IN THIS FORMAT WE INTRODUCE YOU TO A TATTOO SHOP PRESENT IN THE “TATTOO ARTISTS YEARBOOKS”, A HANDY GUIDE TO THE TATTOO SHOPS IN EUROPE.
Discovering this French tattoo artist who is always on the road and capable of creating a significant balance between beauty and darkness.
Hugo, would you like to tell us about your artistic journey that brought you here?
My journey as a tattoo artist has been a gradual evolution fueled by passion and dedication. There were pivotal moments when I realized tattooing was my calling, sparked by a deep connection to the art form and its ability to express emotions and stories on the skin.
You have defined your style as “Dark Fantasy, Refined but Disturbed”. I would like you to better define that word “Disturbed” because I think a large part of your art lies in it…
When I refer to my style as “Refined but Disturbed,” I mean that there’s a sense of elegance and intricacy combined with elements that evoke unease or provoke thought. It’s about creating a balance between beauty and darkness, exploring themes that challenge conventional perceptions.
Do you think you have had masters you have never met in your life (so I am not talking about tattoo artists, but visual artists who can inspire you…) whom you would like to thank here?
Absolutely, there are countless visual artists whose work has inspired and influenced me, even if I’ve never met them.
I’d like to express gratitude to these masters like Caravaggio, Rubens, Roberto Ferri, Tom Bagshaw and more.
Also a lot of my inspiration come from video-games and movies, and things I see randomly, sometimes random stuff.
The use of colour occasionally returns in your artistic universe. What is it that mainly leads you to “re-use” it? The particular subject of that particular tattoo or other factors?
The decision to use color in my tattoos is often driven by the specific subject matter and the emotional impact I want to convey. Sometimes, color adds depth and intensity to the piece, enhancing its overall impact and allowing for more creative expression.
I imagine that you have a lot of music lovers among your clientele because your series of realistic rock portraits (I mention at random: Rammstein, Jimi Hendrix, John Lennon, Kurt Cobain, Marilyn Manson, Slipknot, several American rappers, etc.) is very impressive. Do you like music too?
Music is a huge source of inspiration for me, and I’m fortunate to have many clients who share that passion. Creating realistic rock portraits allows me to merge my love for music with my artistic talent. I often choose music that reflects the mood and energy of the session, creating a dynamic atmosphere. But lately, I took a turn on more Dark Fantasy subjects.
Can you give me your definition of tattoo-related “perfection”? Assuming there is such a thing as perfection…
Tattoo-related “perfection” is subjective and elusive, but for me, it’s about achieving a harmonious balance between technical skill, artistic vision, and the client’s desires.
It’s about creating a tattoo that not only looks flawless but also resonates deeply with the individual wearing it.
Do you have a reference studio for your work or do you move on the road between guest spots, conventions, seminars and sessions by appointment?
I don’t have a permanent studio. I travel between guest spots, conventions, seminars, and private appointments. This allows me to reach a broader audience and collaborate with fellow artists while maintaining flexibility in my schedule.
How does your waiting list work: does a lot of time pass between the first contact with the customer and the actual start of work?
My waiting list varies depending on demand and scheduling availability. Usually not more than 3 months, since I’m always on the road.
CONTACTS:
HUGO FEIST
Instagram: @hugofeist
Facebook: @hugofeist
PUBLISHED IN GERMAN, ITALIAN, FRENCH, ENGLISH AND SPANISH EDITIONS. EVERY YEAR EACH VOLUME SHOWS HUNDREDS OF TATTOO IMAGES AND PRESENTS THE TATTOO SHOPS IN EACH COUNTRY WITH ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED.
