Seigo’s work at VOW TATTOO blends traditional Japanese motifs with contemporary neo-Japanese tattooing, shaped through bold blackwork, strong composition, and modern visual flow. His journey began through painting and deepened through a rigorous apprenticeship, shaping a disciplined approach grounded in both technique and long-term vision. He views tattooing as a lifelong pursuit—one that remains exciting and constantly evolving.
His philosophy centers on trust, craftsmanship, and meaningful connection with clients, ensuring each piece holds lasting value rather than becoming disposable art. At the same time, Seigo embraces growth through mentorship, building a strong studio culture where knowledge is shared and refined collectively.
Looking forward, Seigo aims to expand globally, refine his artistic identity, and contribute to the next generation of artists through his apprentices. His focus remains clear: continuous improvement, strong community, and creating work that resonates both personally and culturally.
Let’s step into his world.
- How would you like to introduce yourself?
Nice to meet you, I’m Seigo, owner and tattoo artist at VOW TATTOO, specializing in Japanese-inspired tattoos with a strong focus on blackwork.
- Where can your clients find you?
My clients can find me at VOW TATTOO, Osaka, Japan.
- How would you describe the tattoo scene in your country these days?
Traditional Japanese tattooing remains strong, but many artists are expanding beyond it, creating diverse and modern interpretations. As tattoos become more accepted, more young artists are entering the field, and the scene continues to grow.
- Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
In my early 20s, while pursuing painting, I met tattoo artists and became deeply inspired by their work, which led me into tattooing.
- What does tattooing mean to you personally?
It’s something that continues to excite me, no matter how much time passes.
- At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
I began my apprenticeship at 23.
- How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
At the time, tattoos were still strongly associated with underground culture in Japan, and my mother was initially upset, but now she supports me.
- Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?
Yes, I trained for six years. It was extremely demanding, with little sleep and income, but it shaped who I am today.
- What did your first tattoo look like?
It was an angel design—very different from my current work, but I remember the excitement of creating it.
- Do you usually do guest spots?
Not yet, but I plan to in the future. We also host guest artists at VOW TATTOO.
- What does your daily working routine look like?
I start my day with family time, then spend long hours at the studio designing and tattooing, often followed by time with apprentices or friends in the evening.
- What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Many tattoo artists are actually very serious and dedicated people.
- How do you determine the price of a tattoo?
I stay close to market rates while allowing room for growth over time.
- What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2026?
Figuring out how to use social media effectively without limiting long-term growth.
- What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
When both the client and I are satisfied and the tattoo resonates with others as well.
- What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
A range of professional machines and inks, including Bishop Power Wand, Cheyenne SOL NOVA, and others.
- How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
A Japanese-based style using traditional motifs with a strong blackwork focus, evolving toward a more modern interpretation.
- Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your clients.
I begin with research and references, often from books, then spend extended time developing the design before execution.
- How do you stay creatively inspired?
I focus on enjoying the process and maintaining a creative mindset in daily life.
- How do you balance client requests with your artistic vision?
If given full trust, I express myself freely; otherwise, I work to meet the client’s expectations.
- Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
I aim to refine my current style and expand my technical range.
- Do you have sponsors?
Not currently, but I’m open to opportunities.
- As a tattoo artist, what kind of tattoo ethics are important to you??
I see tattoos as both my artwork and part of the client’s body, so I prioritize meaningful, lasting work and strong relationships with clients.
- Being a successful tattoo artist requires many different skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
I stay influenced by a wide range of artists and works, both local and international.
- Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?
Yes, I currently mentor seven apprentices and aim to create a space where we can grow together.
- What’s the best piece of advice you ever received to improve your tattooing technique?
Accept frustration as part of growth—being told I wasn’t good enough pushed me to improve.
- How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
While still somewhat restricted in Japan, it’s becoming more manageable as people gain more freedom in where they live and work.
- What’s the biggest trend in tattooing you have noticed in the last 5 years?
Y2K-inspired designs have become popular.
- What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
I hope it will support not only design but also workflow and client management.
- Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
YELLOW BLAZE TATTOO SHIGE, OT, and LAM VIET.
- What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I’ve participated in major conventions such as Tokyobay Tattoo Festival and Naniwa Ink EXPO.
- What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To gain recognition, connect with others, and enjoy the community.
- What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
King of Tattoo 2025, where I won 1st place for a full sleeve.
- What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
I still feel I haven’t achieved my biggest goals yet and aim to grow further and support my apprentices.
- What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
The path is both fun and difficult—keep pushing forward.
- What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
To win at GODS OF INK and build a studio where my team can grow together.
- What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
To build a lasting community through my apprentices and their future work.
- To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
Thank you for reading—I’ll continue focusing on creating the best work possible.
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