We’re thrilled to showcase a tattoo artist whose passion and dedication have shaped his craft for over a decade. Watchara Aek Suyakong, also known as Aek, is a Thai-born artist who has built a solid international reputation for his beautifully blended Japanese and Realistic tattoos. Let’s find out more with this exclusive interview.
For the readers who are not familiar with you, how would you introduce yourself?
I am a tattoo artist from Thailand, usually in Chiang Mai, in the north. I have loved drawing since I was young, and fortunately, I have a warm family that supports me. At that time, I was looking for a career that could generate income for my family. One day, by chance, a friend invited me to join the tattoo industry, which was a great test of my thirst and challenge. So I started learning from people close to me, friends. Tattooing is like a small starting point that can generate income. In 2013, I opened a shop called “Tattoo REAL Since 2013“, where I created an attractive atmosphere in the shop. I started competing in tattoo conventions around the country, gaining customers who followed my work. Now, after many years of planning, I have moved to the United States to start a new journey, and I hope I will succeed as well.
So you started your career in tattooing with an artistic background?
Yes, I graduated with a degree in art. Because of my love and passion for art and the popularity of tattoos in our society, I decided to get involved in tattooing.
At what point did you start tattooing professionally?
Well I started my tattoo career back in 2013, by drawing and designing tattoo designs. Before opening my shop, I practiced at home with friends. After a while, as my work developed and I wanted more people to know about my work, I have invested in opening my own tattoo shop.
Where are you currently based?
I’m now based in New York (USA).
How would you describe the tattoo scene these days?
Over the past decade, tattoo artists have had to fight hard to gain social acceptance of tattoos, tattoo artists and professional tattoo artists. Today, a new generation of tattoo artists is able to present their tattoos to society more than ever before. Their work also reflects the tattoo influences from many parts of the world, thanks in part to the influence of social media such as Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Pinterest and more. In addition, the number of people who love and are proud of their tattoos has increased to the point where tattoos are now widely accepted.
What do tattoos mean to you?
Tattoos express our identity, express our love and faith in body art, art that is with us forever, which has its own meaning and is beautiful according to what we believe. For me, the advantage of having a tattoo is the change to do what I like. It makes me proud of myself. In the end, whether a person is good or bad doesn’t depend on the tattoo. Tattoos cannot change a person’s mind. They are just body decorations.
What kind of tattoo projects do you like to do the most?
I enjoy working with both arms and legs in Realistic, Freestyle, and Japanese styles.
What’s the most challenging aspect of being a tattoo artist in 2025?
Customer service is very important. Pay attention to the small details of the work, give advice and offer the best options to customers. It can build credibility and every job I do, I do it with intention. I am serious about my work. When customers like the results, they trust me.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a tattoo artist?
I like it, I like it, I’m in this job, doing what I like, it’s just art. I like art and I like tattoos a lot, it‘s just a feeling.
What’s your experience at tattoo conventions so far?
Well a good tattoo competition can be a powerful motivator to achieve the best results and our goals.
Do you remember the first tattoo convention you have ever been to?
I remember it well. Even though it was a small convention, I was still quite nervous and excited. Haha.
What’s your primary reason to attend a tattoo convention?
Of course I love competitions. It’s a way to measure or demonstrate our knowledge and abilities to others, and it’s a great way to connect, exchange ideas and perspectives with people all over the world.
What’s your favorite tattoo convention so far? And why?
New York Empire State Tattoo Expo & Golden State Tattoo Expo. Those are big and influential events where we can meet, exchange, study, and gain experience from many artists from all over the world.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career as a tattoo artist?
There are no shortcuts if you want to really succeed. Start now. Pay attention to every detail in every step of your work. Give your best advice and options to customers to build your credibility. Cleanliness is imperative. And do everything with determination and seriousness. Set clear goals for your career.
Who are the people you admire the most within the tattoo community?
Dmitriy Samohin, Chriscrookstattoo and Nikko hurtado.
What’s your biggest personal goal as a person?
I want to be famous, have a stable income, live the life I want, stay healthy, eat delicious food with the people I love, and have a warm family.
Do you do other forms of art besides tattooing?
Normally, I like to paint. Oil, watercolor, acrylic.
What are your plans for this year?
During 2025, I will be attending tattoo conventions across America to gain more experience, learn, and further develop my skills.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
The continued development of tattoo art may also change the way society views tattoos. The work of young artists who adapt to global trends and move away from traditional cultural concepts may be the key to helping tattoos develop into a mainstream art form that is not only not rejected, but also a platform for tattoo artists to proudly inscribe their own style.
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