He started with micro-realism, and then his style evolved over time. He loves to capture the intricate details of a person’s face or the delicate textures of animals & plants and Black and Grey is his main focus…
Lithuanian tattoo artist Jaris Kapcevičius enjoys the neo-Japanese style, for which he is studying the history of Irezumi tattooing, creating new designs.
Hi Jaris, do you want to introduce yourself to our readers? Where are you from and where do you work at the moment?
Hello, my name is Jaris Kapcevičius, but you might know me as Jaris Ink. I‘m originally from Lithuania, where I developed a passion for art from a young age. I’m based in Kaunas, working in a private studio. Tattooing has been part of my life for many years, and it has taken me to incredible places around the world.
You became a tattoo artist after an apprenticeship with Galleon that you named as your mentor. What did he teach you?
Yeah, so Jake Galleon was a transformative experience and I’m happy that I took that chance. He taught me the importance of precision, patience, and understanding the deeper meaning behind each tattoo. His stories about his travels and the art of tattooing inspired me to pursue this path passionately. He helped me develop a keen eye for details, which is crucial in my micro-realism work and overall, in tattooing.
You are focused on black and grey subjects, is that correct?
That’s correct. I’ve always been drawn to the depth and contrast that black and grey tattoos can achieve. The way shading can bring a piece to life and create a sense of realism is something I find incredibly fascinating. It’s a style that allows for a lot of expression and detail.
While black and grey is my main focus, I’m also passionate about color tattoos.
As I’ve developed as a tattoo artist, I’ve started to enjoy the neo-Japanese style. I’m studying the history of Irezumi, creating new designs, and working more in this style. I appreciate how colors look in tattoos and am trying to get more into it.
What are your favorite subjects?
For a long time, my favorite subjects were portraits and nature-inspired themes. I loved capturing the intricate details of a person’s face or the delicate textures of animals and plants. However, at the moment, I’m more interested in Japanese style tattoos. The history of Japanese tattoos, or Irezumi, is fascinating, dating back centuries and rich with cultural significance. Irezumi often features elements like Hannya masks, koi fish, and other traditional motifs.
While I still enjoy nature-inspired tattoos, I find more creative freedom in neo-Japanese designs.
You started with a micro-realism style, is it the same now?
I did start with micro-realism, and while I still incorporate those techniques into my work, my style has evolved over time. I’ve expanded to larger pieces and more complex compositions. The foundation of micro-realism – attention to fine details and precision – remains a core aspect of my art. Recently, I’ve also been incorporating more neo-Japanese elements, finding a new sense of freedom and creativity in this style.
On your website you say: working as a tattoo artist gave me a different perspective on life. Why?
Tattooing has indeed given me a different perspective on life. It’s a unique profession where you form a deep connection with your clients. Hearing their stories and understanding the significance behind their chosen designs has been incredibly humbling. Each tattoo tells a story, often involving personal struggles, triumphs, or cherished memories.
Being entrusted with creating a permanent piece of art on someone’s body is a profound responsibility and privilege.
This has taught me to appreciate the diversity of human experiences and the profound ways art can impact someone’s life.
It’s made me more empathetic and aware of the different journeys people are on. Additionally, the process of continuously learning and improving my skills has instilled a deeper appreciation for dedication and craftsmanship in all aspects of life. Moreover, tattooing has offered me incredible travel opportunities, allowing me to work in various studios around the world.
Through these travels, I’ve met many wonderful and interesting people, each with their own unique stories and perspectives. These experiences have broadened my horizons, enriched my life, and continuously inspired my work. The connections I’ve made and the places I’ve seen have been invaluable in shaping both my personal and professional life.
You say you like to travel for your job, to do guest spots in different studios. Are there some places where you like to go or some studios where you really would love to work?
Traveling for guest spots is one of the highlights of my career. I’ve had the pleasure of working in some amazing studios around the world, each with its own unique vibe and clientele. Some places I love returning to include Stone River Tattoo Company in Scotland. This is my mentors’ shop, that feel like home every time I am going there. I would love to work at renowned studios like Long Live Tattoo Collective, Denver, CO because of their reputation for excellence and the opportunity to collaborate with some of the best artists in the industry.
How do you see yourself as a professional tattoo artist in the next few years?
In the next few years, I see myself continuing to refine my craft and pushing the boundaries of my artistic abilities. I aim to work on larger, more intricate pieces and perhaps even start my own studio and organize another exhibition of my work. I also want to continue traveling, learning, and sharing my knowledge with the tattoo community worldwide. My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact through my art and inspire others to pursue their passion for tattooing.
