Q&A with Otaku Tattoo expo attending artist

Jason Thomas; anime artist located in austin, tx

moon Tattoo Studio

We are gearing up for the Otaku Tattoo Expo at the Mesquite Convention Center, November 1st-3rd!

Otaku Tattoo Expo is an 18+ Ecchi and adult themed anime convention. Come enjoy an adult only weekend and see attractions like:

The Best Anime Tattoo Artist

Ecchi Vendors

Cosplayers

Panels

After Hours Activities

Pin Up Contest

Tattoo Contest

For only $20! Get your tickets today!

1. What inspired you to become an anime tattoo artist and how did you get started in this unique niche within the tattoo industry?

I've always enjoyed watching a lot of anime, and I started tattooing friends of mine who were into it. I liked the style, but I never took it on as a serious pursuit until I moved to Texas. I'm glad I did, because it's been the biggest change in my art style, and it's made me a better artist.

2. Can you share some of your favorite anime or manga series that have influenced your tattoo designs?

I can't pick just one favorite anime or manga series that has influenced my tattoo designs. Some of the classics are always a good source of inspiration, like Evangelion or Hellsing. But I also like some of the newer anime, like Death Parade, Takt OP, and Summer Time Rendering. What I like most is when there's a good twist that I don't see coming.

3. How do you approach translating anime characters or scenes into tattoo designs while maintaining the integrity of the original artwork?

I've been tattooing for a while now, and I still find myself improving on making the design fit the original character as best I can. The hard part of the job is making the character shine, and I think that comes from your own style. Composition is key to a great piece!

4. What are some challenges specific to creating anime tattoos?

There are thousands of animes out there, and every artist draws the characters differently. Some use bold outlines, while others use tapered lines. I try to match the original art style as closely as possible, which helps make the tattoo look like the character the client wanted.

5. Who are some of your favorite “non tattoo, non anime artists?

jeanpaulmaratt / green.vesper / kasasink

I really admire the work of jeanpaulmaratt, green.vesper, and kasasink. They each have their own unique tattooing style, but there's something about their work that makes me want to improve my skills so that I can tattoo as well as they do.

6. What are the last three songs you listened to?
Sleep Token - The offering

Electric Callboy - We got the moves

Stray kids - Chk Chk Boom

My music taste is all over the place haha

7. What are some of the most popular anime tattoos that clients request and do you have a personal favorite design that you have created/ want to create?

I have to say that my favorite anime tattoo requests are for characters from Dragon Ball Z, Pokemon, Berserk, Naruto, and Studio Ghibli. One of my personal favorites has to be the top three that I have pinned on Instagram. But we always try to improve and create new favorites.

8. How do you stay current with trends in the anime and tattoo industries to continue evolving your craft?

I'm not very tech savvy, so I'm lucky my camera works. I stay current by talking with other artists about their work and techniques. I read a lot of art books to help with color theory, but the constant drawing and creating is the true way to achieve a better art style.

9. What advice would you give to someone considering getting a tattoo for the first time?

When getting a tattoo for the first time, it's important to find an artist whose style you like and who has a portfolio that includes work similar to what you want. Do your research, and be patient, because it can be hard to get an appointment with a artist. Trust the process, and remember that every artist is different.

10. How can someone book you for the otaku fest in November?
You can always Dm me on instagram but the fastest way is through my website Jthomasinks.com .

Drop a request form there, I layed out all the questions I need to get you in !