MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Tattooing has come a long way from being a taboo practice to a widely accepted art form. Charles Arteta, a prominent tattoo artist, has been at the forefront of this transformation, challenging conventions and pushing the boundaries of creativity through his work.
Charles started his journey as a tattoo artist in his early twenties, working in a small tattoo shop in the heart of the city but his passion for art, combined with his natural talent and dedication, helped him rise through the ranks quickly. He began experimenting with different styles, from traditional to modern, and soon became known for sharing his expertise online.
Breaking Barriers
Charles’ journey to becoming a successful tattoo artist wasn’t an easy one. He faced many challenges, including discrimination from those who viewed tattooing as an unrespectable profession. He didn’t let that stop him from pursuing his passion. Instead, he used it as motivation to work harder and prove his worth.
What sets Charles apart from other tattoo artists is his attention to detail and his ability to create tattoos that are not only beautiful but also meaningful. He spends a considerable amount of time getting to know his clients, understanding their personalities, and designing tattoos that reflect their individuality and story.
Charles’ studio is a reflection of his artistic sensibility. It’s a warm and inviting space where clients feel comfortable and relaxed, allowing Charles to create his magic.
The power of social media
What sets Charles apart from other tattoo artists is his desire to create a comprehensive learning experience for those interested in tattooing. With a passion for educating others about the art of tattooing, Charles’ love for tattooing has led him to take to social media and share his knowledge with the world. Through his social media accounts, he has garnered over 2,000 followers and 11,100 likes on TikTok and over 13,500 followers on Instagram, including his page, Tattoo Academy Ph with 13k likes and 14k followers on Facebook.
With his wide reach, he has posted numerous educational videos about tattoos, covering a wide range of topics related to tattooing, including tattoo techniques, tattoo designs, and tattoo aftercare, as well as tips on managing your tattoo business and correcting misconceptions about tattoos.
Charles is an introvert who has trouble expressing himself, so it took him a while before he gained the confidence to show himself on social media. However, through practicing and being consistent in what he’s doing, he’s slowly learning how to do it. Positive feedback from his educational videos is what helps him to continue and improve.
He is planning to launch a masterclass in June, which will be a more comprehensive learning experience for those who want to learn about tattooing. The masterclass may cover a wide range of topics, including advanced tattooing techniques, tattoo equipment, and tattoo business management. It may also provide attendees with an opportunity to interact with Charles and learn from his vast experience.
Moreover, Charles is also scheduled to conduct a Basic Tattoo & Piercing Seminar on May 07. This seminar is an introductory course for individuals who are interested in learning the basics of tattooing and piercing.
Charles’ love and commitment to tattooing have led him to become a passionate educator about the craft. He is also an advocate for responsible tattooing and proper aftercare. In his educational videos, he stresses the importance of proper hygiene and the use of high-quality tattoo equipment to prevent infections and ensure the longevity of a tattoo.
Through his Instagram videos, masterclasses, and seminars, he is helping to cultivate a new generation of tattoo artists who are knowledgeable and skilled in the art of tattooing. His commitment to responsible tattooing and proper aftercare is a testament to his dedication to the craft and his desire to ensure that tattoos remain a safe and lasting form of self-expression.
Beyond Skin-Deep
Charles’ clients include everyone from celebrities to regular people looking for an extraordinary tattoo experience. He has been featured in several magazines and online publications, and his work has earned him accolades and recognition within the tattoo community.
For Charles, it’s not about the fame or the awards. It’s about the art and the people he works with. He takes immense pride in his craft and believes that tattoos are a form of self-expression, a way for people to celebrate their uniqueness and individuality.
Charles’ work is a testament to his passion and creativity, a reminder that tattoos can be much more than just a permanent mark on the skin. They can be an extension of one’s personality, a work of art that tells a story.
In the early days of his career, Charles had reservations about doing floral designs due to the challenges they posed in drawing them. However, a pivotal moment occurred when a client approached him, seeking to cover up self-harm scars on their forearm with a floral tattoo. The client expressed that the scars served as a constant reminder of negative experiences from the past. Despite his hesitations, Charles accepted the challenge, determined to help the client.
Unfortunately, the client could not afford the tattoo and this prompted Charles to offer to do it for free as his own way of helping her. The final result turned out great, and the client was thrilled with the outcome. After a month, Charles followed up with the client and discovered that the tattoo had a positive impact on their life, and they had not experienced any negative episodes since getting it. The client expressed their gratitude to the artist for their work, which led them to return for another tattoo.
Since then, Charles has recognized that tattoos could go beyond mere aesthetics and touch people’s lives in a meaningful way. It was a turning point that changed the artist’s approach to tattooing forever.
Beyond the Ink
In a world where conformity and sameness are celebrated, Charles stands out as a beacon of individuality and artistry. His work inspires and challenges, reminding us that tattoos can be much more than just a fashion statement, they can be a celebration of life itself.
Charles’ journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. He has shown that with hard work and persistence, one can turn their passion into a successful career. He continues to inspire young artists and aspiring tattooists, showing them that tattoos can be much more than just a mark on the skin. They can be a work of art, a celebration of individuality, and a reflection of the human experience.
