Welcome, readers, to an exclusive glimpse into the world of Shamack, a tattoo artist whose journey is as intricate and captivating as the designs he creates. From the raw passion ignited in his teenage years to the culmination of his artistry today, Shamack's story is a tapestry woven with dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
1.How did you start your career in the tattoo world? What attracted you to this form of art?
I began my journey as a 15-year-old boy after being shown a basic homemade machine and some principles of tattooing. I started by drawing everywhere I could, from notebooks at school to walls in houses and pubs. After enjoying my art so much, I built a few versions of homemade machines, starting with an electrical toothbrush to more advanced ones using a Walkman motor and sharpened needles sourced from an iron brush. I challenged myself to find the best machine and equipment to use, perfect the execution process, and achieve the best results on the skin. This passion continued for the next 9 years until I decided to follow this career path after quitting university. In 2005, after considering options for opening my studio in Poland, I came to the UK to secure funding. The first money I saved went towards buying my first set of coil machines from Piotr Zurawski, who showed me the entire process and equipment necessary to transform into a professional setup. In 2008, as I researched opening my studio, I ended up moving to Blackpool to begin my professional career as a tattoo artist at The Dragons Den Tattoo Studio. Transitioning from being a freehand-only custom artist tattooing from home to working in a professional studio marked a significant turning point. Initially, I worked as a walk-in artist but quickly filled my diary with custom tattoos. In 2010, I received an offer from the owner, Keith Butcher, to open a new studio under my management. In 2016, I took over and renamed it Inkden Tattoo Studio. By 2021, we expanded by adding two more floors, including a merchandise shop and a Tearoom Gallery with an art studio.
2. What led you to specialize in biomechanical and realistic tattoo styles?
From the beginning, I was fascinated by the technicality of ink application and pushing the boundaries with visual illusions in 3D tattooing. My goal was to create tattoos that give the impression of depth, inspired by my fascination with technology and robotics since childhood. This fascination, coupled with my interest in custom cars and power-driven vehicles, drove me to incorporate unexpected elements into tattoos, such as ripped skin exposing different layers of the body or mechanical components, to achieve a 3D effect. Additionally, mastering this style posed the greatest challenge in terms of precision in ink application.
3. Who has been your biggest inspiration throughout your career as a tattoo artist?
Many people have influenced my career. Initially, Wojtek introduced me to the first homemade machine, while Piotr Zurawski guided me into professional coil machines and built my first set of professional machines. From an artistic perspective, Tomasz "Tofi" Torfinski has always stood out for me due to the dimension and innovation in his tattoos. Meeting him inspired me to think bigger about my career. Additionally, Guy Aitchison's organic tattoos and educational impact, particularly his book "Reinventing the Tattoo," have been influential. Anil Gupta's intricate and technically advanced mechanical tattoos have also inspired my work.
4. How would you describe your creative process when designing and executing a tattoo in a biomechanical or realistic style?
The creative process begins with understanding the customer's desired style and incorporating elements that resonate with their interests and technology they are surrounded by. This involves planning the composition to fit and complement the customer's body flow and anatomy. Starting with sketches and sculpting body parts in 3D software for reference, I then create a virtual 3D version of the tattoo idea. The transition from 3D to 2D for tattooing involves precise adjustments to fit elements in place. While I cannot replicate exact tattooable effects in 3D software, I use 3D reference as a guide while improvising and refining the design on the skin.
5. What challenges have you faced when working on these detailed and technical styles?
Realistic tattoos require meticulous planning to withstand the test of time, considering the changes in the living canvas and body shape. Most of my projects involve designing pieces that flow around different body parts and technically connect to create cohesive compositions. Working on larger projects that span multiple sessions poses additional challenges, particularly in managing the healing process while maintaining consistency and depth in the overall piece.
6. What is your approach when interacting with clients and understanding their visions for their tattoos?
I begin by understanding the client's reasons and inspirations for choosing a biomechanical style, including examples of tattoos that resonate with them. This helps establish preferences for different mechanics, such as clockworks, automotive, or futuristic elements. Collaborating with clients through sketches and basic 3D designs allows us to fine-tune the design and ensure it complements their body anatomy.
7. What advice would you give to someone considering a tattoo in the biomechanical or realistic style?
I always advise exploring different styles before committing to one. Biomechanical and realistic styles require a high level of artistic skill, including a strong understanding of composition, light, and contrast. It's essential to develop these fundamental skills before attempting these intricate styles. Additionally, studying anatomy, engineering, and various mechanical components can provide valuable inspiration for designing unique tattoos in this style.
8. How do you stay updated and continue evolving as a tattoo artist in such a changing field?
I continually strive to improve by seeking new ideas, updates on equipment, and exploring innovative design techniques. Regularly attending seminars, courses, and tattoo conventions helps me stay abreast of industry trends and connect with like-minded artists. Collaborating with other artists and sharing experiences is invaluable in fostering growth and inspiration in this dynamic field.
9. Outside of your professional life, what are your greatest passions and interests? How do these passions influence your art and daily life?
Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, riding motorcycles, driving fast cars, and participating in airsoft games. These hobbies, which often involve mechanics and demand high levels of concentration, parallel my approach to tattooing. They provide inspiration and a sense of challenge that enriches both my art and daily life.
10. How is your year going so far?
This year began unusually with an accident in January, forcing me to take three months off work. However, this setback allowed me to focus on activities I had previously lacked time for, such as completing online courses and refining my methodology. I also used this time to prepare for regular travels to the USA over the next three years. Despite the initial challenges, I have turned this situation to my advantage.
11. How can people reach out to schedule an appointment with you?
The best way to schedule an appointment is by visiting my studio website and filling out the request form. Our receptionist will handle inquiries and guide clients through the booking process, which includes consultation with me.
12. Who would you like to thank for supporting you in this profession?
I owe a great deal of gratitude to my family for their unwavering support, as well as to Keith Butcher, the owner of The Dragons Den, for believing in my skills and providing valuable advice and friendship. Lastly, I am immensely grateful to my fiancée, Anna, whose support and partnership have been instrumental in my journey as a tattoo artist.
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