. I usually post this information one to two months in advance, so it’s best to follow my account for updates. In countries where there is potentially a large customer base, spots can fill up within a week.

Make sure to follow Nonlee on Instagram @non_lee_ink for more tattoos and to book yours.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

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“The scene is filled with free-thinking, warm and downright cool people” – Continuous Portrait Project

About five years ago, Cameron Rennie bought an analogue camera from a vintage photography shop in his hometown of Edinburgh. He challenged himself to take ten portraits of his mates. They ended up being mostly heavily tattooed people. Seeing their images in black and white, something clicked aesthetically for Rennie. And so The Continuous Portrait Project was born on Instagram. Photos of people connected to the tattoo world, he wanted to capture its beautiful diversity.

Rennie travels all over the UK to meet tattooers to photograph while they chat. And this blog is an extract from Rennie’s brand new book, The Continuous Portrait Project, which is a selection of his favourite photos – along with a blurb of his memories of the meeting – a moment in time, if you will. Dive in and then buy the book…

words and photos: Cameron Rennie

EMILY COLLINS

Emily and I met at The Big North Tattoo Show in Newcastle, where she is based. At the time, she was running her brand called Rock & Rose Motel, which focuses on making prints and homeware using traditional American tattoo designs.

Around the time this photo was taken, Emily was beginning her apprenticeship at Blind Tiger Tattoo. If her designs from Rock & Rose are anything to go by, I’m sure she will make a fantastic tattooer; her passion and drawing ability are already both there. By the time this book comes out, she’ll be smashing it!

JADE CLARK

Jade’s roots in tattooing are grounded and traditional, which makes her work accessible and accommodating of so many different styles. There’s a real celebration in her work of all styles and interests, and I think this is a great reflection of who Jade is.

Jade’s ability to speak openly and honestly about issues faced in tattooing from underrepresented communities is considered and poignant. It’s been noticed by other outlets as well, as she’s taken to podcasts and panel discussions to continue these important discussions. This, combined with her huge personality, makes her an outstanding person to hang out with. She’s an asset to tattooing and symbolises what is so special about the UK tattoo scene.

KAT HARDY AND EION

Kat Hardy is a tattooer in Bangor, Northern Ireland, who runs the studio Four Oracles Tattoo. Her style blends neotraditional tattooing with dark and romantic elements. She’s also known as a go-to tattooer for rockstars, having tattooed numerous punk musicians. Not only does she tattoo the band members themselves, but she also has a real talent for creating designs that sympathetically reference the music and lyrics.

We opted to take Kat’s portrait in the grounds of Belfast’s botanical gardens. Kat came to meet me with her partner Eion, who I also found an instant connection with. While the shots of her on her own are stunning, I chose this image of the couple together – not only is it a fantastic shot, but it also serves as a reminder of a wonderful time.

NIKKI KOTECHA

Nikki is a Desi tattooer and motorbike enthusiast from London. We met at Regents Park on a scorching summer day, to talk about life, tattooing, and everything in between. When talking about the stigma of tattooing, I felt privileged to hear Nikki’s journey into tattooing and the struggles she has endured to follow her dream.

As our conversation deepened, I spoke about my experiences and thoughts on how I feel there is an unseen force that steers me to meeting certain people. Nikki told me how, in Indian culture, a person’s true purpose is also known as Dharma. This conversation also felt that it had been ‘steered’, as it was at a point in the project where I finally knew what I was put here to do. Although our conversation was brief, it was incredibly deep and meaningful.

RIZZA BOO

After initially meeting Rizza at the Brighton Tattoo Convention, we arranged to meet up for these photos in Glasgow, at her studio Shadow Work. Rizza is a truly special person, not only in her artistry but also as an avid campaigner in highlighting issues experienced by people of colour within the context of tattooing. In addition to this tireless and emotionally-labouring work, Rizza gave critical feedback and took the lead on developing the exhibition Tattoo: British Tattoo Art Revealed, Reclaiming the Narrative in 2022, to include the representation of people of colour.

Rizza is a deep thinker and someone I find very easy to get lost in conversation with. This photo was taken while her friend and fellow tattooer Lord Montana Blue was guesting with her. I was lucky enough to capture them in the midst of tattooing each other; I hope what I captured shows their mutual respect and admiration.

