Juan Pablo, better known as Jblessink, is a Toronto-based tattoo artist whose geometric style has captivated clients worldwide. With nearly a decade of experience, Juan has become known for creating tattoos that carry deep meaning and personal connection. In this interview, Juan shares how geometry shapes his work, the journey of growth in his art, and what it means to tattoo with intention and meaning.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
My name is Juan Pablo, also known as Jblessink. I’m a tattoo artist with 9 years of experience, specializing in geometric tattoos. Currently, I’m based in Toronto, Canada, working at Hon Tattoo Studio. I enjoy creating large-scale projects like arm or leg sleeves, and I love how the geometry interweaves between each pattern, forming more complex shapes that flow across the body.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
My fascination with tattoos began in school. I used to draw a lot of tattoo designs, initially focusing on more traditional or blackwork styles. What drew me to them the most was their clean line work, which delivers a fantastic visual appeal.
How and when did you start tattooing?
I feel incredibly lucky to have discovered something I am so passionate about at such a young age. My journey into the world of tattoos began with my love for drawing. I experimented with various styles, particularly neo-traditional and traditional, which significantly influenced my appreciation for linework. It was clear to me from that point on that I wanted to turn this passion into my own tattoo art.
I took my first steps in tattooing in late 2015, just as I was wrapping up my high school education at the age of 17. My initial tattoos were done on myself and on friends from school who believed in my abilities. Since then, I can genuinely say that I haven’t looked back.
How would you describe the tattoo scene in Canada these days?
The tattoo scene here in Canada is massive and full of talent, with a wide variety of artists available for any style you might be looking for. People here love getting tattoos and are great clients who truly appreciate the art and time of the artist. The level of tattoo artists is high and always evolving, which is fantastic for keeping you advancing in your technique and methods.
How would you define your tattoo style?
I love geometry because it’s a highly structured style that offers a multitude of different options to creatively flow with concepts. The cleanliness of linework and dot work can make a huge difference in the final result. Creating clean and detailed geometric work takes quite a bit of time; it’s not something you can rush if you expect a top-notch outcome.
What kind of tattoo projects do you like to do the most?
The geometric tattoo projects I enjoy the most are truly all large-scale works, like arm sleeves, leg sleeves, fronts, or backs. This is where I can flow and integrate all the geometric elements and patterns to converge into a complete piece with character and high levels of detail. In large projects, you can elevate the details to the next level, which I love.
What’s the main source of inspiration for your tattoos?
Geometry and its composition are what inspire me most to create concepts. You can assemble or connect geometric elements in an infinite number of ways. The challenge is ensuring that your concept is balanced and flows properly on the canvas you’re working on.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
The biggest challenge of being a tattoo artist in 2025 is staying ahead of the curve and never stopping your artistic and technical development. Complacency can lead to stagnation in the quality of your work and progress. Another challenge is the sheer number of artists you can find in every city and the role that social media plays in promoting your art. There’s a lot of advertising on social media, which you compete with to reach your clients.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Personally, I consider the trust that clients place in your work to create projects that will be permanent as one of the greatest rewards. This trust is key to being able to realize the projects we dream of completing, and it means a lot for your growth as an artist.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
I have attended several tattoo conventions throughout my career and plan to continue doing so. Tattoo shows have allowed me to test my skills and connect with many people who admire the work that goes into tattoos. It’s an experience I highly recommend for challenging yourself and learning from artists who are passionate about what they do.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you have ever been to?
I remember my first convention; it was in 2017, and I entered the dotwork competition. It was both a challenge and a great experience. I really enjoyed seeing other high-level work, and it turned out to be quite inspiring for my continuous growth as an artist.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
Attending conventions is always a challenge for me regarding the work I will present at the end of the event. Additionally, showcasing your art is crucial; it allows you to meet other industry artists and helps local people become aware of what you do. You can make many connections with tattoo collectors and those who truly appreciate the art of tattooing.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
So far, my favorite convention has been the Winnipeg Tattoo Convention in 2024. I enjoyed the event a lot due to its excellent organization and a very welcoming atmosphere. Everything was in place, ready for you to set up your space and get to work, which is incredibly helpful, especially if you’re coming from another city to participate in the show. I also really enjoyed the project I completed at that show, which was an outer geometric sleeve for Cory that we finished over three consecutive days. I look forward to returning this year!
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
My advice would be to remain open to constant development and not to be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone. Tattooing is a profession that requires extensive preparation to achieve exceptional results. Be prepared for long hours of study and hard work, as the outcome will be worth it!
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
There are several artists I admire for their work and trajectory in tattooing. Some of them, like Black Symmetry, Corey Divine, and Stuttos, have incredible graphic lines; their work is very inspiring.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
My greatest achievement was migrating to Canada with a visa as a tattoo artist. I never would have thought that I could obtain a work permit to create my tattoos in another part of the world. That was very inspiring for me. Currently, I continue here as a resident tattoo artist, working on projects for my clients from Canada and the United States. A big thank you to everyone who travels for a geometric tattoo from me. Additionally, some of my greatest accomplishments include collaborating with brands like Kwadron and Pepax Official as a sponsored artist; their support is essential for my work on every project.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
For now, I’m dedicating my time exclusively to tattooing, whether it’s inking or working on digital concepts. My goal is to have a wide variety of concepts available and ready to execute with my clients.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
My goals or dreams for the future include continuing to grow in my work and providing my clients with an even better tattoo experience and quality. I also hope to conduct a seminar on geometry and, at some point, to have my own tattoo shop. I want to further advance my journey with large-scale projects, and I hope to take a leap with them in the coming years.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
I just want to say thank you for taking the time to read this interview. Tattooing means a lot to me, and I do it with great passion. If there’s something you truly love and are willing to give it your all, the results may surprise you.
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