by William Thidemann Photos courtesy of Hiro
From the April 2007 issue of PRICK Magazine.
Hiro's big, bold layouts pull you into a realm of work that moves from traditional Americana back to traditional Japanese. With influences as far-reaching as Owen Jensen, and as natural as Ukiyoe prints, his style combines an intense boldness and richness not found anywhere else. Hiro's real act lies in maintaining a perfect balance of big and simple swaths of intense black and color with interspersed areas of subtle touch and detail. Hiro is a tattoo artist's artist; everything to be admired about tattooing is present in his work. As well as being a notoriously gracious and friendly guy, in spite of a language difference, he is incredibly accessible. What's not to like?
How long have you been tattooing?
About 12 years.
How and where did you get your start tattooing? Did you have a formal apprenticeship?
I started tattooing in my house, all by myself. I never did an apprenticeship.
Did you have a background in art beforehand?
Not yet. I just had interest for some art style.
What do you think the differences are between tattooing in Japan and tattooing in the United States?
I think USA tattoo artists have a lot of information about tattoo techniques. Japanese tattoo scene was close before a few years ago. Now, it's better.
How do you think culture and tradition affects your perspective as a Japanese tattoo artist?
I think more story affects Japanese tattoo design.
How do American and Japanese styles of tattooing influence you? Which one influences you more?
I'm interested in traditional story, old culture, new culture, and religion.
What artists influence you?
I'm influenced by Kyosai, Hokusai, Kuniyoshi, Ed Hardy, Owen Jensen, Grime, Jeff Zuck, Caravaggio, and many, many artists...I can't choose.
Can you tell me about being a tattoo artist in Japan right now?
Some young tattoo artists skill up very fast. They have good techniques and good drawing, and the Internet is popular for us now. We can see many good tattoos on web sites, which is very good for us.
Is there a big generation gap between tattooed people and non-tattooed people, or is it becoming more westernized?
Yes, we still have a generation gap. I guess big city is not too bad a generation gap nowadays, but I live in countryside. Sometimes I got problems.
What do you see in the future of tattooing in Japan and in general?
Many tattoo artists will get more skill up, more increase of specialty tattoo artists, and I hope that the customer would be more serious about choice for tattoo.
What are your future plans?
I want more visits to tattoo conventions and guest artist spots. I need more study for tattooing.
Any last words?
My English is no good. I hope you understand. Thank you!
