Nikko Hurtado: Tattoo Mastery, Social Media Addiction, and Giving Back to the Craft

The Impact of Social Media and a Deep Dive into Tattoo Artistry with Nikko Hurtado

We kick things off by discussing how we celebrate the world of tattooing and creativity with a legendary figure in the tattoo industry, Nikko Hurtado. Nikko's work in photo-realism tattoos has significantly influenced host Aaron Della Vedova's career, and his presence on the show is an honor.

They delve into the addictive nature of social media and its resemblance to slot machines. We explore how algorithms manipulate our behavior, potentially leading to addiction and mental health issues. This topic sets the stage for a broader conversation about the digital age's impact on our lives.

Nikko Hurtado has been tattooing for 22 years and is renowned for his photo-realism tattoos that resemble HD photographs on skin. His talent has led him to tattoo celebrities like Puff Daddy, Drake, and The Rock. He's also a prominent figure on TV shows like "Ink Master" and "LA Ink," a father of three, and the owner of Black Anchor Ink with locations in Hesperia and Hollywood, California.

During our conversation, Nikko shares his journey in the tattoo industry, starting from his apprenticeship at Art Junkies Tattoo to his current status as a respected artist. He reflects on the evolution of his career and the importance of continuous learning, which includes taking classes in different art forms like sculpting and Japanese tattooing to better judge on "Ink Master."

Nikko also delves into his entrepreneurial ventures, such as creating Revolution Ink and Vortex rotary machines. He emphasizes the importance of owning his work and not being tied down by sponsorships or external pressures.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the economics of tattooing, the potential for industry growth, and the importance of staying productive and innovative during slower periods. Nikko's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion for one's craft, and the transformative impact of tattooing on both artists and clients alike.

Join us for this inspiring and insightful conversation with Nikko Hurtado, a true master of the art of tattooing.

Chat breakdown:

[00:00:09] Social media addiction.

[00:05:27] Tattooing dragon workshop experience.

[00:08:29] Giving back to tattooing community.

[00:12:51] Ink Master competition experiences.

[00:17:09] First tattoo award memories.

[00:20:25] Tattooing as a life changer.

[00:29:53] Tattoo pigment making secrets.

[00:35:39] Facing criticism in the industry.

[00:41:55] The devil in your head.

[00:44:31] Alcohol and self-discipline.

[00:54:55] Addiction to social media.

[01:02:48] Future of tattooing without drawing.

[01:14:08] Mastering art through observation.

[01:16:21] The potential of AI.

[01:33:23] Tattooing advice for beginners.

[01:38:09] Tattoo machine story.

[01:40:42] Tattooing and community values.

[01:53:39] Tattooing and client relationships.

[01:57:04] Bringing back Black Anchor Academy.

Quotes:

"I was terrified, because I'm like, dude, I've been tattooing at that point maybe 20 years. I'm like, if I go on there and lose on the first round, which is very possible, my ego couldn't have handled it."

"And you can tell she really loves tattooing. That's the point, right? It's for the love of tattooing."

"You show up, you show up, dude, you show up and you keep showing up and you knock on that fucking door. And then that door eventually opens, you know what I mean? That's the whole point of perseverance, right?"

"That's my Bible, man, really, is The Four Agreements."

"Honoring your word is a big one, but especially the word you make to yourself."

"I want to look in the mirror and be proud of me. For sure. You know, when you look in that mirror and you're like, oh, you're kind of a, you kind of fucked up yesterday. You knew better. You did it anyway. The guilt. I've had those days and I'm like, I'm sick of this, man. I don't want to look in the mirror and feel that way, you know?"

"You don't have to be born with some special creative talent. The one thing was that ability to create, and that's being removed."

"I think AI is gonna get to a point where it's gonna be like the second coming of Christ."

"Like, step out of your comfort zone and try something different, you know, and don't just be that Internet tattooer, you know, because it's going to lose some magic. And it's the magic that makes this industry so great."

"Tattooing's cool, and being a great tattooer is cool, but to me what's cooler is experiencing the things you can't read online."

"Any support you've ever given me, dude, has led me to this point in my life, and I just want you to know, even if you felt like you were unseen, unheard, or not paid attention to, I'm telling you thank you."

"And gratitude is what you're talking about there. And, uh, that's a good place to vibrate in is gratitude."

Stay Connected:

Connect with Nikko:

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

Website: https://nikkohurtado.com/

Connect with Aaron:⁠

Website: http://www.chatsandtatts.comm

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chatsandtatts

IG: http://www.instagram.com/chatsandtatts

Chats & Tatts YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/chatsandtatts

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

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