In this episode of Chats and Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova interviews Robert Morton, AKA Boney The Tattooer, a talented Cleveland-based tattoo artist known for his outstanding photorealistic work. They discuss how the artist's background in construction helped him secure an apprenticeship in the tattoo industry. They delve into the concept of apprenticeships and how they can mutually benefit the teacher and the apprentice. The artist's unique twist on photorealism, adding a surrealistic touch, is also explored. Please tune in to learn more about the artist's journey and his distinct artistic voice.

Chat breakdown:

[00:00:06] Using construction to enter tattooing.

[00:04:07] Comic books and art journey.

[00:08:50] Art as a form of meditation.

[00:09:18] Childhood hobbies and creativity.

[00:12:43] Hardworking plumber turned boxer.

[00:15:14] The boxing industry being rigged.

[00:18:15] Sales and door-to-door experiences.

[00:23:35] A cancellation as an opportunity.

[00:25:31] Tattooing as an emerging art form.

[00:27:44] Comic book art styles.

[00:31:07] Traditional apprenticeship dynamics.

[00:34:05] The Renaissance period in tattooing.

[00:38:40] Tattooing as a brotherhood.

[00:42:00] Guiding principles in decision-making.

[00:44:28] Providing value in tattoo art.

[00:46:54] Tattooing for confidence.

[00:51:36] Criticism of color realism.

[00:54:22] Dealing with darker skin tones.

[00:56:13] Skin tones and contrast.

[01:00:20] Large format tattoo limitations.

[01:03:42] Under anesthesia for tattoos.

[01:06:42] Pain is good.

[01:09:29] The tattoo high.

[01:12:05] Podcast platforms and social media.

Quotes:

"I'm 52, looking back on life, and it's funny how one little character can show up in a person's life and change their entire direction."

"But all these little punches and beat ups we take in life, they're all just shaping you and giving you new tools, you know?"

"Like I like to really saturate that shit in there. It takes a little bit longer, but it overall, like the finished product, it's just so tight and it can look so clean."

"Pain is part of life. Pain is perspective. Pain is the contrast between what gives us joy and what doesn't, but you're not gonna feel high levels of joy without having gone through some shit, you know?"

Stay connected:

Connect with Boney:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/boneythetattooer/

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.com⁠

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

Aaron IG:⁠ http://www.instagram.com/aarondellavedova⁠

Guru Tattoo: http://www.Gurutattoo.com