Fine line with chicano hints, and a delicate sensibility that turns skin into a natural extension of the drawing. Wang Jun, a tattoo artist originally from Hefei and now based in Shanghai at his private studio “亥” (Hài), blends classical inspiration with contemporary aesthetics in works that seem to whisper stories from another time with a contemporary aesthetic. We spoke with him to learn more about his journey, his artistic influences, and how he turns each client encounter into a source of pure creative inspiration.
Hi Wang Jun, where are you from and where do you live?
I’m from Hefei and currently live in Shanghai.
Can you tell us something about your artist’s journey? How did you get involved in the tattoo world?
When I was a kid, my older sister loved drawing and taught me how to draw. Every summer vacation she would take me to art studios. Near my home in Shanghai was the Shanghai Academy of Arts and Crafts. I often saw graffiti all around and met many young people with tattoos. That planted a seed in my heart. Later, I also enrolled in the Shanghai Academy of Arts and Crafts. One night, I watched a documentary about tattooing. I was 16 at the time, and that’s when I fell in love with tattoos and started practicing. I took time off school and went to Beijing, where I found a mentor and trained for a year. After that, I returned to Shanghai and started tattooing friends around me and I’ve been doing it ever since.
Where do you currently work? Do you have your private studio?
I work in Shanghai, China. Yes I have my own studio called “亥” (Hài), named after one of the Chinese zodiac signs.
Let’s talk about your tattoos: you like lettering, black and what else? Are there some recurrent themes in your tattoos?
I also love delicate fine-line tattoos. A recurring theme in my work is angels, especially those from Renaissance paintings. I often use Renaissance angel imagery for tattoos because I believe it represents the peak of human aesthetics from that era. Even after all these years, those paintings still feel breathtaking.
I love pulling tattoo references from classical sketches and oil paintings of that time.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
From Renaissance sculptures, paintings, and frescoes, also some Eastern elements like Dunhuang murals. Sometimes even from classic film scenes. But my biggest inspiration comes from communicating with clients. Their ideas are the best source of inspiration for me.
Do you travel often for guest spots or conventions? I noticed you’ve been invited to judge at a few conventions back in China, what was that experience like for you?
In the first nine years of my career, I rarely participated in conventions. At the time, I believed that once you’ve mastered tattooing techniques, the most important things are understanding the client’s ideas and being innovative. During those years, I focused all my energy on refining my tattooing skills.
In recent years, I have served as a judge at several tattoo conventions, and it’s been an exciting experience.
As a passionate tattoo enthusiast, seeing so many great tattoos was truly thrilling. At the same time, being recognized by others and given the responsibility to provide feedback on other artists’ work as a judge feels very special, though it also comes with pressure. I believe that experience has motivated me to keep growing and improving.
How is your approach to clients? Do they come with a specific idea, or do you draw the idea together with them?
About 30% of people come with a clear idea. With the 40% of clients I discuss and create something together. Then there are others who directly choose one of my flash designs. Usually, they book online. If it’s a complex piece, I’ll have an in-person design consultation with the client beforehand. Talking face-to-face about the design is the best way for me.
Are you experimenting with new techniques or stylistic directions in your work?
Yes, I’ve been trying new things. I want to add auxiliary lines to classical sketches or photo-style tattoos. Using background or guiding lines to make the tattoo flow better with the body, that’s something I’m currently exploring. I’m also working on ways to make very fine lines hold better on skin since they tend to fade over time. I’m experimenting with techniques to make them stay sharper for longer.
Do you want to add something and greet our readers?
I’m really excited to be featured in this publication, it’s been a goal of mine for a long time. I hope you’ll keep an eye on me and check out my new work!
Lastly, thank you all!
