As a western tattooer with a passion for the classics...
In doing the Japanese style Clark's goal is for his clients to have expert and educated tattooing. With 30+ years of knowledge and study I still don't pretend to be a Japanese Hori (master carver) no matter how many years of tattooing and study that i have or will have. To think of myself as a true Japanese master would be arrogant & ignorant of me. The meanings, aesthetics and imagery that i love are the heart of another peoples true past. I am here for clients that perhaps can not travel to Japan yet have the same passion as I... a passion for Japanese Edo period tattoo & art. I do my best and I will continue to do my best, but I was not raised in Japan, I know my tattooing style is a fusion of my own and Edo art. I have had a life long enjoyment of the 1800's Japanese tattoo and art". Once in a while it can surprise a client how much there is to know, Clark wants to do his best -but "it takes two to do great work", this web site is helpful whether you are simply curious or really thinking about getting tattooed in this style.
• Shared Pride (from Japanese style page):
It can be surprising - the dedication, pain, cost and patience that it takes to get this style of tattoo. In my experience the people that wear horimono are usually hard working quiet types people that don't look like they would have any tattoos at all, it may surprise you that the dean at your college, surgeon or family doctor or even a judge at the courthouse may be a true collectors of this style tattoo. Horimono collectors tend to have a depth in doing things that others don't. With a quiet, content self-pride as well as strong self discipline, I greatly admire my clients for just that as this style takes a lot of time, self control, time management and dedication..
• Clark is here for you once you have already decided on this, not to teach you or help you decide. wearing full sized Edo era style tattooing is a very personal choice.
