INKEDblog takes you beneath the skin of today's tattoo culture. Our mission is to celebrate tattooing as a modern art form which incorporates art, fashion, style, and pop culture. While paying homage and respect to the past, we look to present a contemporary take on the present and future of skin art.

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Tuesday  Nov 29, 2005

INKEDblog Interviews Tattoo Artist Paul Jamison

MeandLeland.jpg

Paul Jamison tattoos the bad ass crew from TV’s “Dog the Bounty Hunter.” On top of that, he was cool enough to take some time out and talk to us. Enough said.

... Justin Pelegano

redkoi.jpgINKEDblog: Do you remember when and how your love for tattoos [and tattooing] started?

Paul: I always hung out with the older crazy f---ers in my neighborhood and went to punk rock and metal shows when I was young. Everybody I saw had tattoos and I guess it just rubbed off on me. As for doing tattoos... I saw tattooing as a way to do what I want, instead of building new homes and doing remodels. I was tired of destroying my body and wanted to find something that would make me more money without killing myself.

INKEDblog: From checking out the photos of you work, I want to describe your tattooing aesthetic as traditional with a modern edge. Is it important for you to keep your work rooted in tradition?

Paul: First off, I hate traditional tattoos. I don't think I have a traditional bone in my body. I would describe my work as realistic more than anything else. I really like to do black and grey stuff. I also like to do fish. So maybe my style is more "Modern Realistic.” I don't root myself in anything. I just do what I do.

INKEDblog: How did you get hooked up with Leland and the crew from Dog The Bounty Hunter?

Paul: I lived in Hawaii on the island of Oahu for 3 years. I worked at Tiki Tattoo in Waikiki for a little over 2 years before moving back home to the South Bay. Leland came into the shop one night and said he wanted some work done. Since then, I've become good friends with the whole Chapman family and I have tattooed 4 of them now including Leland, Dwayne Lee, Baby Lisa, and Youngblood (Tim). I still tattoo them when they come to Los Angeles so check out the 3rd season for some new work. I love that show!!!!!

INKEDblog: You're also a musician and an actor, but is it safe to say that no matter where you're at with your band or the acting gigs, that you'll always find the time and desire to tattoo?

Paul: Yeah, I play bass in ORPHANED TO HATRED (OTH). I have also been an extra in a few things. THE BIG BOUNCE being the latest film I was in. Sure, even with all the touring and movie s---, I still love tattooing. I almost crave tattooing sometimes. Kind of like a need to stay creative I guess.

INKEDblog: Better experience: Giving ink or receiving ink?

Paul: Of course getting ink, just not the pain. No pain, No gain I always say.

Check out Paul’s tat work at www.tattoopaul.com





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