Interview
Yugyeong Ham
Born on August 13, 1993, Yugyeong embarked on her artistic journey at the tender age of five, initially exploring the realms of drawing and painting. With a natural inclination toward creative expression, she pursued studies in fashion design, a field that initially promised an outlet for her artistic passions. However, seeking a more direct and impactful way to express her artistry, Yugyeong transitioned from fashion to the world of tattooing in 2013. She specializes in colorful fine-line realism, a style that allows her to blend intricate detail with vibrant hues, creating stunning, lifelike images on skin. Her work is characterized by its precision and the ability to evoke depth and emotion, transforming each piece into a personal and meaningful narrative. This specialization not only highlights her technical skill but also underscores her commitment to bringing clients' visions to life with beauty and accuracy. Today, Yugyeong is recognized for her unique artistry and dedication to refining my craft, continually pushing the boundaries of tattoo art to new and exciting realms.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“From a very young age, art has been my closest companion and a profound way of expressing myself. I began exploring the world of art when I was only five years old, initially drawn to the vibrant universes of anime. This early passion for bold and animated styles ignited a creative spark that evolved as I grew older. By the age of fifteen, my focus shifted towards colorful realism, a style that deeply resonated with me, blending intricate detail with vivid colors. In 2013, at the age of twenty, I made a pivotal decision to leave fashion university, a path that seemed predefined yet misaligned with my artistic instincts. This bold move marked the beginning of my professional journey into the tattoo industry. The transition to tattoo art felt like a natural progression, allowing me to combine my love for intricate artwork with personal stories that each tattoo represents. It’s more than just art; it’s about etching memories and emotions into skin, making each piece a unique narrative. Today, as a renowned tattoo artist in South Korea, I continuously strive to blend my early influences with my evolving techniques, creating bespoke pieces that are not only visually striking but deeply personal. My journey from anime sketches to complex, colorful tattoos reflects both growth and an ongoing homage to my artistic roots.”
What inspires you?
“Inspiration for me comes from a tapestry of experiences and observations, each thread woven from the vibrant and diverse cultures I encounter. I am particularly drawn to the natural world, where the boundless expressions of life remind me of the infinite possibilities in art. The way light plays on surfaces, the subtle gradients of the sky at dusk, and the intricate patterns in a single leaf - all fuel my imagination. Furthermore, the stories and experiences of the people I meet provide a rich source of inspiration. Each client brings their own narrative, their emotions, and dreams, which I have the privilege to translate into art. This deeply personal exchange not only inspires but also challenges me to push the boundaries of my creative expression. Lastly, history and heritage play significant roles. The timeless art from past civilizations, the old masters of painting, and the ever-evolving trends across decades of fashion and design prompt me to both honor and reinterpret these influences in my work, ensuring that each piece is a confluence of past and present, uniquely tailored to resonate in the here and now.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My artistic journey is an exploration of Dreamy Colorful Realism, where the boundaries between the real and the imagined blur, creating a surreal, enchanting world. Each piece I create is a fusion of reality with a touch of the fantastical, often drawing from surrealism, botanical art, and the whimsical elements of dreamy anime artwork. This combination allows me to create tattoos that are not just visually striking but also evoke a sense of wonder and introspection. The underlying message of my work is about capturing the ethereal, almost ephemeral moments of dreams and nature, and anchoring them in reality through ink. In surrealism, I find the freedom to distort reality to evoke emotions, while botanical elements bring a grounding, life-affirming connection to nature. My dreamy anime-inspired pieces pay homage to my initial artistic inspirations, filled with emotion and vivid storytelling. Ultimately, my theme is about transcending the ordinary, turning everyday narratives into visual spectacles that invite viewers to pause, reflect, and dream. Each tattoo is a personal reflection, a piece of art that stands at the intersection of dream and reality, crafted to inspire and provoke.”
How would you describe your work?
“My work is an intricate tapestry of feminine realism, each piece crafted with a delicate touch and a deep sensitivity to the nuances of emotion and expression. It is dreamy, evoking a sense of gentle wonder and profound introspection, pulling viewers into a world where reality softens and the boundaries of imagination expand. The neatness of each line and color placement speaks to a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element harmonizes perfectly within each composition. The use of color is particularly significant; it's not just vibrant - it's vital, breathing life into each design with hues that both soothe and energize. This colorful vitality ensures that each piece isn't just seen; it's felt. Through these elements, my work embodies a dream-like quality that invites viewers to explore their own depths, encouraging a personal journey through the layers of their emotions and dreams.”
Which artists influence you most?