You can order the book from: kntpublishing.bigcartel.com/product/the-continuous-portrait-project

Launch party on Weds 5 Feb at Flamin’ Eight in Camden, London, info on Instagram

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Tattoo artist Lucy Thompson Speaks at TEDxNHS about free nipple tattoos for breast cancer survivors

Lucy Thompson speaks at TEDxNHS

Tattoo artist Lucy Thompson – who’s also an award winner, businesswoman and mother from Cullingworth in Bradford – recently received a standing ovation for her TEDxNHS talk discussing free nipple tattoos post mastectomy. She offers an alternative option to the NHS through her charity The Nipple Innovation Project

Lucy took the stage before an audience of 400, with millions more tuning in via live stream, to share her inspiring story of how her transformative tattoo work has become a lifeline for so many. After her talk, people lined up to speak with her, leaving Lucy deeply moved by how much her work resonates with others and grateful for the opportunity to share her message.

How The Nipple Innovation Project started

Lucy has been a tattoo artist since 2013 and started offering realistic areola tattoos to support women who have undergone breast cancer surgery. Her inspiration came from her aunt, who experienced a mastectomy, breast reconstruction, a nipple graft, and a tattoo in hospital.

Although her aunt recovered well, ten years after her diagnosis, the fading tattoo needed some love. The prospect of returning to the hospital felt daunting, and the impact on her body image deeply affected her self-esteem.

“I asked her what it would mean to her to have this tattoo looking more realistic and she said it would help her feel whole again,” Lucy tells us. “After the trauma of going through cancer, I want to make the restorative period as stress-free as possible and help women feel like themselves again, drawing a line under the arduous journey they‘ve been through. Why should they have to return for future treatment when it can be done in one process?”

Driven by a strong passion for finding a better way, Lucy took matters into her own hands and created The Nipple Innovation Project. 

About The Nipple Innovation Project 

The Nipple Innovation Project became the first charity to collaborate with the NHS by partnering with Bradford Teaching Hospitals to offer nipple tattoo services post-surgery. This groundbreaking initiative caught the attention of TEDx, leading them to invite Lucy to speak about her work and her direct involvement with the NHS.

Lucy founded The Nipple Innovation Project in 2018 to provide education, funding, and access to skilled tattoo artists for breast cancer survivors seeking specialised nipple tattoos. After founding the project after years of doing private work, Lucy’s story went viral through a BBC article. She was soon overwhelmed with requests from women across the country seeking her help with their faded hospital tattoos.

Currently, survivors undergoing mastectomies are offered free semi-permanent tattoos through the NHS, but they often fade and can lead to physical and emotional challenges. Repeat treatments are rarely available due to funding limitations and the risk of further damaging delicate scar tissue. Determined to make a difference, Lucy launched her initiative to advocate for permanent 3D nipple tattoos.

Example of nipple tattoo provided by The Nipple Innovation Project

The project aims to raise awareness of this life-changing services, ensuring people know it exists and have access to information about all available choices, encouraging them to make informed and educated decisions.

“Work was, and still is being done by practitioners who are given minimal training, and they are unintentionally causing further damage,” explains Lucy. “I wanted to make my service accessible to anyone affected by breast cancer without cost being a factor and I wanted to build a directory of artists throughout the UK to make it more accessible to more people, so the charity was born. This has been a huge labour of love, and so much harder than I anticipated, but we are making inroads to this becoming more mainstream, and it is all worth it.”

Lucy Thompson at TEDxNHS

Centered on the belief that ’ideas change everything’, TEDx fosters impactful conversations and the exchange of big ideas worldwide. Having a woman in the tattooing industry take the stage to use this platform for destigmatising a taboo topic is truly incredible.

“The work we do is still so unknown, but it can be life -changing,” says Lucy. “When people come out the other side of cancer, there’s still so much trauma to overcome and after a mastectomy, there‘s not just physical healing, but emotional, too.” 

“Nipple tattoos are offered on the NHS for people who want them, but they are basic, semi permanent and they quickly fade away, negatively impacting a person’s self esteem. Our solution is here to stay and the result is much more realistic looking, as we are using our specific skills as tattoo artists.“

“We also offer our services in a beautiful private studio in a rural setting, out in the countryside, so there are no hospitals and the experience is one that encourages reflection, escapism and serenity, helping survivors to find their confidence again, and to help them love their bodies again after they have been through something so life changing.”

Watch Lucy Thompson’s full TEDxNHS talk, here. 

Follow The Nipple Innovation Project

Stay connected with The Nipple Innovation project by following them on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, where you can witness their stunning creations come to life. 

