Interview
Haiwei Tai
Haiwei’s interest in tattooing began while working at a breakfast shop, where she met an American owner with bold traditional tattoos. That first impression sparked her curiosity and slowly led her to mostly work in bold, colorful American traditional style, combining clean lines with playful, intuitive details. Haiwei also enjoys drawing flash by hand and creating digital illustrations. Her work is rooted in instinct, emotion, and the rhythm of drawing—whether it’s on skin, paper, or screen.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey into the art world wasn’t a straight line. I actually studied CNC machining in university, which has nothing to do with drawing or tattooing. But outside of class, I always liked to sketch random things just for fun—it was something that came naturally to me. After graduation, I worked at a breakfast shop in China, and the owner was an American with a few bold, traditional-style tattoos. That really caught my eye, since tattoos like that weren’t common in China. It planted a seed in me. I started getting more interested in tattoo art and eventually found my own way into the world of tattooing and digital illustration. Looking back, even the small, random sketches I used to do helped lay the foundation for the work I do now.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“I don’t include political topics in my tattoo or art work. Everyone has different beliefs, and I respect that. For me, my focus is more on continuing the tradition of classic tattooing—while also bringing in fresh elements to give old designs new life. I love exploring how traditional styles can evolve and still feel timeless.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“Both structure and spontaneity play vital roles in my process. I often begin with an emotional charge or metaphor — sometimes even a word or sensory image that resonates in my body. From there, I may sketch loosely, test materials, or collect objects that echo the theme. But the real magic begins during the making, which is intuitive and process-driven. I allow the artwork to evolve — to surprise me, resist me, and speak back. There’s a dialogue between me and the piece, and often, the final outcome is far from what I first imagined. That said, for my Art in Modules and partly my photography I also do conceptual planning, including research, and experimenting with materials.”
“Both structure and spontaneity play vital roles in my process. I often begin with an emotional charge or metaphor — sometimes even a word or sensory image that resonates in my body.”
Are there any art world trends you are following?
“I try not to follow trends too closely, but I do keep an eye on what’s happening in the art and tattoo world. I enjoy seeing how younger artists reinterpret traditional styles, or how digital tools are being used in fresh, creative ways. Lately, I’ve started getting interested in ceramics—it’s very different from working on skin, but that contrast is exactly what draws me in. I think it might be the next medium I explore. Still, I prefer to move at my own pace—if something truly inspires me, I’ll follow it, but I’m not chasing trends just to stay current.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“For tattooing, I mostly use coil or rotary machines, depending on the style and detail. I work mainly with color—bold, vibrant palettes that give each piece a strong visual impact. I’m especially drawn to clean lines and traditional-inspired compositions. Outside of tattooing, I often draw tattoo flash by hand on paper. It helps me stay connected to the roots of tattoo culture and also gives me space to play with ideas freely. I also use my iPad and Procreate for digital illustrations—it’s a fast and intuitive way to explore layout, color, and texture. Whether it’s on skin, paper, or screen, it all starts with drawing and a sense of rhythm.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is a way for me to slow down and connect with myself. It’s how I process emotions, thoughts, and moments that are hard to put into words. Whether it’s a tattoo or a sketch, it’s about creating something honest—something that holds feeling, even in small details. I don’t always try to explain it too much. If it feels true, that’s enough for me.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“One of my favorite projects wasn’t just about the artwork itself, but the whole process and connection behind it. When I was working in Shanghai, I met a client who became a close friend. He came to me almost every two weeks for a new tattoo, and over time, we completed both of his sleeves, then his chest, and eventually his back. Most of the work was done in bold, colorful American traditional style, which I really love. He always gave me full trust and freedom to create, which meant a lot to me. Each session felt like a collaboration, and we were both proud of how the work turned out. It’s one of those experiences that reminds me how meaningful tattooing can be—not just as art, but as a shared journey.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I did take part in a small group show with some friends and coworkers at Noah’s store. We showed tattoo-related paintings and collages—it was a fun and inspiring experience. It felt good to see our work in a different context, off the skin and on the wall. I’ve also shared a lot of my work through guest spots in cities like Shanghai, New York, and Los Angeles, as well as online. For now, I’m focused on creating and exploring new mediums, but I’d love to do more exhibitions in the future.”
Instagram: @50tattooing
