The world of Amandine, aka Amare, is populated by “masked characters, chimeras, and little ladies of the woods”: she describes her tattoos as “fairy”, inspired by nature and the beauty of female bodies… And they truly have a sparkle of magic. From Belle Croix-North (France), with love.
Would you like to introduce yourself to the readers of Tattoo Life? Who is Amarë?
Hi! I am a 35 year old tattoo artist, mother of 4 dogs, 1 cat and 8 chickens. And a married woman who is living her best life.
What about your background?
I have been tattooing for 7 years. Before that I was a jewelry designer. I still produce limited edition jewelry collections every month. Side studies I attended Art schools in evening classes, since I was 8 years old. Then I graduated from an animation film school.
“Amare” means “to love” in Italian: is there any related reasons for your nickname?
Yes, my first name is Amandine, and it comes from the Latin word “amare”, which also stands for the affectionate girl. It suits me perfectly. I really like the idea Amare.with.love: to love… with love.
You define your style as “Fairy Tattoos”, and we are so fascinated by the universe you describe: where do you find your inspirations?
Thank you so much. From a very young age I have created a fairy world for myself, masked characters, chimeras, little ladies of the woods. I live in the countryside and spend a lot of time in nature, in the swamps more particularly… my inspirations come from there. And I am fascinated by the beauty of the female body.
Who are the characters you depict?
My characters are generally nymphs, ladies of the woods and shamans, I am a lover of masks, they offer endless possibilities! and I really like to draw aquatic creatures as I imagine them, it’s a fascinating world that we never see, which leaves room to the imagination.
A song, a book, and a movie to describe your style (and yourself)…
Song: Familiar – Agnes Obel
Book: L’écume des jours – Boris Vian
Movie: Shining – Stanley Kubrick
Are there any artists, tattooists or illustrators you particularly admire?
Yes, I am a fan of the work of @winstonthewhale, @lore.morato, and @haivarsly. These are my three favorite tattoo artists.
What do you love the most, beside tattooing?
On the artistic side I love to create masks by working different materials; wood, clay, fabrics, paint. And different objects, I need to create. And my favorite pastime is spending time with my husband and my pets at home, quite simply.
Where are you now and what are you working at?
I live in the countryside, in the north of France, and I tattoo in a private workshop, on my land. In France we have just returned to work on May 19, we were impatiently awaiting this.
Any projects for the future?
Yes, I am working on a new workshop, it will be dedicated to future artistic activities. But it’s a secret project all I can say is that I can’t wait!
Is there anything you want to add that I didn’t ask?
Thank you!