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“Pixel art tattoos are a unique style that requires absolute precision and a high degree of creativity,” interview with tattoo artist Mr Pixel

He grew up playing loads of video games, so tattoo artist Mr Pixel (@mrpixel.tattooer) who’s based in Singapore, brings that nostalgia into his tattoo style. It reminds him of a simpler time, which especially resonates with us as we came of age in the digital era. Who doesn’t miss their Sega Mega Drive and their 90s childhood bedroom? But pixel tattoos are definitely having their moment in the spotlight so we caught up with the artist to find out more about how he honed his pixelated craft and how he takes inspiration and, well basically, pixelates it … yep to pixel tattoos, nope to pixelated photos…

When and why did you fall in love with tattooing?

I was always curious about tattoos since I was young – mostly because of my dad’s influence. He has a full back eagle tattoo. As a child, I was always curious and fascinated about it. I loved looking at it. It made me wonder about why and how we can have a piece of art work drawn on our skin and hidden under our clothes.

The day I did my first tattoo was the best feeling in my life, because I fell in love with it right away. Being able to express my artwork on and with clients who share and feel the same is amazing. 

Another moment was when I participated in The Lion’s Gate Singapore Tattoo Convention 2024 and competed for Best in Small colour category. I managed to execute a piece of flawless artwork for my client and I’m humbled to be awarded second place. It was fulfilling and a proud moment that keeps me motivated and I look forward to more challenges ahead.

How long have you been tattooing? How did you learn and what was it like learning? 

I started tattooing during the COVID pandemic, I did not go through a traditional apprenticeship. I learnt along the way and I’ve been fortunate to meet amazing artists who guided and shared with me. With a lot of hard work and dedication and together with the support of my sponsors and pro team such as Poseidon Tattoo, Drpickles and World Tattoo Events, I was exposed to more opportunities.

What was your first tattoo experience like?

My first tattoo was done on my thigh! It was a pixelated Pac-Man and that started my journey of pixel tattoos. It was challenging because I needed to focus on my techniques and endure the pain. 

How would you describe your work? 

Pixel art tattoos are a unique style that requires absolute precision and a high degree of creativity. Each design is meticulously crafted, often invoking a sense of nostalgia by bringing back childhood memories of early video games and 8-bit art. These tattoos are not just body art. They are a vivid reminder of a simpler time, resonating deeply with those who grew up during the dawn of the digital age.

How did you develop your style to what it is today?

I grew up playing a lot of games, I enjoy redesigning and expressing my work with a touch of digital age and a sense of nostalgia. Putting colours into my work is essential to bring out the look and feel that I want to achieve. 

What’s your favourite subject/topic to tattoo? Do you do more flash or custom work? 

I enjoy working on custom projects, redesigning any references into a pixel art tattoo, giving it a facelift of a digital look. I enjoy doing both flash and custom work.

What do you like to do in your spare time? Does this inspire your tattoos? 

I love travelling, experiencing different cultures and meeting new people. I’m humbled to be on the pro team of World Tattoo Events, which gave me the opportunity to travel around the world, competing and judging in various tattoo conventions. 

What’s it like tattooing in Singapore?

Despite being a small country in size, Singapore has a dense population with people from different races and cultures. The tattoo scene in Singapore is great! People are open and accepting with tattoos and Singapore is home to many amazing tattoo artists as well. 

Any thoughts on the tattoo world as a whole? Where it is now and anything you hope might change?

I want to continue meeting great artists, learn and share new experiences and knowledge. I want to leave a legacy behind and I am inspired to be one of the best pixel artist internationally.

I’m honored to be invited as part of the panel of judges in the recent Ancona International Tattoo Convention 2024 in Italy. I’m also invited to judge for various conventions in 2025 such as Inkdian in Goa, Art Culture Convention in Chennai and ArtisticInk Festival in Thailand. This gives me an opportunity to give back my knowledge and insights back to the tattoo industry.

What are your hopes for the future?

Over the past few years, the growth in the tattoo industry was enormous. New equipment, tattoo ink, needles, sterilisation and aftercare products made significant improvements in tattoo quality on skin. I hope to inspire artists to keep up with new knowledge and equipment and make the industry a better one!

