KING OF
By INGE LIEBENBERG
Together with a fewskeletons, we all keep a bucket list stashed away in our closets.
Getting inked is definitely in the top five for most people.
If you decide to get pricked, Kustom Ink may just be the place for you. Not only will you be able to take in some awesome tattoos, you will have the opportunity to check out some rad gear and cool accessories in the shop.
alt.SA caught up with Fadi Aoun, one of the best in the business to give us a bit more insight to the man behind the needles.
How long have you been tattooing?
More than 12 years.
How would you describe your style?
I enjoy doing all styles, ranging from black and grey, colour, old school, oriental and biomech to photorealistic.
What should a client expect from you and what do you expect from them make a successful tattoo?
The client should expect me to do the tattoo to the best of my ability, to be focused on the task at hand and to of course be very hygienic.
We expect the client to understand the advice we give to get the best results when it comes to their tattoo and to trust that they will get exactly what they want.
What do you think of the world of tattooing today?
It has changed a lot. They have introduced new styles, new technology and new ink which makes for better artwork.
People are more open-minded toward tattoos. Every one in three people has tattoos.
It is spreading faster than Aids!
Do you think it will ever be accepted as true art?
Yes. Back in the day tattoos were only for prisoners and sailors.
People who had tattoos were seen as delinquents and were judged by society as bad persons, but now tattoos are being recognised as living art, which is infinite.
Would you recommend this profession? If so, who are the most likely candidates?
I wouldn’t recommend it to just anybody.
You have to be artistic in order to be a successful tattoo artist.
People who think that it is as simple as drawing on someone’s skin needs to go and rethink their perception.
Tattooing requires a great deal of precision and concentration, not to mention patience.
Anybody who wants to be a good tattoo artist needs to work hard.
Even though you may be a great artist on paper, it is a whole different story when it comes to skin.
What steps should people follow if they want to become tattoo artists?
As I said earlier, the person should be artistic and creative and then comes the part where you have to research who is a good tattoo artist and visit the shop and see if you can get an apprenticeship.
The only way to successful tattooing is through a proper apprenticeship in a proper and respectable shop.
If you are lucky enough to get it, grab it and listen to the advice that the artist gives you.
It’s part of life – if you want to be the best you are going to have to start at the bottom.
What would your answer be if people asked you what you’ll do when you’re old and covered in tats?
I would say I’d look a lot more colourful than the average Joe next to me.
I will also be the coolest granddad on the block. You know what I’m saying . . .
Where can we find you?
Kustom Ink is situated at Brightwater Commons in Randburg.
Pop by and check us out!
INK!
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