“Give me a piece of your skin, & I’ll give you a piece of my soul.” -Jay Freestyle

Freehand tattoo artist, Jay Freestyle, was born to conservative Chinese parents in Johannesburg, South Africa. The absence of a creative scene in his hometown inspired him to move to Amsterdam at 19. He’s been making an international name for himself ever since.

He describes his style as watercolor, but in reality, it’s evident that he incorporates many of the styles he’s absorbed over the years. Like so many truly gifted people, he’s entirely self taught, which probably has a lot to do with the unpredictable turns his works take. He makes up his designs as he goes along, a process that certainly won’t suit everyone. That’s a big, fat leap of faith on the part of both the artist and the canvas.

“Not everyone wants my style. Usually from the first couple of minutes of talking to someone, I can see if they want ‘my style’ or if they want me to do something realistic or traditional.”

According to his website, he comes to New York often and does guest artist spots in a few high-profile tattoo shops. I’m really tempted. I don’t want anything with a face, but I would love one of his abstract pieces.

Hope you enjoy his work as much as I do.

http://www.tattooj.com/