In this episode of Chats and Tatts, filmed on location at the Golden State Tattoo Expo, host Aaron Della Vedova dives into a fascinating conversation about the evolving trends in tattooing culture with guest, the world's best-known black and gray tattoo artist, Carlos Torres. Born and raised in Gardena, California, during the 1980s and '90s, Carlos developed an early passion for art, inspired by the superheroes and fantasy illustrations in local comic books. Initially considering a career as an art teacher, he opted to pursue tattooing in his teenage years, a field where he is predominantly self-taught.

A renowned tattoo artist with 27 years of experience, who has revolutionized the tattooing scene, Carlos and Aaron get into what younger tattoo enthusiasts are normalizing what they call "shitty tattooing," indicating a shift in appreciation for traditional techniques. In October 2017, Torres founded The Raven and The Wolves, a combined tattoo studio and fine art gallery located in Downtown Long Beach. This establishment serves as a collaborative space for artists and hosts classes and seminars led by Torres and other professionals

The episode delves into a recent encounter with a celebrity's son who desires an aged-looking tattoo, highlighting a growing trend among younger clients who favor a more "imperfect" aesthetic. Aaron shares insights from a chat room where younger tattoo enthusiasts are normalizing what they call 'shitty tattooing,' indicating a shift in appreciation for traditional techniques.

They also explore the intersections of tattooing with other art forms, such as painting and sculpting, and how these influences enrich the tattoo process. Tune in for insights on creativity, industry trends, and the future of tattooing.

Chat Breakdown:

00:00:00 - The Trend of Aged Tattoos

00:04:14 - The Leap of Faith in Tattooing

00:04:49 - Carlos Torres' Early Influences

00:08:09 - Struggles of Getting an Apprenticeship

00:10:16 - Avoiding Gang Life

00:11:15 - Evolution of Chicano Tattooing

00:13:55 - Large Format Tattooing Challenges

00:19:56 - Issues with Colored Inks

00:22:23 - Opening The Raven and the Wolves

00:23:45 - Censorship and Freedom of Speech

00:30:21 - The Evolution of Tattoo Art

00:33:20 - Normalizing Shitty Tattooing

00:34:29 - The Future of Tattooing

00:37:03 - Importance of Learning Cover-Ups

00:38:18 - Laser Removal and Cover-Ups

00:39:08 - AI and Tattoo Art

Quotes:

"They want to normalize shitty tattooing."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Carlos:

IG: @carlostorresart