The extra Ryu discovers in regards to the cosmos, the extra our planet appears to be full of superfluous noise.
Ryu states, “tuition was costly, and I typically needed to skip meals as a result of I couldn’t afford meals,” referring to the monetary difficulties he had when enrolled in Sahmyook College’s artwork and design program. He as soon as sketched on clear cardboard bins he discovered on the road as a result of he couldn’t afford to purchase a drawing guide, and turned them in for a category task. Not solely did Ryu stand out, however he additionally shaped a number of lasting connections as a result of his distinctive creativity and resourcefulness in benefiting from what was accessible.
Ryu labored part-time jobs at eating places to fund his self-taught tattooing and his aspirations for a profession within the arts. He has been honing his abilities since 2018 and relocated to Australia in 2023 to work in a tattoo studio.
Ryu claims the higher physique is his favourite half to tattoo utilizing Magnum needles and copious quantities of black ink. “The muscle and bone constructions within the higher physique are significantly interesting to me, and designing to enrich them is so enjoyable!” Pleasure for the chance to create a bodysuit can be evident.
This Scene360 interview examines the impact and philosophical significance of his work, which showcases emotive power and brushstroke-like varieties. Ryu, an introvert who typically stays to himself, beloved expressing himself in the course of the dialog.
Brushstroke tattoo carried out freehand and energetically.
Please describe your transfer to Melbourne, Australia. Additionally, what are your favourite features of town?
In South Korea, tattooing remains to be unlawful, so I couldn’t totally get pleasure from a life centered round tattooing. In 2023, two years in the past, my spouse, Yojogrim, and I got here to Melbourne. We beloved the climate and the homeowners of the studio the place I at the moment work. They’ve at all times been extremely supportive, and to at the present time, they’re the closest individuals to us. We even stay proper subsequent door to them.
The espresso is great in Melbourne. Individuals are genuinely form, and the daylight is gorgeous. On a sunny day, driving whereas listening to music looks like heaven.
This summary rib cage art work is de facto fascinating.
What are the advantages of being married to a different tattooer?
If I had married somebody with an everyday job, they most likely wouldn’t have understood my unpredictable schedule or my [artistic] sensitivity. However we all know one another, even when we all of a sudden must examine our telephones for work whereas on a date or strolling down the road. We each understand how consumed we’re by our work. We additionally typically focus on worries and considerations associated to tattooists. These items give us a better sense of stability collectively.
Even with out the precise image, the that means of life’s yin and yang could also be represented.
Your tattoos have a non secular aspect, equivalent to reflecting on the universe, your environment, life’s stability, and extra.
Since I started learning artwork, I’ve typically mirrored on the that means of my existence. Naturally, I developed a deep curiosity in philosophy, science, and the universe. I’d watch greater than 100 movies a 12 months. I as soon as learn a philosophy guide by Carl Jung, which included a passage drawn upon Greek mythology—“In all chaos there’s a cosmos, in all dysfunction a secret order.” These phrases left a long-lasting impression, and now I attempt to not suppress the chaotic ideas inside me, however as a substitute discover a stability with them. I additionally make use of this idea in my designs. Though it’s nonetheless difficult, it stays a guiding thought for me. I hope my ideas will proceed to grow to be clearer over time.
Motivated by ensō ink work, which can signify the universe, energy, and enlightenment.
Your blackwork resembles ink-wash work and calligraphy. Is that the first aesthetic affect?
I’ve by no means formally studied ink wash portray or calligraphy. I’m not significantly expert at creating clear, exact strains—however conversely, I’m good at making tough, expressive strokes. As I made a decision to concentrate on what I do greatest, I turned extra drawn to summary artwork and located magnificence in numerous summary textures. Brushstrokes are fascinating as a result of they will convey a way of softness or pace and energy with out depicting any concrete form. I really feel brushstrokes carry feelings inside them. For instance, I like brushstrokes that seem highly effective and difficult. Inside these tough strokes lies a catharsis that comes from imperfection. This might help launch, even somewhat, the strain individuals really feel to be good on a regular basis.
This daring again tattoo combines components of calligraphy with neo-tribal types.
Black ink is used closely. Is that this advantageous for cover-ups?
Sure, it may be a bonus, and I obtain many inquiries about it. I get pleasure from creating works with a heavier ambiance. I like blackwork that incorporates a robust distinction between the pores and skin and the tattoo, mixed with tough textures. Its enchantment lies in its simplicity and readability.
Cowl-up tattoos carry a sure weight as a result of they’re meant to hide a shopper’s remorse. Each the design course of and tattooing itself might be difficult, however once they work properly, it’s rewarding. Typically shoppers convey me concepts which might be unimaginable to execute, and explaining why generally is a bit awkward—however I welcome all concepts and respect them.
Intense black ink and thick summary brushstrokes create a cover-up.
What are among the challenges of cover-ups and blastovers?
Even after finishing a cover-up design and making use of the stencil, it typically doesn’t align precisely as anticipated as a result of picture distortion or the pure curvature of the pores and skin. That’s why I favor to work freehand. One other problem is that many consumers’ pores and skin is already closely broken or scarred from earlier tattoos, which may trigger extra bleeding, make constant packing troublesome, or end in heightened sensitivity and ache. I typically really feel sorry when shoppers are in ache, however the work should be carried out. On uncommon events, I’m wondering if they could resent me for it.
Blastovers—daring and easy designs stand out clearly even when positioned over present tattoos, whereas extremely detailed blastovers on previous tattoos might seem congested.
A mixture of lotus blossoms and painterly strokes.
What’s MooRee?
MooRee is a artistic group based in Seoul by Dino (the proprietor of the studio the place I labored, “Tattooing Home”), Saru (a fellow crew member), and me (Ryu). Though it’s nonetheless in its early phases, we plan to collaborate with artists from numerous genres to create works equivalent to clothes, jewellery, and different objects. The merchandise I’ve personally designed are quickly to enter manufacturing, and I’m enthusiastic about it—it has grow to be a terrific supply of motivation for me these days.
The long-lasting Christian cross in ink-wash styling.
Give some hints in regards to the merchandise you may have designed?
It’s not finalized but, however I’m contemplating clothes embroidered with summary floral designs. It’s nonetheless within the mid-stage of growth, so it’s exhausting to share particulars at this level. The design is more likely to bear a number of adjustments earlier than it’s finalized.
Ryu obtained the award “Tattoo of the Day” on the Melbourne Rites of Passage Pageant.
Are you able to envision the “Korean Wave” of tattoo artists simply having their designs featured on the style runway?
I haven’t actually thought in regards to the trend runway, however I hope will probably be attainable sooner or later. Though my occupation is tattooing, I need to discover numerous features of artistry past tattooing, equivalent to clothes design, YouTube content material creation, art work, exhibitions, and extra. I need to dream large and hold attempting new issues.
Pictures © Ryu
