Basilio

"Discover the Bold Vision of Basilio: Master of 'Street Pop Art' Tattoos"

How did you discover your passion for tattooing, and what inspired you to make it your career?

I discovered my passion for tattooing through my oldest brother, who introduced me to the basics of the craft. At the time, I didn’t see a clear future for tattooing as a career—it was something I pursued simply because I enjoyed it. Over time, my love for the art grew, and everything changed when I was discovered by my mentor. That pivotal moment inspired me to take tattooing seriously as a career, and it’s been an incredible journey ever since.

How would you define your tattooing style, and what makes it unique?

My tattooing journey began with Japanese Oriental and Neo-Traditional styles, but over the years, I transitioned to realism. More recently, I’ve developed a unique style I call 'Street Pop Art Tattoo,' which blends the influences of street art and pop art. Inspired by visionaries like Basquiat, Andy Warhol, and Banksy, my work focuses on bold and impactful visuals. What makes my style truly distinctive are the colors—I consistently use my signature orange and blue in the background. This creates a visual identity that allows people to instantly recognize my work as mine.

Which artists or styles have influenced your work the most

My work is heavily influenced by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, and Banksy, each of whom has profoundly shaped my approach to tattooing. Basquiat’s raw and chaotic expression of emotion and his use of vivid, layered elements inspire the unfiltered creativity in my designs. Andy Warhol’s mastery of bold colors and his ability to turn everyday subjects into iconic works of art have taught me the importance of striking visuals and cultural relevance.

Banksy’s street art, with its clever commentary and rebellious spirit, pushes me to infuse meaning and edge into my work. Their collective influence has encouraged me to think beyond traditional tattooing, blending street art and pop art into something fresh and vibrant. By channeling their innovation and daring, I’ve been able to create a style that feels alive, impactful, and unapologetically expressive.

What’s the most meaningful or challenging tattoo you’ve ever done, and why?

The most challenging tattoo I’ve ever done was this piece, completed during the Thailand Tattoo Expo 2023. The experience was intense—not just because of the tattoo’s complexity, but due to unexpected challenges.

After the1st day session, my model fainted, and we nearly had to rush him to the hospital. The language barrier made communication difficult, as English isn’t widely spoken there. The next day, I was ready to call it off, but my model insisted on continuing. His determination and resilience were inspiring, and we pushed through to finish the piece. In the end, it was all worth it—we landed 3rd place Best of Show.

This tattoo symbolizes more than just skill; it’s a testament to perseverance and teamwork in the face of obstacles.

How do you handle the emotional connection between a client and their tattoo?

The emotional connection between a client and their tattoo is something I take very seriously. For many, a tattoo isn’t just art—it’s a story, a memory, or a reflection of their identity. My role as an artist is to listen carefully and understand the deeper meaning behind their idea.

I make it a point to create a safe and open space for my clients to share their stories and inspirations. Whether it’s honoring a loved one, celebrating a milestone, or simply expressing their individuality, I ensure that every design resonates with them on a personal level.

Throughout the process, I involve the client in shaping the final design so that it feels authentic to their vision. Seeing their emotional reaction when the tattoo is complete is one of the most rewarding parts of my work—it’s a reminder of how powerful this art form truly is.

What is your process for designing a custom tattoo for a client?

My process for designing a custom tattoo is collaborative and deeply personalized. It starts with a conversation where I get to know the client’s story, ideas, and vision. I ask questions to understand the symbolism, emotions, or aesthetic they want to capture in the design.

Once I have a clear sense of their concept, I begin sketching ideas, often blending their input with my artistic interpretation. This is where I bring in elements of my signature style, like bold colors or unique textures, while ensuring the design stays true to their vision.

On the day of the tattoo, I make sure the placement and size are perfect for their body and the design flows seamlessly with their natural shape. It’s a process that requires both technical precision and a strong connection with the client.

What’s your take on how the art of tattooing has evolved in recent years?

The art of tattooing has evolved tremendously in recent years, both in terms of technique and perception. Advances in tools and technology, like precision machines, better-quality inks, and innovative aftercare products, have allowed artists to push the boundaries of what’s possible. We’re now able to achieve incredible levels of detail, vibrant color saturation, and intricate designs that were once unimaginable.

Beyond the technical side, the cultural shift has been just as significant. Tattoos have become more widely accepted and celebrated as a legitimate art form, with people from all walks of life embracing them as a means of self-expression. Social media has also played a huge role, giving tattoo artists a platform to showcase their work to a global audience and inspiring a cross-pollination of styles and ideas.

What I find most exciting is the way tattooing has opened up as a space for personal storytelling and unique creativity. Artists today are blending traditional methods with influences from fine art, graphic design, and street art, creating styles that are constantly evolving. It’s an exciting time to be part of an art form that’s not only growing but also redefining itself in so many ways.

What advice would you give to someone considering their first tattoo?

My advice for a first tattoo is to take your time and make it meaningful. Research artists whose style fits your vision, and don’t hesitate to discuss your ideas with them. Consider placement carefully, thinking about visibility and how it fits your lifestyle.

Trust your artist’s expertise, and follow their aftercare instructions to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully. Most importantly, enjoy the experience—it’s a special milestone!

What tools or techniques do you prefer to use, and how have your methods evolved over time?

I prefer using rotary machines for their precision and versatility, especially for intricate designs and large-scale pieces. When it comes to inks, I’m proud to work with Xtreme Tattoo Ink for its vibrant and long-lasting pigments. I also rely on high-quality tools like Emalla Needles to ensure precision and consistency in my work. Additionally, OG Produce has been an incredible partner, supporting my creative journey with premium supplies.

When I first started, my techniques leaned more toward traditional styles, focusing on bold lines and shading. As my style evolved into realism and my 'Street Pop Art' approach, I refined my methods to emphasize detail, texture, and bold color contrasts.

Thanks to these exceptional tools and sponsors, I’ve been able to push my work to new heights and stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

What are your goals or future projects as a tattoo artist?

My main goal is to promote the 'Street Pop Art' style I’ve been developing over the past few years, making it more recognized within the tattoo community and beyond. I plan to showcase my work at more conventions and art shows, collaborate with other artists, and possibly create a series that highlights this unique style.

Additionally, I want to give back by mentoring aspiring tattoo artists, sharing my knowledge, and inspiring others to push creative boundaries. It’s important to me to not only grow as an artist but also contribute to the evolution of tattooing as an art form.