We are honored to present today Anki, a Hong Kong-based tattooist whose work bridges ancient aesthetics and modern expression. She places great importance on meaningful communication with her clients, often choosing to freehand directly on the skin to create designs that feel organic and uniquely theirs.
From bold bodysuits to delicate, romantic pieces, her work is a tribute to timeless tradition and the intimacy of shared expression. Step into Anki’s world, where every tattoo is a journey, each line carries depth, and the past and present come together through ink.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
Amm… hello, this is Anki, a tattooist from Hong Kong. I’m a modern person, but I feel like I live in an old era.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Tattoos bring me peace. They’re my comfort zone. Most people take time to get used to their first tattoo, but I was the opposite. I felt like I should’ve been born with some marks on my body, lol.
At what point in your life did you become a professional tattoo artist?
I remember the moment clearly. I was thinking, “Should I be responsible for somebody else or for myself?” That’s when I knew I wanted to become a tattooist.
How do you balance creativity with the client’s personal vision?
I believe good communication is the first step. I always think in terms of “us,” not just your ideas or my designs. For me, a successful tattoo feels like: “We did it!”
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Hong Kong these days?
In Hong Kong, I believe we still have many treasures waiting to be discovered.
How would you define your current tattoo style and how did you end up focusing on it?
Right now, my work focuses more on oriental elements. I’m trying to combine them to create something new, like a modern suit made from ancient threads. I think I fell in love with oriental culture when I was around 10. I learned Erhu, Chinese calligraphy, and painting when I was young. I just love the romance of the old era, something you can’t really find now :)
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
I usually spend quite a long time getting to know my clients first. I need to understand who they are and let them know who I am too. If we’re aligned, it only takes 10 – 15 minutes to finalize the direction of the design. Then I’ll freehand a draft on their body to check if we’re in sync. If it feels right, I’ll freehand again on the tattoo day or sometimes just tattoo immediately.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
A tattoo artist in 2025 has to be multitasking, that’s for sure.
What’s a tattoo project that challenged your skills the most?
Bodysuits really challenge me. It’s not just about tattoo skills, it’s about learning how to work closely with the client, building trust, and seeing the entire journey through to completion.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve participated in The Ink Factory, Big London Tattoo Show, Singapore Ink Show, Brussels Tattoo Convention, and the Hong Kong Tattoo Convention.
Did you ever participate in any tattoo contests?
Yes, I’ve joined a few contests and I’m happy to say I’ve won some prizes too.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
Conventions give me motivation. Seeing the spark in other artists’ eyes reminds me of why I became a tattooist, especially during times when I’ve felt discouraged.
How do you think tattoo conventions could improve for the artists and the public?
They’re already helping so much by bringing more great art into the light and showing the world that tattoos are no longer just an underground culture.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
The Ink Factory is my favorite. They balance everything a great show needs perfectly.
What advice would you give to first-time artists attending or working at a convention?
Go talk to the artists you admire most. Don’t just keep your head down working on your own stuff.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Always stay hungry when it comes to tattooing. It’s a long journey ahead.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
Oh no, I can’t pick just one. But if I have to, I’d say Master Cang Long. Not just because of his tattoo skills, but also his attitude as an artist and as a person.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
For me, it’s not just about tattooing bodies. I believe I’ve tattooed hearts as well.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
Take good care of yourself and really listen to yourself.
What’s the most meaningful feedback you’ve ever received from a client?
“I don’t care how my tattoo looks now. It’s about the whole journey of this tattoo.”
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I don’t have a big dream or target. My only wish is that my passion never fades away.
Do you have a sponsor? If so, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, I’m part of the Kwadron INX Division team. I’m sure most people already know the brand, but I’d like to share that their new ink is the richest, most solid black I’ve ever used.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
To all artists, tattooed people, and even those without tattoos, in this fast-moving AI-driven world, I hope you can slow your steps. Use your heart to see the world, not just your eyes to consume entertainment.
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