#99: The Intimacy of Tebori with Horikei

Tebori tattooing, a traditional Japanese hand-poked method, is more than just a technique; it embodies a philosophy that emphasizes a profound human connection and energy transfer between the tattoo artist and the client. Practiced for thousands of years, this method involves using a long stick with needles attached to the end, allowing the artist to create tattoos without the aid of machines. This simplicity lies at the heart of the Tebori experience, fostering a unique and intimate atmosphere during the tattooing process, and our guest today is one of the masters of this craft.

In this episode of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova welcomes Rueben "Horikei" Kayden, a seasoned tattoo artist with 26 years of experience, to discuss the evolution of tattooing. The conversation delves into the past, present, and future of the industry, exploring how it has rapidly transformed over the years. The guest shares valuable insights, particularly about tabori tattooing, the traditional Japanese hand-poked method that has been practiced for thousands of years. Aaron and his guest reflect on the significance of this ancient technique in contrast to modern tattooing practices, setting the stage for a deep dive into the art and culture of tattooing.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that highlights the artistry and craftsmanship behind tattoos.

Chat Highlights:

[00:01:06] Future of tattooing.

[00:06:17] Tattooing in Japan.

[00:10:28] Energy transfer in tattooing.

[00:17:09] Spirituality in craftsmanship.

[00:31:56] Tabori technique challenges.

[00:36:08] Power of simplicity in tattoos.

[00:46:10] Tattoo pain management techniques.

[00:49:23] Tattooing under anesthesia discussion.

[00:58:19] Tattoo past, present, and future.

[01:01:22] The beauty of impermanence.

[01:05:04] Future of handmade artistry.

[01:07:19] Tattooing as a lifestyle choice.

[01:12:00] Traditional Japanese tattooing.

Quotes:

"We're tattooers, man. We're not in the business of being people's, you know, helping them be more personally responsible with their lives." -Aaron

"It's a human to human contact. There's no electrons, there's no machine, there's no rotary, there's no cartridge, there's no nothing. It's simplicity at its best, right? It's art made by humans for humans." -Horikei

"You're like a horse with blinders on. You're just like the smell, you know, smell, sight, emotions, all of it's all interconnected." -Horikei

"I just know it's happening and it's beautiful and it's really become probably the thing I'm most happy about to have spent my life doing this art form." -Aaron

"Tebori is a human rhythm... it rocks you to sleep." -Horikei

"It was more dangerous to drive the fucking car than it was to go in under anesthesia." -Aaron

"We're tattooers, man. We're not in the business of being people's, you know, helping them be more personally responsible with their lives." -Aaron

"Comparison is the thief of all joy, man, for sure." -Horikei

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Connect with Aaron:⁠

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

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

Connect with Horikei:

IG:https://www.instagram.com/horikei617/