We were lucky to catch up with Han Hong recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Han thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you share a story with us from back when you were an intern or apprentice? Maybe it’s a story that illustrates an important lesson you learned or maybe it’s a just a story that makes you laugh (or cry)?

As a fine artist, I spent years showcasing my work in exhibitions several times a year. Creating and selling my art brought immense satisfaction, but I yearned for a more personal connection with those who cherished my work. This desire led me to the field of tattoo artistry, where I could create art that people would carry with them for life.

My apprenticeship lasted a year and a half under a mentor renowned for fineline tattoos. The first few weeks were spent mastering the basics: drawing lines with a tattoo machine on fake skin and learning the essentials of setting up and cleaning the station. The repetitive practice felt tedious at times, but I understood its importance for developing a steady hand and precision.

As I progressed, I moved on to drawing shapes like triangles, rectangles, and circles, which further honed my control and stability. Typography came next, where I practiced different fonts and experimented with color ink for line work. Despite my initially shaky hands, I adapted to the machine’s vibrations, and my hand steadiness improved remarkably. Learning to hold the machine correctly was crucial. It provided the stability needed to control the depth and flow of the ink. Practicing on bananas, whose skin reacts similarly to human flesh, helped me understand the needle depth better. This unconventional method was surprisingly effective in preparing me for real skin.

After several months, I was ready to tattoo real skin. My first attempt was a bit of a flop, but I gradually improved. Real skin accepts ink differently, and even small mistakes are glaringly obvious. I felt an overwhelming sense of guilt for my first recipient, but their happiness with the tattoo helped me overcome that feeling. Practicing on my skin and willing volunteers helped build my confidence and skill.

Graduating from my apprenticeship marked the beginning of a new journey. I’m now focusing on creating professional designs in a specific genre, exploring ornamental designs infused with elements of Korean traditional culture. This fusion allows me to blend my heritage with my art, creating unique and meaningful tattoos.

My transition from fine art to tattooing has been challenging yet incredibly rewarding. Each step of the apprenticeship taught me valuable lessons, from mastering basic skills to overcoming personal insecurities. For aspiring tattoo artists, my advice is to embrace the learning process, no matter how tedious it may seem. Every practice session contributes to your growth and mastery of the craft.

Han, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hello! My name is Han Na Hong, and I’m a passionate artist who transitioned from fine art to tattoo artistry. For years, I showcased my art in various exhibitions, enjoying the process of creating unique pieces and selling them to art enthusiasts. However, I wanted to take my art to a more personal and lasting medium, which led me to the world of tattooing.

I’ve wanted to be a tattoo artist since my freshman year in college, but I didn’t know how to start. I almost gave up until a friend introduced me to someone who was an apprentice in tattooing. The information I got from that person gave me the push I needed to jump into this industry. My apprenticeship lasted 1.5 years under a mentor renowned for their expertise in fine line tattoos. This period was an intense learning journey, where I honed my skills from the basics to more intricate designs.

As a tattoo artist, I specialize in creating fine line tattoos and ornamental designs that incorporate elements of Korean traditional culture. My services include custom tattoo designs tailored to each client’s vision and personal stories. I focus on creating pieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also meaningful to the wearer. My designs blend Western and Eastern influences, reflecting my mixed identity of being born in Germany, living in Korea, and now residing in the USA.

My designs are a fusion of ornamental and Korean traditional art, particularly incorporating 단청 (Dancheong), which are traditional Korean decorative patterns used in ancient architecture. This blend allows me to create unique ornamental pieces that stand out. I also design cute and derpy tattoos with an element of humor because, despite the hardships of life, I believe in bringing smiles through my art. Additionally, I create abstract tattoos, maintaining my roots in abstract art, which I have practiced for a long time and am currently studying how to translate successfully into tattoos.

One of the main problems I solve for my clients is turning their ideas and emotions into tangible art on their skin. Whether they have a clear vision or just a vague concept, I work closely with them to develop a design that resonates with their personal narrative. I also ensure a safe, hygienic, and comfortable tattooing experience, addressing any concerns they may have about the process.

What sets me apart from other tattoo artists is my background in fine art and my dedication to blending traditional Korean elements with modern tattoo designs. My multicultural background allows me to infuse both Western and Eastern styles into my work. My meticulous attention to detail and commitment to continuous learning ensure that every tattoo I create is of the highest quality.

I am most proud of my ability to adapt and transition from fine art to tattoo artistry successfully. Each completed tattoo and the satisfaction of my clients is a testament to my hard work and dedication. Seeing my art appreciated in a permanent and personal way is incredibly fulfilling.

