A Tokyo-based tattoo artist reflects on the cultural tensions surrounding body art in Japan, where deep-rooted taboos clash with growing acceptance. The discussion explores how societal perceptions shape both the practice and the public’s reaction to tattoos, particularly in a country where they have long been associated with marginalization. Hirata shares insights into navigating these contradictions, offering a glimpse into the evolving relationship between tradition and modernity in Japanese tattoo culture. The conversation delves into the personal and artistic struggles of working within a space where visibility remains both a challenge and a form of resistance.
A Conversation With Tokyo Tattoo Artist Keisuke Hirata on Taboo, Acceptance and the In-Between Tokyo Weekender
