KATHMANDU: Giving a realistic touch to Nepali art and tradition, they love to ink beautiful designs on skin. They are some of the promising names of Nepali tattoo art scene. Three of these artists share with The Himalayan Times about their works, influences and plans for upcoming 6th International Nepal Tattoo Convention.

Your speciality

I do realistic tattoos — be it the portrait of animals, flowers or people. I feel the realistic works are lively, real and are fun to watch.

Inspiration

When I see tattoos on papers, I feel like inking them on skin. The tattoos of my friends too inspire me to do the tattoos. The works done by tattoo artist Mohan Gurung is an inspiration to me.

Tattooing for you

It is a form of art that is beautiful to create and to look at. But you need to make a strong decision while inking, as it remains on your skin forever.

Why Int’l Nepal Tattoo Convention

The tattoo convention is similar to Dashain festival for us. Many artists come here in the convention. It is time to share your work and also learn about other’s work.

— Shree Kisi, Tattoo Artist, Mohan’s Tattoo Inn, Thamel

Your speciality

I have been specialising in realistic and traditional styles for a few years now. But being a professional tattooist, I respect my client’s freedom to choose his/her own style, so sometimes I get out of my comfort zone.

Inspiration

I have been inspired by many artists — tattooists and non-tattooists — across the world. Recently I have been more inspired by Nepali artists like Mohan Gurung, Bimal Rai, John Maharjan and others.

Tattooing for you

I never took tattooing as a profession. It all started as a break from my monotonous daily routine. Now, it’s like a meditation for me. It’s redemption. It’s a fun piece of puzzle to solve every day.

Why Int’l Nepal Tattoo Convention

This convention has always been my favourite. We get to meet really good artists from all around the world. So every time I take part in this convention, I get more inspired.

—   Binaya Gurung, Ink’s Inc Tattoo, Thamel

Your speciality

I do oriental and realistic pieces and sometimes make dotted pattern as well. I specialise in Nepali traditional art tattoo and portrait tattoo. I will be doing full back tattoo of Newari traditional Bhairab in the convention.

Inspiration

My best friend Ravi Maharjan, who is currently working as a tattoo artist at Electric texta, Sydney, Australia, is my inspiration.

Tattooing for you

Tattooing is both a passion and profession. Over the last 12 years, I have been putting my passion into my work. I enjoy tattooing in multiple styles.

Why Int’l Nepal Tattoo Convention

It is a great moment to do tattoo together with different people from different countries. And I also like to gain more knowledge, with like-minded people. It is also an opportunity to expand my portfolio with different fresh, new ideas.

— Raju Bajracharya, Yala Ink Tattoo, Patan