Make sure to follow Mr Pixel on Instagram @mrpixel.tattooer for more tattoos and to book yours.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

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“I’m cautious about labelling my style, as it makes me feel confined. I enjoy presenting my playful perspective on themes and asking, How about this? Isn’t it fun?” interview with tattoo artist Woo

Yep, yep it is fun… We’re obsessed with the weird and wonderful world of tattoo artist Woo (@lonely_weirdo_club) who’s based in Seoul in Korea. Think Botticelli’s The Birth Of Venus but it’s kewpies wrapped in spaghetti! Yep, told you, we’re OBSESSED. So we couldn’t wait to find out more about Woo’s tattoo journey…

When did you first fall in love with tattoos?

I grew up in Asian culture, which often suppresses individuality, so I’ve always had a resistance to that. Tattoos seemed free and cool, and I became fascinated by them. They provide a way to express our unique identities, which I find amazing.

How long have you been tattooing for and what was it like learning?

I’ve been tattooing for about 16 years now, and I’m still learning. I constantly seek feedback on what to improve and what to maintain in each piece. I strive to upgrade my skills in various ways. My goal is to keep evolving, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

What size needles do you use to tattoo to achieve your bold designs?

I use a variety of sizes, ranging from 7 to 18. However, I mostly work with 11 to 14. A few years ago, I switched entirely to cartridge needles, which has made my process more efficient and versatile.

What was the first tattoo you did on someone?

It was a six-letter name, and at the time I’d only had my machine for less than a month. A friend bravely trusted me and gave me the chance. I was extremely nervous, but the result turned out well. However, I did sweat two litres and ended up feeling unwell afterwards.

How would you define your style?

I’m cautious about labeling my style, as it makes me feel confined. I enjoy presenting my playful perspective on themes and asking, “How about this? Isn’t it fun?” My style is a blend of various inspirations, including American traditional, Japanese, illustration, Japanese culture and street culture.

How did you develop your style to what it is today?

I followed my instincts. I love growth, and I’ve moved in the direction I feel drawn to, which has led me to where I am now. I have a tendency to like things that are unique and fresh.

We agree that your style is super unique; what inspired that?

I drew inspiration from the flexible expression found in American traditional tattooing. I found it fascinating to capture the characteristics of specific subjects and express them in a fun way.

We love your smutty film tattoos. How did these come about? Are people requesting them now?

Thank you so much! Honestly, there wasn’t a specific moment—it just came to me while I was lying down one day. I was inspired by the upside-down kiss scene in Spider-Man. That idea grew and evolved, leading to more designs. Recently, I created a Slam Dunk series, and I’m hoping to turn those into tattoos soon.

What artists do you admire and why?

I’m influenced by the Japanese artist Sabado. He is true to the essence of tattooing and has taught me about understanding the skin, needle and ink design. Sabado is an artist who focuses on quality for personal satisfaction rather than fame, and I strive to follow that path, too. He is often described as a genre in himself, and I couldn’t agree more. I encourage everyone to dive into his incredible charm.

Although not in the tattoo industry, I was deeply inspired by the film Hedwig and the Angry Inch. The message of collecting beautiful pieces of the world and creating new combinations resonated with me. I feel there’s always something to learn from every artist, and I genuinely try to absorb the wonderful aspects they offer.

One of the most striking moments for me is during the song “Origin of Love,” where you can see the pain of separated souls reflected in the character’s eyes. There’s a scene where Hedwig makes eye contact with the audience, and it stirred something indescribable in me. It’s a film that has broken my preconceived notions and helped me turn weaknesses into strengths, making it an invaluable inspiration for me as an artist.

How do you usually work with customers? Do you mostly do custom work or do you create flash too?

I do both! I enjoy creating designs from my own thoughts, but I also love discovering ideas through my clients’ suggestions.

What’s the tattoo scene like where you are?

My work is based in Seoul, which is not very lenient when it comes to tattoos. Because of this, I tend to go on tours abroad.

Are you planning any guest spots? If so, where and how do we book in?

Yes, I often travel around Asia and Europe. I take bookings through direct messages on Instagram – @lonely_weirdo_club.

What has been your favorite tattoo experience?

I love the atmosphere at conventions. Although it can be a bit chaotic, I enjoy the energy of celebrating like a festival. It’s exciting to see people freely enjoying the culture.

What are your hopes for the future?

I want to develop my perspective on the world to be more inclusive. I want to be an artist who captures beauty and expresses it cleverly, transcending prejudice and stereotypes.

Make sure to follow Woo (@lonely_weirdo_club) on Instagram and find out how you can book your next tattoo.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.