The living legend and owner of Copenhagen’s ‘Death or Glory’, tattoos sublime Traditional pieces, loves The Clash and enjoys life. Exactly as it should always be.
Siggy, let’s start immediately with a simple question: how did you become a big name of Traditional tattoo?
You are way too kind. I always strive to get better. But accept that it takes time. I try not to cut corners. And I don’t get frustrated that I’m not as good yet as I want to be.
Do you remember exactly the day and circumstance when you fell in love with the Traditional style for the first time ever?
When I started tattooing I didn’t know what Traditional tattoos were! (laughs) I knew I liked the tattoos that old sailors had.
I worked in a factory with this older guy who had a rad panther on his arm.
But it took a long time to understand what Traditional tattooing is and how to do it. It happened gradually.
Do you think you have had indisputable masters in the approach to Traditional or is this business of preserving and bringing the most iconic style of tattooing into the third millennium something in your blood?
Oh wow. Big question! It definitely doesn’t run in my blood. Nothing does. But I love it to death. I have learned stuff from countless tattooers during the years. And feel like there is something to learn from almost everyone.
Do people who love tattoo art go to Copenhagen more to see the Little Mermaid statue or to visit you, by appointment, in your ‘Death or Glory’ tattoo studio?
Hehe! Actually I do a lot of mermaid tattoos on tourists so I guess you can get both! (laughs) The statue is disappointingly small though. So come get a tattoo instead… (IG: @deathorglorykbh).
Seriously is your waiting list quite long or is it just necessary to arrange an appointment to get a tattoo from Siggy?
My waiting list is usually no longer than one or two months. Sometimes shorter. It’s always a good idea to get an appointment. But I do walk-ins every now and then too.
Does the name of your tattoo studio owes something to the famous Clash song or to Runnig Wild the album of the same name…?
The Clash! I’m a big punk-rock fan! Punk is a big part of why I got into tattooing. It’s also fitting that the title from the song has been a popular tattoo long before that.
What is your current relationship with international tattoo conventions and what about guest spots?
I go to conventions every now and then and my last one was in Montreal. Also I guest sometimes. Usually in shops where friends of mine are working. But I have to admit I like working at home the most.
I love coming home to my wife and dog at the end of the day.
Do you have a wish that you would like to see come true in a not too distant future?
I wish for sunny motorcycle-rides, good dogs, perfect poops, loud punk, big tits, free beers, tasty tacos and peace on Earth for ever!
And your last famous words are… ?
Ever had a sausage in a waffle with shrimp-salad on top? That’s pretty awesome! You should try it.
Follow ‘Death or Glory’ tattoo studio on Instagram: @deathorglorykbh
