We chatted with the owner of Newchoice Tattoo Studio in Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam) and found him to be a humble artist with great admiration for his colleagues.
Hi Jun, how many years have you been tattooing and what has it meant for you to be part of the tattoo art universe from the very beginning?
I first discovered tattooing in 2009 through Phong Ha (IG: @phongtattoo_vietnam), who became my mentor and introduced me to this artistic world. Initially, I didn’t think I could pursue this career, but due to family circumstances, I had to try my best to improve my future prospects.
What happened at that point?
When I first seriously explored Japanese tattooing, I was amazed by Shige-san’s work at ‘Yellow Blaze Tattoo’ (IG: @shige_yellowblaze). Shige’s ability to incorporate realistic elements (wind, waves, flowers, patterns ecc.) while maintaining traditional Japanese cultural nuances fascinated me a lot. It was unlike anything I knew at the time. And so, I began my journey!
Do you think you had some other teachers in your life who with their teachings led you to be what you are?
Continuing from where I left off, I self-taught myself everything online, including English language. I often asked myself questions like “How do they do that?” and searched for answers on the internet. I spent most of my time studying Japanese art culture (Ukiyo-e prints) and comparing it to the works of Japanese tattoo artists.
What changed me next was meeting Tomo-san (IG: @tomo_silkneedletattoo) from ‘Silk Needle Tattoo’ (IG: @silkneedletattoo) in 2016. Since 2017, Tomo-san has been doing guest work at my shop every year. He taught me a great deal, and I’m proud to call him my teacher. Additionally, Shige-san’s works have been invaluable lessons, imparting knowledge about Traditional and Modern art. I was influenced by his work a lot.
Yours is a 100% Oriental style that is best expressed on large portions of skin. Do you consider your tattoos to be true works of art given the size, colors and effort you put into making them?
Yes, most of my clients seek me out for large-scale projects. However, as a young artist, I still have much to learn, and I don’t consider my works to be true masterpieces. Instead, I strive to study the history behind the paintings and the stories of Japan, aiming to accurately depict and convey these themes in my work. I hope that in the future, clients will appreciate my art and support me even more.
I read on Instagram that the ‘New Choice Tattoo’ has no problem defining itself as a place where “The Best Japanese-Asian-Oriental” style is made. Can you tell me more about your own studio?
I started naming my studio (IG: @newchoicetattoo) in 2010. The meaning behind it is that I had chosen the best path for myself. Everyone has opportunities to change their lives, and when you make a choice, it’s a new decision. To succeed, you must be determined and responsible for your choices.
I define ‘Newchoice Tattoo Studio’ as the best place for Japanese-Asian and Oriental styles, so customers understand that we excel in this area.
In the tourism market, customers often stumble upon studios unexpectedly and aren’t aware of their strengths. At my studio, I have a talented young artist called John Tran (IG: @john.newchoice) who has been my apprentice since 2017. He shares my artistic vision, and together, we bring different strengths to the studio, driving its growth.
If you could meet a big name in tattooing (present or past), who would you choose and what question would you ask him or her?
I’ve extensively researched the development and culture of tattooing worldwide and admire many artists, particularly Shige-san, Tomo-san, and Filip Leu. Although I’ve met Shige-san, Tomo-san, and Filip Leu multiple times, I never asked questions because I prefer things to unfold naturally.
Do you have a meaningful goal that you would like to see achieved in the next twelve months?
To refine my craftsmanship and spend more quality time with my family! In recent years, the tattoo industry has rapidly evolved in terms of quality but has lost its roots and essence.
I hope the younger generation can slow down, appreciate the process, passion, and history of tattoo culture.
And your last famous words are… ?
My guiding phrase is “Live My Life” forever inked on my finger as a poignant reminder to seize every moment. For life itself is a masterpiece, and its beauty shines brighter when lived with intention and passion.
