No46 [Focus] Tattooing in all its forms
Though it is more accepted abroad, the practice of tattooing is still challenged by the Japanese authorities. They’re all around us. They live in our […]
tattoo
No46 [Encounter] A lifetime to achieve excellence
The last grand master of traditional tattooing, Horiyoshi III recalls his long life in the profession. It is 9 a.m., and Hanasakicho is still asleep. […]
No46 [History] An art endangered by secrecy
After almost falling into oblivion tattooing has regained recognition across Japan, but tastes have changed. Perception of tattoos in Japan is paradoxical. The archipelago has […]
No46 [Evolution] With a touch of kawaii
Aki Bonten is certain that otaku culture will help irezumi emerge from the shadows. The future of Japanese tattooing is hidden behind an unmarked apartment […]
No46 [Book] All about the art of tattoos
Always at the top, Tuttle publishing has recently brought out an excellent book about irezumi. Since Donald Richie’s 1980 book first piqued western readers’ interest […]