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Yeseul Kim, known professionally as Yerae, is a talented tattoo artist from Korea currently based in Toronto, Canada. Specializing in colorful botanical and floral designs, Yerae's work is celebrated for its vibrant use of color and intricate detail. In addition to her signature floral pieces, she has gained recognition for her skill in coverup tattoos, transforming old or unwanted designs into stunning new works of art. With a deep passion for nature and a strong artistic vision, Yerae continues to inspire both clients and fellow artists in the tattoo community.
As a tattoo artist originally from Korea, now working in Toronto, how has your cultural background influenced your work, particularly your specialization in floral and botanical tattoos?
Growing up in Jeju Island, South Korea, until I was 12, and then moving to India for my studies has had a profound impact on my work as a tattoo artist. Jeju is known for its stunning natural landscapes, surrounded by the sea and mountains, which has inspired me to capture the inherent beauty and tranquility of nature in my art. The local flora and fauna of Jeju, especially its flowers, play a significant role in shaping my floral and botanical tattoo style.
After moving to India, I was immersed in a vibrant culture filled with colorful patterns and rich traditions. This exposure introduced a new dimension to my work, allowing me to incorporate the lively colors and diverse botanical interpretations found in Indian art. The blending of these two cultures enriches my designs, creating unique pieces that reflect both my heritage and the individuality of each client.
Ultimately, the harmony between Jeju’s natural beauty and India’s vibrant culture shapes my artistic expression. This fusion not only influences my work but also deepens my connection with clients, allowing their stories to come to life through the tattoos I create.
Your work focuses on colorful floral tattoos and coverups. Can you walk us through your creative process, from the initial design concept to the final execution on your clients?
My creative process for colorful floral tattoos and coverups begins with an in-depth conversation with my clients. I first ask if they have a specific style in mind, often inspired by my previous work or pieces from other artists. This helps me understand their aesthetic preferences.
Next, I inquire about any particular objects or elements they would like to incorporate into the design. Understanding these personal touches is essential for creating a meaningful piece. I also discuss color schemes to determine if they have specific colors they want or if they’re open to suggestions.
Once the client has made a reservation, I create a preliminary design based on our discussions and share it with them. We then meet to review the design, and I make adjustments based on their feedback, focusing on the important details. This collaborative approach ensures that we’re on the same page before moving forward.
Before we begin the tattooing process, I confirm the colors and details one last time, ensuring that everything aligns with their vision. On the day of the tattoo, I create a comfortable and welcoming environment, guiding my clients through the session while prioritizing their comfort and satisfaction.
Ultimately, my goal is to create a stunning piece that not only looks beautiful but also carries personal significance for each client, transforming their vision into a unique work of art.
Coverup tattoos can be particularly challenging due to the existing design underneath. How do you approach coverups, and what makes them a rewarding part of your work?
Coverup tattoos can indeed be challenging, but they are also one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. I start by carefully assessing the existing design to understand its colors, size, and placement, which helps me determine the best approach for an effective coverup.
I make sure to inform my clients that coverup tattoos often need to be significantly darker than the original tattoo. This is essential, as darker colors typically yield better results and help conceal the underlying design more effectively. Additionally, I explain that most coverups may require touch-ups down the line, as the underlying tattoo can sometimes show through after healing.
During our consultation, I also discuss the limitations that come with coverups. The design options and color palette may be more restricted compared to a standard tattoo, given the need to effectively mask the old ink. This transparency ensures that my clients have realistic expectations and understand the creative constraints involved.
I encourage clients to share their ideas and visions for the new piece, which allows me to incorporate their preferences while navigating the challenges of the coverup. The transformation from a previous tattoo, which may have caused regret, into something beautiful and meaningful is incredibly fulfilling.
Ultimately, being able to help clients reclaim their skin and create a new narrative through coverup tattoos makes this aspect of my work particularly rewarding.
Over time, how has your tattoo style evolved, especially when it comes to working with color? Are there any new techniques or trends in the tattoo world that you’re excited to explore?
Initially, I focused exclusively on black fineline tattoos, but I soon found myself wanting to incorporate more color, especially in my floral designs. As I began experimenting with color, I discovered how it could enhance the beauty and vibrancy of my work. Working on coverups also encouraged me to use deeper and more intense colors to effectively mask the underlying designs.
Now, I’m excited to explore not only colorful floral tattoos but also black designs and mythical creatures. I’ve been sketching ideas for these elements, seeking to blend intricate details with bold colors. This evolution in my style reflects my desire to push creative boundaries and connect with a wider range of themes in my work.
As trends in the tattoo world continue to shift, I’m eager to experiment with new techniques and styles, continually seeking to grow and innovate in my artistic expression.
Tattooing is a highly collaborative process between artist and client. How do you work with clients to ensure that their vision and your artistic style align, especially for more personal or meaningful pieces?
Tattooing is indeed a highly collaborative process, and I strive to align my artistic vision with my clients' expectations, especially for personal or meaningful pieces. However, I recognize that some clients may not feel comfortable sharing their personal stories or emotions. I always prioritize their boundaries and never press for details if they’re not ready to share.
That said, when clients do open up about meaningful aspects of their lives—whether it’s joyful memories, feelings of sadness, or connections to loved ones like family, friends, or pets—it greatly aids me in the design process. For example, I once worked with a client who wanted a tattoo to honor her father. As we talked, she shared personal stories which helped me create a design that truly resonated with her.
I remember that session vividly; we ended up sharing a lot of emotions, and at one point, we even found ourselves in tears together while tattooing. This experience underscored how important it is for me to feel connected with my clients. Creating that sense of trust and understanding not only enhances the creative process but also transforms the tattooing experience into something deeply personal and meaningful for both of us.
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yerae_tt/
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