Today's guest is Isaac Nichols, a tattooer from Alaska that just finished this commendable project which celebrates folklores, tattooing, and painting. We discussed the motivations and process behind his new book, a little bit of advice for painting and tattooing, and the background story of one of the most celebrated novels in Chinese and Japanese folklore.

Find Isaac on Instagram

The Water Margin: PREORDER

The Water Margin: EXHIBITION

ATAK

Are you a fan of Japanese traditional painting and tattooing?

In this episode I share my findings on the rigorous training methods of Japanese painters during the Edo and Meiji periods, emphasising how expertise was forged through discipline and observation, not just innate talent. It delves into the traditional apprenticeship system, with the Kano school exemplifying this systematic approach.

The discussion also highlights numi geiko, a proactive pursuit of knowledge beyond formal lessons, exemplified by Kyosai's intense training and his broad integration of diverse influences.

The examples of these masters can help you integrate training methods in your own practice to improve and sharpen your skills.

stefbastian.com

Corey is well known worldwide—he’s been tattooing for over 40 years, and his technique and experience are widely respected.

Over the course of his long career, he has reached significant personal milestones and professional accomplishments. You might remember him from LA Ink, tattooing James Hetfield, and working closely with legendary artists like Bob Roberts, Jack Rudy, and Mark Mahoney.

What stands out as the main theme, though, is his deep connection with people—a pattern I’ve noticed both in my own journey and in the stories of other seasoned artists.

Once you reach certain professional and artistic goals, you realise it all boils down to the most basic, meaningful things: friends, family, people.

Corey’s experience and progressive attitude can inspire us to keep our heads up during turbulent times, overcome obstacles, and honour the responsibility we carry as tattooers.

Follow Corey on Instagram

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