Today we are introducing Quan, a distinguished tattoo artist from Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, whose work uniquely bridges fine art inspirations & skills, meaningful storytelling and an outstanding dedication to his craft and clients. Since 2015, Quan has blended his background in oil painting with tattooing to create deeply personal, realistic tattoos that flow harmoniously with the body. As the founder of Storyteller INK, he views tattoos as living art, animated by a sense of balance, precision, and respect for each client’s unique story.
His journey, shaped by family support, rigorous apprenticeship, and artistic exchanges, reflects a commitment not only to his craft but also to the community, as he mentors the next generation of artists. With achievements such as Best of Show at the Saigon Tattoo Convention in 2024, Quan embodies the evolving spirit of modern tattooing—where tradition, culture, and innovative artistry converge.
How would you like to introduce yourself?
I’m Quan, living and working in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I started tattooing in 2015 and studied at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Fine Arts. Along with oil painting, tattooing has always been both my passion and my daily job. In 2022, I decided to fully focus on tattooing, applying my painting knowledge to my craft. In 2023, I established my own brand and opened Storyteller INK (@StorytellerInk). To me, the most beautiful tattoos are those that carry the personal stories of their owners, and tattoo artists like us are chosen to tell those stories with our skills.
How would you define yourself in one word?
Balanced.
Where did your fascination for tattoos come from?
Tattooing fascinated me because it combines storytelling with hands-on craftsmanship. I wasn’t born into a wealthy family or exposed to art early, but my family always supported me. My mother encouraged me to follow my heart and create honest work with my hands, which led me to pursue a career in tattooing.
What does tattooing mean to you personally?
Tattooing changed my life. It’s more than a profession. It’s an art form, a way to connect with people, and a medium to turn stories and emotions into living art.
At what point in your life did you decide to become a professional tattoo artist?
After years of balancing painting and tattooing, in 2022 I decided to fully focus on tattooing professionally, merging my painting knowledge with this craft.
How did your family react when you started a career in tattooing?
My family was supportive from the start, trusting me to follow my passion and make a living through honest work.
Did you go through an apprenticeship? How was that experience?
Yes, I started with a Coil machine and RL3 needles, gradually mastering techniques and transitioning to an automatic machine. The apprenticeship taught me patience, precision, and the importance of ethics in tattooing.
As a Tattoo Artist, what does your daily working routine look like?
I focus on balance. Tattooing requires long hours in a fixed position, which can affect muscles and bones, so I take regular breaks to exercise and relax. I also dedicate time to traveling and experiencing different cultures, which inspire my art and provide new creative materials.
What is one surprising aspect of being a tattoo artist?
The greatest reward is meeting people and hearing their stories. Clients bring their life experiences, philosophies, and emotions to my studio. This is a large inspiration for my work.
How do you determine the price of a tattoo?
Pricing is based on complexity, size, style, and the time required. Each tattoo is unique, and I ensure the price reflects both the client’s needs and the value of my craft.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
Creating tattoos that tell a client’s story and seeing their satisfaction is incredibly rewarding. Every tattoo is a collaboration and a permanent testament to that story.
What tools and machines do you prefer to use?
I’ve transitioned from coil machines and RL3 needles to automatic machines. The tool is secondary; mastery comes from practice, skill, and precision.
How would you define your current tattoo style, and how did you end up focusing on it?
I specialize in realistic tattoos, inspired by Renaissance painting and sculpture. I occasionally explore Japanese-style tattoos as well. I focus on creating designs that flow naturally with the body, tailored to each client.
Please walk us through your process when you start a new tattoo for your customers.
I consult with the client to understand their story, then design a tattoo that considers their body’s particular muscles, bones, and movement patterns. Each tattoo is unique, so no design is reused for another client. I aim for a 3D perspective where details flow with the body and move as the person moves.
How do you stay creatively inspired?
I draw inspiration from life, travel, folklore, and textures in the environment. Each culture and historical period offers unique artistic materials, and I incorporate these impressions into my work.
How do you balance client requests with your artistic vision?
I guide clients using my knowledge of fine arts and anatomy to create designs that are both aesthetically suitable for their body and personally meaningful.
Are there any tattoo styles you’d like to explore more?
I enjoy experimenting with Japanese styles, while continuing to refine my foundation in realism.
Do you have sponsors? If yes, what could you tell us about your sponsors?
Yes, I am sponsored by Worldwide Tattoo Vietnam. They provide quality products and support for domestic and international competitions. This has been crucial to my growth.
As a Tattoo Artist, what kind of tattoo ethics is really important to you?
Respect, diligence, and safety. Clients trust you with a permanent piece of art that carries their story, so honesty, hygiene, and ethics are essential.
Being a successful tattoo artist requires many different skills. What’s your favorite way to keep learning?
Participating in competitions, observing international artists, traveling, and practicing consistently.
Do you like to teach or mentor upcoming artists?
Yes, since 2020, I’ve trained small groups of students from basic art knowledge to machine handling. Four classes of students have successfully started their own careers.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received to improve your tattooing technique?
Respect the craft and the client. Skill comes from daily practice, but integrity shapes an artist.
How do you stay at the top of your game?
Daily practice, research, travel, and learning from masters in the field.
How do you feel about the growing acceptance of tattoos in society?
It’s encouraging. Tattoos are increasingly viewed as a form of personal expression and artistry, rather than a symbol of rebellion.
What’s your view on the rise of AI in tattooing?
AI is a powerful tool, but I prefer handcrafted, meticulous work. A tattoo embodies the artist’s spirit, love, and attention to detail—something AI cannot replicate.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Yes, I continue to practice oil painting, which informs and enriches my tattoo work.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
Alex Sorsa and Troshin, for their clean, sophisticated Whip Shading technique, and Master Heng Yue, under whom I had the honor to train.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Very rewarding. Conventions allow me to meet artists and clients from all over the world, exchange ideas, and gain inspiration.
How do you usually prepare for a tattoo convention?
I focus on perfecting my designs, refining techniques, and researching cultural references.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
To showcase my work, learn from global artists, and connect with clients.
Have you ever had the opportunity to participate in any tattoo contests?
Yes, I won awards at the Vietnam Ink Festival 2024 and Best of Show at the Saigon Tattoo Convention 2024.
Was there any event in particular that really boosted your career?
Winning Best of Show at the Saigon Tattoo Convention 2024 significantly increased my exposure and credibility.
What is your greatest accomplishment as a tattoo artist?
Establishing Storyteller INK and mentoring students who have gone on to start their own careers.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
Start with passion and dedication. Practice daily, respect your clients, and always uphold ethics and honesty.
What are your goals or dreams for the near future?
I hope to bring Vietnamese tattooing to the international stage and participate in prestigious conventions worldwide.
What legacy do you want to leave as a tattoo artist?
To be remembered as an artist who creates meaningful, handcrafted tattoos that carry the stories and spirit of the people they belong to.
To close this awesome interview, what’s your last message to our readers?
To young people seeking their own path: follow your passion, work diligently, and continually strive to push beyond your limits.
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