“Understatement and neatness are what I’m all about,” interview with tattoo artist, Foret
Tattoo artist, Foret ([@foret\_tattoo](https://www.instagram.com/foret_tattoo) on Insta) is based in Itaewon in Seoul, Korea, and has been tattooing for six years now. She works out of [Nandostudio](https://www.instagram.com/nandostudios/). On her own body, she has just one secret hidden tattoo, and she loves creating miniature works of art for collectors who love fine line tattoos. We sat down to have a chat with her…
## How did you become a tattoo artist?
When I was in college, some friends had tattoos and I was fascinated with them. My interest just grew from there…
## What made you want to become a tattoo artist?
When I saw my friend’s old tattoo, I had a cheeky thought, ‘I’d do better than that’. It was such a small curiosity, but it’s what made me start tattooing.
## Did you have a background in art?
I studied art for around two years at art college.
## Do you have any tattoos? Can you tell us about them…
I have a small heart-shaped tattoo on my collarbone, it sort of looks like a little dot. I got this tattoo before I learned how to tattoo. I wanted to know what it would feel like. But I also just wanted to have a small, cute tattoo – it’s like a secret tattoo that others don’t necessarily notice. I love that, like it’s something just for me.
## What was the first tattoo you did on someone else?
It’s a tattoo of three small and cute people holding hands. I remember being so nervous that my hands were shaking.
## How would you describe your style?
My own design, understatement and neatness are the things that represent me. When drawing, I pay attention to the each tiny part.
## Would you call yourself a fine line tattooer?
I’m ashamed of the name, but I admit it.
## What drew you to small, delicate tattoos?
There are many people who like small and delicate tattoos in Korea. It’s like that in any country. So I’m continuing to do a lot of small tattoos. Originally, I liked big tattoos too, but of course, I need to meet the needs of my customers. That’s what tattooing is all about.
## What do you like to tattoo? Do you prefer colour or black and grey?
I like both. But if I get more tattoos on my own body, I think I’ll get them in colour. I like the vintage colour and how it looks when it becomes one with my skin after time.
## What inspires you and do you have any artists you admire?
One of the tattoo artists I’m interested in these days is Cheon moon (@moon.cheon). There’s an authenticity to his work. I actually met someone with one of his tattoos and I was so jealous. You can see how much he cares about doing tattoos.
## Do you have any guest spots planned?
Yes. Next year, I have guest spot plans in Hong Kong, New York, Singapore and Japan. I’m already happy and looking forward to meeting guests from each country.
## What’s been your proudest moment so far?
When I felt like I was ready to teach others the craft of tattooing. I was very proud of myself when I shared with them what I’ve learnt over the years. I want to continue to help many people – without forgetting the joy of such a magical job.
Give Foret a follow on Insta [@foret\_tattoo](https://www.instagram.com/foret_tattoo)
We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, [check out our latest interviews](https://www.th-ink.co.uk/category/interview/).
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