Nikko Hurtado - Bringing LIFE To Tattoos, Inspiration From Outside Fireside Tattoo Network

Bringing LIFE To Tattoos, Inspiration From Outside

[20:28] “It’s an ongoing road, and I really enjoy learning. I don’t feel like I know anything really. I look at painters and museums and that’s where I find most of my inspiration.”

—Nikko Hurtado

Many tattooers have delved into the world of fine art, experimenting with painting, illustration, and even sculpting. People often say that these creative hobbies outside of tattooing inspire them and provide fresh perspectives for their tattoo designs.

Engaging in painting or drawing from life is an incredible way to grasp the shapes and forms in space. It offers valuable insights that shape creative decisions by studying how objects truly look. By closely observing and studying real-life objects, artists gain insights that inform their creative decisions. This practice allows them to develop a deeper appreciation for how objects truly appear, translating into a heightened ability to bring believability and authenticity to their tattoo designs.

By branching out and exploring different art forms, dedicating time to study other artists' techniques and styles allows tattoo artists to expand their repertoire and refine their own unique artistic language. It opens doors to discovering fresh approaches, incorporating innovative elements, and pushing the boundaries and infusing their own unique style. Embracing these artistic explorations fuels growth and unearths hidden potential.

Watch the full episode:

Pioneering Color Realism | Nikko Hurtado | EP 259