I met Park Jaeung, for the first time during the Urban Land Tattoo Expo in Rome in 2022. We got into a pretty interesting chat and I had the chance to observe some of his beautiful work. We kept in touch ever since and I thought that it was about time to share his journey into the world of tattooing.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
I am Park Jaeung, a Korean tattoo artist with 8 years of dedicated practice, currently based in the vibrant city of Los Angeles. My journey into the world of tattooing is deeply rooted in my upbringing, where I was surrounded by artistry and nurtured by a profound passion for art, instilled in me by my mother. Despite briefly venturing into a different career path, my unwavering love for art eventually led me back to tattooing, where I discovered my true passion.
How would you describe your tattooing style?
I specialize in cover-up and touch-up work, although I’m proficient in various styles such as black and grey and micro-realism tattoos. I approach each piece with a sense of reverence, viewing it as an opportunity to breathe new life into existing tattoos. My goal is not only to create visually stunning designs but also to ensure that they harmonize seamlessly with the body’s natural contours, resulting in timeless artworks that stand the test of time.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The most gratifying aspect of being a tattoo artist is the profound connection forged with my clients through the transformative power of art. Witnessing someone’s initial dissatisfaction with their tattoo evolve into sheer delight and self-assurance with my cover-up is a deeply rewarding experience. Each tattoo tells a unique story, and I am honored to be entrusted with the responsibility of bringing that story to life through my craft. Furthermore, receiving recognition for my work through awards and sponsorships (Bheppo, Emalla, and JOSI) serves as a humbling reminder of the impact art can have on people’s lives.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
My experience at tattoo conventions has been nothing short of enriching. These gatherings serve as a melting pot of creativity, where artists from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared passion for tattooing. I have had the privilege of attending conventions across the globe, from the UK and Italy to Korea, showcasing my work and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. These events have not only provided me with invaluable exposure but have also fostered a sense of camaraderie within the tattoo community, fueling my passion for this art form.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you have ever been to?
Reflecting on my journey, I vividly recall my first tattoo convention in Belfast, United Kingdom, back in 2022. The energy there was electrifying, with many talented artists showcasing their skills and enthusiasts buzzing around. Surrounded by a sea of talented artists and eager attendees, I felt a profound sense of belonging within the tattoo community. It was like stepping into a whole new world of ink and creativity.
Receiving first place in the small black & grey category at my inaugural tattoo convention competition was truly an honor, one that I attribute to dedication, perseverance, and a bit of luck. The memories of that achievement remain cherished to this day, serving as a rewarding culmination of years of hard work and commitment to my craft.
This experience fueled my passion for conventions, leading me to participate in numerous others across the globe, including the Rome Urban Tattoo Expo in the same year, where I snagged 2nd place in Best Coverup, and the Korea Tattoo Inspire in 2023, where I proudly earned 2nd place in Small Black & Grey. Each convention holds a special place in my heart, but that first one in Belfast, UK, will always be unforgettable.
What’s your biggest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Perhaps my most significant achievement as a tattoo artist lies in being selected as a guest artist in esteemed tattoo shops across Europe. The rigorous selection process and the opportunity to collaborate with renowned artists in unfamiliar environments were both challenging and immensely rewarding. Additionally, receiving accolades at prestigious tattoo conventions and securing sponsorships from international tattoo supply companies have been pivotal moments of validation in my career. Each milestone serves as a testament to my dedication to the tattoo and fuels my determination to continue pushing the boundaries of artistic expression in tattooing.
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