72. PAUL SIMO ‘KELU’ - Go to the roots, not to the fruits
Today’s guest, Kelu, takes us on an inspiring journey that begins in Romania, where he first picked up a tattoo machine, and winds through the vibrant Paris scene of the '90s.
He shares tough lessons from old-school apprenticeships and offers insights on the evolution of tattoo styles. Kelu also explains the importance of honoring the art's origins over chasing fleeting trends.
After 30 years, he's trading his tattoo machine for a paintbrush, a transition he sees as a new chapter of creative freedom and authenticity.
Kelu's words are a testament to artistic resilience, revealing how true fulfillment comes from a willingness to evolve and find a new creative purpose.
Follow Kelu on Instagram
Kelu’s paintings
stefbastian.com
@stef_bastian
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71. DIAMANTE MURRU - Meaningful connections
Diamante is a tattoo artist well known for her black work and ornamental style. She also created her own line of clothing and a tattoo supply focused on sustainability. As fellow Italian I can relate to this need for different creative outlets, proper of the Renaissance artist.
It’s been fun, heartwarming and inspiring to spend an afternoon talking about creativity, the power of choices, and her own very approach built on the human connection, a foundation of her process.
I gotta say, with her bright and positive energy, it couldn’t be easier to talk to her.
Find more about Diamante on Instagram
Book a time with her
Minimal ethic tattoo supply
Minimal ethic clothing
[The volumes on Japanese mythology mentioned in the episode are part of the series ‘Gods of medieval Japan’ by Bernard Faure]
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70. ISAAC NICHOLS - The Water Margin: 108 heroes
Today's guest is Isaac Nichols, a tattooer from Alaska that just finished this commendable project which celebrates folklores, tattooing, and painting.
We discussed the motivations and process behind his new book, a little bit of advice for painting and tattooing, and the background story of one of the most celebrated novels in Chinese and Japanese folklore.
Find Isaac on Instagram
The Water Margin: PREORDER
The Water Margin: EXHIBITION
ATAK
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69. Learn to draw and paint like a Japanese master: the Kanō school method
Are you a fan of Japanese traditional painting and tattooing?
In this episode I share my findings on the rigorous training methods of Japanese painters during the Edo and Meiji periods, emphasising how expertise was forged through discipline and observation, not just innate talent. It delves into the traditional apprenticeship system, with the Kano school exemplifying this systematic approach.
The discussion also highlights numi geiko, a proactive pursuit of knowledge beyond formal lessons, exemplified by Kyosai's intense training and his broad integration of diverse influences.
The examples of these masters can help you integrate training methods in your own practice to improve and sharpen your skills.
stefbastian.com
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68. COREY MILLER - We’re all glorified carnies
Corey is well known worldwide—he’s been tattooing for over 40 years, and his technique and experience are widely respected.
Over the course of his long career, he has reached significant personal milestones and professional accomplishments. You might remember him from LA Ink, tattooing James Hetfield, and working closely with legendary artists like Bob Roberts, Jack Rudy, and Mark Mahoney.
What stands out as the main theme, though, is his deep connection with people—a pattern I’ve noticed both in my own journey and in the stories of other seasoned artists.
Once you reach certain professional and artistic goals, you realise it all boils down to the most basic, meaningful things: friends, family, people.
Corey’s experience and progressive attitude can inspire us to keep our heads up during turbulent times, overcome obstacles, and honour the responsibility we carry as tattooers.
Follow Corey on Instagram
News, mentoring and shop: stefbastian.com
Go to the roots, not to the fruits.
I’m your host, Stef Bastiàn, tattooer with over twenty years of experience, traveler, painter, coach. Join me to improve your artistic, personal and professional journey through the stories and insights of inspiring guests, within and outside the tattoo world.
Learn more about my different projects and programs at https://www.stefbastian.com/
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