The outlaw hero Namikiri Chojun, depicted in Japanese Ukiyo-e (the “Suikoden” collection), was initially impressed by the Chinese language novel “Water Margin.”
Ask him why he makes use of the alias “Goodmorning,” and he explains that it’s uplifting. His constructive outlook extends to his tattoo appointments—does he pair it with tea or espresso?
For this Singaporean, Goodmorning’s recognition within the arts got here slowly. After being rejected by two artwork schools, he shifted away from his dream of instructing. Nevertheless, tattooing, which he started in 2012, allowed him to remain related to his inventive aspect.
He prefers daring, stylized tattoo designs that last more and makes use of purple, black, grey, and generally white ink. Drawing on Japanese custom, Goodmorning creates Kame-no-Kou (“tortoise shell”) works that cowl the again and buttocks and sometimes prolong down the thighs. As an illustration, he spent almost 70 hours on the tattoo above for a larger-built consumer. As well as, he develops important topics—dragons or snakes—with out backgrounds (within the Nukibori fashion).
To discover extra of his work, scroll down for samples. Past visible examples, you may also study his stencil-versus-freehand percentages, in addition to his tattoo inspirations.
Peace, prosperity, and lengthy life are the qualities that the crane represents.
Did you get a proper apprenticeship in Japanese tattooing, or are you self-taught?
I’m self-taught as a result of the studio I wished to affix charged an apprenticeship payment, and I didn’t have the cash on the time. My first machine was launched to me by artist Donald Ink, who did my first tattoo and in addition gave me recommendation on a tattoo machine. He was launched to me by my high-school good friend, who acquired his tattoo from him. That connection kick-started my tattoo journey. After a yr of being self-taught, I joined Odd Tattooer, who was launched to me by a good friend when he opened his studio. One other yr later, once I realized I wished to dive deeper into Japanese tattooing, I joined Nicckuhori, my grasp specializing within the artwork, for additional studying.
The position of the dragon (Ryu) is usually that of a benevolent guardian, bestowing knowledge, power, security, and luck.
What are a few of the key teachings concerning longevity in a profession and life that Nicckuhori taught you?
Once I stepped into Nicckuhori’s studio, all the things was quiet—no speeding, no shortcuts, no ego. Simply focus. Watching him work, I noticed that tattooing wasn’t merely about creating a wonderful design; it was a self-discipline. To him, the human physique wasn’t a floor—it was a panorama. He confirmed me how a composition ought to stream with muscle groups, transfer with breath, and wrap across the physique as if it had been meant to be there. Regardless of how expert you assume you’re, there may be all the time extra to be taught. Watching him work jogged my memory that mastery isn’t a vacation spot—it’s a lifelong path. What I realized from him wasn’t simply approach. It was self-discipline, intention, and the quiet delight of doing issues the precise method—even when nobody is watching.
A variety of topics, from a dragon to Hannya masks. Hikae, or panels throughout the chest, and Shichibu, or three-quarter sleeves.
Who’re a few of your outstanding influences inside the tattoo area?
Donald Ink, Nicckuhori, Cover Ichibay, Horihiro Mitomo, Horihana.
A snake (Hebi) representing safety, renewal, knowledge, and the twin facets of risk and guardianship.
Kindly elaborate in your strategy and philosophy concerning your tattooing.
I choose tattoos which can be huge, daring, and simple, as a result of they are often learn clearly from a distance and carry power even a long time later. For backgrounds, I like them huge and black to create distinction and make the topic stand out extra vividly. My colours keep easy, daring, and lasting, resisting blurring and fading to retain their readability.
The deity Fudō Myōō embodies self-discipline, bravery, and inside resolve because it annihilates ignorance and evil.
Which animals or characters do you want working with probably the most?
I actually love tattooing dragons, snakes, and warriors like Tenjiku, and so forth.
Rorihakuchō, a determine seen within the “Suikoden” woodblock prints, is a monk-warrior who stands as much as corrupt authorities to save lots of the defenseless.
What proportion of stencils do you utilize, and what number of freehanding?
Stenciling is used for 60%-70% of the topic, whereas freehanding is 30%-40%—primarily for backgrounds.
The inherent challenges of a giant cover-up.
Are cover-up tattoos an possibility?
Sure, cover-ups are a love-hate state of affairs. They aren’t all the time supreme for a portfolio, however they’re difficult and rewarding. The most effective strategy is to keep away from putting the focus of the brand new design, like the primary topic, immediately over the previous tattoo.
Singaporean tattooer Goodmorning in his non-public studio.
Do you may have intentions to go to Japan?
Maybe I’ll go to Japan and meet its artists. Doing so may give me deeper perception into what attracts me to tattooing, and studying extra concerning the origins of Japanese tattooing could possibly be attention-grabbing as nicely.
Pictures © Goodmorning
