To celebrate the 13th edition of the famous Art Tattoo Show. I had the pleasure to interview Valerie Emond, co founder of studio tattoo mania. We talked tattoos, fashion and tattoo show! The Art Tattoo Show will take place in Place Bonaventure from the 11th to the 13th of September. It will reunite more than 250 artists, local as well as international. Tattoos, performances, live music, and much more on the site of the event.
1. Why do people become tattoo artists?
It’s different for everyone, but most of the time, it speaks volumes to people who want to differentiate themselves, have their own lifestyle. In general, it’s for people who truly value their autonomy, people who would rather work for themselves and have the freedom to explore artistically.
2. Is there a typical path to become a tattoo artist?
Usually, the most respectable way to start is to find a mentor. To show respect for the other tattoo artists, you have to start at the bottom. This way, you also minimize risks of potential mistakes by learning from someone who has a lot more experience.
3. What are some qualities of a good tattoo artist?
It’s really important to be comfortable around people. The job requires you to be with the same client for several hours so you have to know how to make them feel at ease, in order to offer him the best possible experience. You also have to know how to reassure a client. A lot of people come in and they’re afraid the tattoo is really going to hurt; you have to show some empathy.
4. What is the place of tattoos in the fashion industry?
Since tattoos have always existed, I think it’s hard to see them as a trend. You could say that some trends do exist when it comes to the style or the location of the tattoo. For example, it’s safe to say that Rihanna’s under-boob tattoo has a certain influence, it is trending right now. Although, some classics, just like a chanel bag, never fall out of trend. You also have to know that a lot of well known designers have collaborated with tattoo artists. It has a strong influence as a part of popular culture; it’s something the fashion industry can’t ignore.
5. What are the classics that never fall out of trend?
Usually, it’s the small tattoos people don’t regret. I would say roses and butterflies are always coming back, but their meaning is different from one person to another.
6. Who should attend the Art Tattoo Show?
Everyone! Whether they’re passionate about the lifestyle or simply art enthusiasts who are intrigued by the industry, everyone is welcome. People usually come for many different reasons. They come to get inspiration for their new tattoos, to discover artists from all over the globe and even to purchase prints from well known tattoo artists. Everyone there, is really open minded and welcoming, they love to share their passion. It’s a really good way to demystify the scene, to know everything there is to know.
7. What are you hoping to bring to the Montreal tattoo scene with the Art Tattoo Show?
Since it’s going to be our 13th edition, we can already see the evolution regarding the quality of the work. Receiving all these people from all over the world allows everyone to compare their work and refine their style. It’s really important to us that Montreal keeps its good reputation in the tattoo world. Other than that, our main goal is to showcase talents, whether they’re local or international.
Photos via Art Tattoo Show