Our story begins in 2011…Famous tattooist Stéphane Chaudesaigues and his wife, Cécile, launch the ‘Tatouage et Partage’ association, in an effort to transmit knowledge and techniques in the very unique universe of body art and tattooing. They strive to offer tattoo artists from all over the world a meeting place; they create a platform where tattooing techniques are taught experienced and shared.
The ‘Tatouage et Partage’ seminars emerged under the leadership and commitment of the biggest names in the tattoo world. In addition to delivering an academic experience, the hosts of these seminars are also willing to uncover some of their trade secrets during live tattooing sessions.
Seminars take place over two days. The first day is reserved to theory: students will be given an overview of various techniques, tools, machines, needles, inks, stencils, caps, skin care and more. The next day, the host will be tattooing in front of the class, while the work will be filmed and played back live on a big screen. This live session is a great way to illustrate and put into practice the teachings of the previous day.
The first of the ‘Tatouage et Partage’ was held in Avignon, France, the town where Stéphane Chaudesaigues’ Graphicaderme shop first opened in the 90s. Hosting the inaugural seminar was talented American tattooist Nikko Hurtado, a very gifted artist and undisputed master of the color portrait. His presentation was well received by a full house comprised of professional tattoo artists who had come to learn from the illustrious artist. “The mood was very pleasant and convivial,” said Cécile Chaudesaigues. Students were eager to learn and weren’t afraid to ask important questions. It led to a very productive exchange.
A prize drawing was held at the end of the seminar, and two lucky participants won a set of ink from Nikko Hurtado and an instructional DVD. Check out www.tatouage-partage.com to read more about the first seminar.
Seminars like this one are common in the United States, where they have been held for years. The need to transmit and share knowledge and information seems to be inherent to the American culture. Fortunately, we now have a similar system in place in France, and will be able to perpetuate the knowledge of generations of great tattoo artists.
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