“My artistic vision is profoundly shaped by a diverse array of legendary figures, each contributing uniquely to my aesthetic and philosophy. René Magritte, with his surrealist sensibilities, teaches me the art of challenging reality, encouraging a dialogue between the visible and the invisible in my own work. His clever subversions and whimsical depictions inspire me to infuse a sense of mystery and intrigue in my tattoos. Salvador Dali’s influence is evident in my embrace of the bizarre and the fantastical. His masterful manipulation of dream-like imagery pushes me to explore the depths of my imagination, allowing the subconscious to spill over into my designs, creating scenes that captivate and mystify. Jean-Michel Basquiat’s raw, vibrant energy and his use of symbolism resonate deeply with me. His fearless expression and the immediacy of his work encourage me to incorporate personal and societal narratives into my art, creating pieces that speak not only to beauty but to deeper truths. Lastly, Bob Ross’s influence on my approach to art is one of joy and accessibility. His serene landscapes and the therapeutic process of painting remind me that art is not only about the final piece but also about the healing journey of creation. His teachings instill in me the importance of kindness and positivity, which I strive to embed in every stroke of ink. Together, these artists inspire not just the techniques I employ but also imbue my work with a philosophy that art should be both a reflection and a revelation, a means of seeing the world not only as it is but as it could be.”
“My artistic journey is an exploration of Dreamy Colorful Realism, where the boundaries between the real and the imagined blur, creating a surreal, enchanting world.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process is both a journey and a ritual, rooted deeply in the intimate connection between artist and canvas. Each design begins with a conversation, where I immerse myself in the stories, dreams, and desires of my clients. This initial exchange is crucial as it allows me to understand not just what they want from their tattoo, but why—each piece is deeply personal and reflective of their journey and identity. From there, I retreat into a contemplative space where I blend their narratives with my artistic vision. I sketch tirelessly, allowing ideas to flow freely, often using watercolors to experiment with soft transitions and vibrant hues that mimic the dreamy quality of my style. This stage is fluid and evolving, as I refine and reshape concepts until they feel right. The design then undergoes a meticulous digital refinement, where I adjust every line and shade to ensure precision and harmony. This digital space allows me to experiment with scale and placement, ensuring the design not only looks exquisite but also complements the contours and movement of the body. Finally, the actual tattooing process is where my technical skills and artistic flair converge. It’s a meditative practice, one where I am deeply focused and yet profoundly connected to the person whose skin I am transforming. It's about bringing the imagined into reality, where each needle stroke is deliberate and filled with purpose, guided by the trust my clients place in me and the passion I have for my art. Throughout, my process is one of deep respect - respect for the art form, for the personal stories of my clients, and for the trust they show in allowing me to mark their bodies permanently. Each tattoo is not just an artwork; it's a shared creation that tells a story.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist’s role in society is multifaceted and profound, serving not only as a mirror to reflect cultural and social issues but also as a beacon that can guide, inspire, and transform. At its core, art is about connection - connecting ideas with emotions, the individual with the collective, and the mundane with the sublime. In this way, artists have the unique capability to bridge divides and open dialogues in compassionate and compelling ways. I see my role as an artist, especially in the realm of tattooing, as one of spreading love and positivity. Each tattoo is an intimate exchange, a permanent reminder of moments, people, and beliefs that are significant. By embedding these cherished symbols onto skin, I help individuals express their identity and stories in ways that are visible and proud. This not only personalizes their experience but also shares their narrative with a broader audience, fostering understanding and acceptance. Looking ahead, I believe the role of artists will evolve to become even more integral to societal healing and unity. As the world grapples with numerous challenges, the need for empathy, beauty, and truth - values that artists excel in conveying - becomes more crucial. Artists can create spaces of safety and reflection, offering solace and also challenging societal norms to promote progress. Through our work, whether it's through visual arts, music, literature, or any other form, we have the power to make the world a more thoughtful, compassionate, and connected place. In essence, my vision as an artist is to contribute to this movement of positive change, using my craft not only to beautify but to communicate messages of love and unity. Through each piece of art, I strive to leave a mark that goes beyond the surface, touching hearts and inspiring minds toward a more harmonious society.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My favorite noteworthy exhibition was at the Getty Museum, a place that marries breathtaking architecture with a panoramic view of Los Angeles, providing a perfect backdrop for experiencing art. The museum’s vast and diverse collections - from ancient antiquities to modern sculptures - offered an immersive journey through time, enlightening and inspiring me with every piece. Particularly, the meticulous curation of their exhibitions always impresses me; each display is thoughtfully assembled to both educate and engage visitors, making art accessible to all. The Getty’s commitment to conservation, exemplified in their detailed preservation efforts, also deeply resonates with me, as it reflects my own values of care and precision in tattoo artistry. This exhibition not only highlighted the timeless beauty of art but also its power to connect us across histories and cultures.”
