Interview
Ningjia Zhai
Ningjia was raised in Beijing, China, born in 1997. She came to America alone at the age of 14. She graduated from the School of Visual Arts with a BFA degree in illustration in 2020. After that, she studied branding and digital marketing at NYU graduate school. In 2017, she apprenticed under a tattoo artist in Beijing. She loves how tattooing is a poetic art form that celebrates perpetuity. Ningjia also loves the special bond she has formed with her clients. She gradually developed her artistic expression through the last few years of practice and development. Asian art and culture are one of her biggest influences and what she is passionate about. It is her goal to celebrate oriental culture through her works. She incorporated fineline brushwork and black ink into her designs. She loved the infinite possibility that water and inkstone can create in Asian art. Her family originated from the Yangtze River in China; this cultural bond runs in her blood. Influenced significantly by the works of Katsushika Hokusai and Zheng Banqiao, she draws inspiration from the free-spirited depictions of nature and animals prevalent in ancient Asian art—a recurring theme in her own work.
As a tattoo artist, she perceives herself as a fairy adorning the human body with elements of nature. Her creations consistently adhere to the decisions of enveloping and harmonizing with the unique contours of each client's physique. The lines in the works she designs embody a distinctive feature of Asian culture: modulation. The choice of varying line weights infuses her creations with a sense of breath and spirituality. What she aims to convey through her art is the natural beauty and organic essence that resonates within it.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I was born in 1997 in Beijing, a city rich in history and culture. Growing up there, I was immersed in a world where tradition and modernity coexisted. This unique environment shaped my artistic sensibilities from a young age. At 14, I made a life-changing decision to move to America alone, seeking to broaden my horizons and dive deeper into the art world. The transition was both challenging and exhilarating. I found myself navigating a new culture, language, and educational system. This journey of adaptation influenced my art significantly, as it allowed me to blend Eastern and Western perspectives. My time at the School of Visual Arts and NYU’s graduate program in branding and digital marketing was pivotal in shaping my approach to art, blending traditional techniques with modern concepts.”
What inspires you?
“My art is a homage to my roots. The Yangtze River, where my family originates, and the rich tapestry of Chinese culture are constant sources of inspiration. I incorporate elements of fineline brushwork and black ink, techniques deeply rooted in Asian art. These elements are not just aesthetic choices; they are symbolic of my heritage and the fluidity of nature and life.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“To me, tattooing is more than just a form of body art; it’s a medium through which I connect with people on a deeply personal level. I approach each project as a collaboration, where I merge my artistic vision with the client’s story. My goal is to create something that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also meaningful and reflective of the individual’s identity.”
“My passion lies in celebrating oriental culture through my works, incorporating fineline brushwork and black ink inspired by the infinite possibilities found in water and ink stone art.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is not just about tattoos; it's about coalescing art and anatomy to create a symphony of visual splendor that resonates with the personal narratives of each client. My Plants Line Wrap Illustrations are meticulously crafted on 3D models, showcasing the pinnacle of tattoo design. Every decision in the creative process is a deliberate step towards harmonizing with the unique contours of the individual, embodying my commitment to precision and personalization.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Their work represents a freedom of expression and a profound connection with nature, which I strive to emulate in my art. The way they capture the essence of the natural world and the fluidity of life resonates with my own artistic goals. Their influence is evident in the way I depict nature and animals, often as metaphors for larger themes and emotions.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process is quite introspective and begins with understanding the client’s vision and the story they want to tell. Whether it’s a flash design or a custom piece, I immerse myself in the concept and explore various themes and ideas. The actual design process involves sketching, digital rendering, and often experimenting with 3D models to ensure that the tattoo flows naturally with the body’s contours.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“Art, in my view, is a reflection of society and an instrument of change. Today, artists have the unique opportunity to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding through their work. With the advent of digital technology and social media, the reach and impact of art have expanded tremendously. As an artist, I see myself as a participant in this cultural dialogue, using my work to tell stories that resonate across different communities and generations.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Yes, I’ve had the honor of being invited to some prestigious events which have been significant milestones in my career. One of them was the Golden State Tattoo Convention organized by INKED. It was an incredible experience, as INKED has played a crucial role in bringing tattoo culture into the mainstream. Being a part of this event was not just about showcasing my work; it was also about contributing to the acceptance and respect of tattoo art as a legitimate form of art. Another important event I participated in was the New York Tattoo EXPO. These conventions are not just platforms for artists to display their work; they are also gatherings where artists, enthusiasts, and professionals from around the world come together to share, learn, and celebrate the art of tattooing. Participating in these events has been both humbling and inspiring, allowing me to connect with the wider tattoo community and share my passion for blending traditional Asian artistry with modern tattoo techniques. I’m currently exploring the intersection of digital art with traditional tattooing techniques. The idea is to create a new form of expression that combines the best of both worlds. I’m also looking forward to participating in more international exhibitions and conventions, as these platforms allow me to share my work with a global audience and engage with other artists and cultures.”
Website: www.beanbeantattoo.com
Instagram: @beanbeantattoo.nyc
