By: Maria Williams

Embark on a journey into the vibrant world of Zvee, a talented tattoo artist whose passion for artistry knows no bounds. From humble beginnings with crayons and paper to becoming a world-renowned tattoo artist, Zvee’s artistic journey is a testament to dedication, creativity, and unwavering determination. 

What is your art history?

My artistic journey traces back to my earliest memories, where crayons and paper were my first tools of expression. Over the years, my passion for art evolved and deepened, leading me to explore various mediums and styles. During my academic pursuits in the field of furniture design, I honed my skills in drawing and composition, achieving recognition for my creativity and attention to detail. It was during this time that the idea of tattooing as a form of artistry began to captivate my imagination. In 2018, I embarked on a new chapter in my artistic journey, transitioning from traditional mediums to the dynamic canvas of human skin. Since then, each tattoo I create is not only a reflection of my artistic vision but also a deeply personal expression of the stories and emotions shared by my clients.

Can you tell us about your journey of tattooing?

Since delving into the world of tattooing in 2018, my aspirations have always been set on expanding my craft through overseas guest work. Initially, the prospect seemed daunting, with limited resources and experience to rely on. However, by 2020, armed with growing confidence in my tattooing abilities, I took the leap and embarked on a guest work trip to Europe. That pivotal journey marked the beginning of my international endeavors in tattooing.

Since then, I’ve been privileged to welcome clients not only from Korea but also from various corners of the globe. Each tattoo session has been an opportunity not just to create art but to forge meaningful connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds. These encounters have enriched my artistic journey and broadened my perspective on the universal language of tattooing.

In 2021, fueled by my passion for fostering collaboration and communication within the tattoo community, I founded Colorbomb Studio. It serves as a platform for tattooists to come together, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects that push the boundaries of our craft. Through Colorbomb Studio, I aim to cultivate a vibrant and supportive community where artists can thrive and continue to elevate the art of tattooing.”

What was the reason for becoming a world-class tattoo artist?

When I first delved into the world of tattoos, color and mini tattoos were emerging as vibrant new trends on the global stage. However, the studio where I honed my craft was deeply rooted in blackwork, predominantly using black ink for their designs. While I gained invaluable experience in black tattoos during my early years, my creative spirit yearned for the vivid hues and expressive potential of color.

In 2019, about a year into my tattooing journey, I took the leap into exploring color tattoos. It was a decision driven by my passion for injecting life and vibrancy into my art. As I began sketching my first color tattoo designs and showcasing them as flash, I was overwhelmed by the positive response from clients and fellow artists alike. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of my journey into the realm of color tattooing.

Color tattoos, still considered a relatively new genre in the global tattoo landscape, have become my signature style. I believe it’s this dedication to color and vibrancy that resonates with clients, both locally and internationally. Each tattoo I create is not just a piece of art, but a celebration of color, creativity, and individual expression. I am humbled and honored to be able to share my passion with others through my work.

What was the experience of participating in the New York exhibition?

Participating in the New York exhibition was a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience. It’s not every day that someone from Korea gets the opportunity to showcase their work in such an iconic city. From the moment I received the invitation, I was filled with an overwhelming sense of excitement and gratitude.

As I delved into the preparations for the exhibition – from choosing the theme to creating the artwork and setting up the space – I found myself undergoing a profound professional journey. It was a unique experience that allowed me to explore aspects of my creativity beyond tattooing, leading to a deeper sense of self-realization.

While my artistic ability played a significant role in this endeavor, I believe it was equally influenced by the incredible individuals who have supported and inspired me along the way. I wanted to capture the essence of these meaningful connections in my exhibition, showcasing not just my artwork but also the profound communication I’ve shared with guests from around the world.

Reflecting on my journey from Milan to New York, with stops in Berlin, Paris, London, Bangkok, LA, and Seattle for guest work, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to connect with diverse communities and cultures through my art. Each interaction has left an indelible mark on my artistic journey, and I am honored to have shared a piece of my story with the world in New York City.

Do your other artistic backgrounds and experiences help you when working with clients? 

Absolutely. I believe that tattooing goes beyond mere artistry; it’s about fostering meaningful connections with my clients. Drawing inspiration from diverse artistic backgrounds has equipped me with a unique perspective that enhances my interactions with clients. Through open communication and empathy, I strive to co-create designs that deeply resonate with each individual. 

My varied artistic experiences have taught me the value of synergy – that magical alignment of energies between myself and my clients. It’s in these moments of connection that truly exceptional designs are conceived. In today’s tattoo industry, where artistic approaches span a wide spectrum encompassing illustration, gaming, and fine art, I find that my diverse background enables me to adapt and innovate. Embracing these varied influences allows me to offer clients a truly bespoke and enriching tattoo experience.