I want potential clients and followers to know that my work is deeply personal and crafted with care and precision. My goal is to create tattoos that you will cherish for a lifetime. I am always open to new ideas and collaborations, striving to push the boundaries of what tattoo art can be.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about me and my journey. I look forward to creating beautiful, meaningful tattoos for you!

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Starting my tattoo business was a dream come true, and it required careful planning and resourcefulness to secure the initial capital for equipment and setup. Here’s how I managed to bring my vision to life.

Before diving into tattoo artistry, I had established a successful art business. This business had two main components: One is curating international art exhibitions. I organized group shows featuring artists from various races and backgrounds in cities like Los Angeles and New York. Through this, I learned the intricacies of advertising, writing press releases, and networking within the art community. These skills not only helped in promoting the exhibitions but also proved invaluable when marketing my future tattoo business.

The second is teaching art. I ran a private art studio where I taught students ranging from elementary school children to adults. For high school students, I provided guidance in creating art portfolios for college applications. This included both specialized art college portfolios and general university supplement portfolios, which are collections of artworks submitted alongside college applications to showcase a student’s artistic skills and personal narrative. Each portfolio was unique, reflecting the student’s interests, whether in the environment, personal identity, or other themes. My consulting services ensured a 100% acceptance rate for my students, with many receiving scholarships.

The earnings from curating exhibitions and teaching art classes formed the primary financial backbone for my transition into tattoo artistry. The steady income from these activities allowed me to save up for the necessary tattoo equipment and studio setup. Recognizing the passion and commitment I had for my new career, my family and friends were incredibly supportive. They believed in my talent and dedication, and some even contributed financially to help me get started. Their encouragement and support played a crucial role in my journey.

With my savings and contributions from loved ones, I began researching the best tattoo equipment on the market. Quality was a top priority, so I invested in reputable tattoo machines, needles, inks, and other essential supplies. I also ensured that I had the necessary hygiene and safety equipment to meet industry standards.

Today, I’m proud of the foundation I’ve built for my tattoo business. The journey wasn’t easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. My experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance, careful planning, and the value of having a supportive network. I’m excited to continue growing my business and creating meaningful art for my clients.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about the story behind my tattoo business. I hope it inspires others who are embarking on similar journeys.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to connect deeply with people through my work. Whether it’s through a fine art piece exhibited in a gallery or a tattoo that someone wears proudly on their skin, each creation carries a piece of my soul and tells a unique story.

Art allows me to express my innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a way that words often cannot. This form of self expression is incredibly fulfilling, as it helps me navigate and understand my own journey. Moreover, seeing how my art resonates with others and hearing their interpretations and personal connections to my work is profoundly rewarding. It’s a reminder that art is a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers.

As a tattoo artist, the permanence of my work holds a special significance. Each tattoo I create becomes a part of someone’s identity, a constant companion that they carry throughout their life. Knowing that my art has such a lasting impact and can provide someone with a sense of pride, healing, or empowerment is incredibly gratifying. It’s a unique privilege to contribute to someone’s personal story in such a meaningful way.

My background, with its blend of Western and Eastern influences, allows me to create art that is rich in cultural diversity. Incorporating elements of Korean traditional art, such as 단청 (Dancheong), and blending them with Western ornamental designs, reflects my mixed identity and personal journey. This fusion not only makes my work unique but also bridges different cultures, fostering understanding and appreciation among diverse audiences. In addition to creating meaningful and intricate designs, I love incorporating humor into my art. Designing cute, derpy, and whimsical tattoos brings joy and a lighthearted touch to my work. In a world that can often be challenging, offering a moment of happiness and a smile through my art is incredibly rewarding. It reminds me of the simple yet profound power of creativity to uplift and connect us.Being an artist is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. The freedom to explore new techniques, styles, and mediums keeps my work dynamic and exciting. Even as I continue to evolve as a tattoo artist, I stay rooted in my love for abstract art, constantly seeking ways to translate it into tattoo designs. This continuous pursuit of artistic exploration keeps my passion alive and ensures that my work remains fresh and innovative.

In essence, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the profound and multifaceted impact it has on both myself and others. It’s about creating connections, making a lasting difference, and continuously evolving as a creative individual. This journey is filled with endless possibilities and deep fulfillment, and I am grateful for every moment of it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nicotattoo.com
• Instagram: https://dacham.tattoo
• Yelp: https://yelp.to/HhYq7L8KdK
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/nicohanny.tattoo

Image Credits

Han Na Hong