Welcome back to our Artist Spotlight series. Today, we’re catching up with local talent Kate Nash — a tattoo artist and illustrator whose work blends the whimsical charm of early 2000s cartoons with the rich traditions of Japanese art. From bold, eye-catching tattoos to clothing designs that carry her signature style, Kate’s creations are both playful and powerful. Based at the cosy custom studio Artemis Ink, she’s carving out a space where pop culture meets ancient influence. Let’s get to know the artist behind the art.
To begin, could you tell us a bit about your background and how your journey as an artist began?
I am a Newbury Based tattoo artist and illustrator working at Artemis Ink, a friendly little custom studio located in West Mills Yard. I have been drawing from a very early age and drew a lot of my inspiration from early 00s cartoons and pop culture. This then developed into a fascination with anime and Japanese culture when I was introduced to works produced by the animation company Studio Ghibli which still inspires a lot of my work to this day.
Over the past couple of years I have used this inspiration to further develop my own style drawing from traditional Ukiyoe art, Irezumi and modern culture to create my own unique fusion.
What was it like adapting your artwork for clothing? How does it feel to see your designs worn out in the world?
With custom tattooing, you get used to mentally letting go of your art once your client leaves the studio. As soon as it’s been transferred from my hand to their skin, it fully becomes theirs and unless I tattoo them again, I will likely never see it again. So working with clothing is always an exciting change of pace because it allows a lot more people to wear and appreciate the art I create. I am always extremely flattered whenever someone chooses to wear my art, whether on their skin or on their clothing.
Can you walk us through your creative process? Which artists or traditions have shaped your visual style the most?
I draw inspiration from so many different artists I honestly think the list is endless! From traditional woodblock painters like Kawanabe Kyosai to modern manga artists like Masashi Kishimoto, my work tends to combine elements from a wide range of sources. Not to mention many many very talented tattoo artists.
I tend to be struck by creative ideas at very inconvenient times, normally just before I fall asleep. Before I forget the idea I will grab my iPad and quickly sketch out my thoughts before falling asleep. Sometimes I wake up to find pure gold, other times I just find scribbled nonsense.
I refine my initial sketches using procreate and try to keep my designs as simple as possible while still trying to convey what I want them to. Often times this is to ensure they heal well and last the test of time as tattoos but I feel this also helps create bold and eye catching designs for clothing and paintings also.
Are there any artistic avenues, styles, or formats you’re particularly excited to explore next?
Aside from more geishas, I definitely want to increase the scale of my work and start some bigger projects with tattooing like some full back pieces. I really feel the bold chunky lines and bright colours I love to use in my work really lends itself to bigger designs. So if anyone fancies lending me a back or limb to do some cool stuff with, hit me up!
Where can people follow your work and stay up to date with your latest pieces and projects?
I am most active on my IG @katenashtattoos which I update regularly with new tattoo flash and availability.
Also check out the Artemis Ink studio IG @artemis.ink.studio to keep up to date with future events and flash days we will be running. We will be announcing some exciting things in the very near future so keep your eyes peeled!
COMPETITION
Kate has also hand painted this skateboard which you can win if you purchase one of her shirts.
Grab yourself a Kate Nash t-shirt here : https://www.blindmaggot.co.uk/collections/limited-edition/products/peach-sake-by-kate-nash
