Miss Vampira Manhattan, NY

ROMAIN

I am a French tattoo artist born in 1986 in Toulon, France, and I have been tattooing since 2006. I have been traveling all around the world and have lived in Bali for 6 years. I am the owner of Sacred Ornaments tattoo Bali and Andrömak Jewelry ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Take your time, be patient, and please don’t get a tattoo too young. Choose your favorite artist no matter where you have to travel or how much it will cost; wait if you need time to save money to get your dream piece ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My friends and family have been supporting me from the beginning; they were actually my first victims. I’ve been tattooing almost all of them ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I really like to prepare the design; it is the most creative part ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? When I was a kid, I was obsessed with tattoos; then, when I went to college, I was drawing other students’ tattoo designs. I feel like I have always been into it, and I just get more and more into it with time ⸺ Who and what influences you to create your work? I get my inspiration from ancient paintings and carvings from India, Japan, Indonesia, and Nepal mostly. I also get inspired by tattoo artists like 1Gakkin, 2Guy le tattooer, and 3Kalodimas ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Yes, I refuse to tattoo those under 18 years old and also tattoo those who are not in my style. I need to feel comfortable with the design ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Yes, in 16 years, I have had a lot. To be honest, the worst for me was a client with a bad hygiene ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Find the right mentor, and everything will be fine. ✕