The LA-based tattoo artists tells us about his geometric designs and how he got started


 

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Photo courtesy of PJ Lam at Fast Management


 

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Taiwanese actor and model Sunny Wang gets a tattoo in the Dr's Office pop-up space in Landmark | Photo courtesy of PJ Lam at Fast Management


 

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Dr Woo wears a black Paul Smith jacket, available at Landmark | Photo courtesy of PJ Lam at Fast Management


  

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Photo courtesy of Dr Woo


Considered one of the world's best tattoo artists and a member of the prestigious Shamrock Social Club, Dr. Woo's name is internationally synonymous with stunning designs and clean lines. Creative, daring and exact, you don't have to love tattoos to appreciate the artistry of his ink. His international celebrity clients include Kendall Jenner, Miley Cyrus, Emilia Clarke and G-Dragon, among other Hollywood stars. We catch up with the LA-based artist on his recent trip to Hong Kong to find out all about his ink philosophy.  

What is it that first attracted you to Hong Kong and what keeps pulling you back to the city?

There is a bustling energy to Hong Kong. The people here are always working, creating, and hustling to get stuff done. I can feel that vibe. I really like the speed at which the city and the people operate. The great shopping doesn’t hurt, either. 

Can you describe your signature fine line and geometric style and how it’s evolved over your career? 

I learned fine line tattooing from my mentor, Mark Mahoney, who is one of the people who pioneered that style and aesthetic. Over the years, I’ve applied it more and more to detailed, small-scale designs that are both subtle and impactful. The more I’ve done it, the more people ask for it. 

Who are the two people that have shaped your career as a tattoo artist most significantly and why?

In terms of importance, there’s only one. Mark Mahoney brought me into this business, and he taught me not only how to tattoo, but how to be a tattooer. 

You are prominent on social media but also a very private person. How do you keep your feet on the ground surrounded by all the hype?

I’m truly flattered by my following and the attention I get. I think my family keeps me grounded. Wanting to do what is best for them, as well as to be better at what I do, keeps me focused and gives me the energy to work hard every day.   

Who are some global tattoo artists that we should keep an eye on in the future?

My mentor Mark Mahoney, and all of the legends I work with at Shamrock Social Club. There are so many good artists today, but I think it’s more important to focus on the people who paved the way for what is possible in tattooing, and who made tattoos into what they are today.  

 

What motivates you to break through your comfort zone and continue to work on your craft?

In my tattoo pedigree, I learned that I’m not the only person involved when I do a tattoo. The customer is just as equal to the process as I am, and so I know that I have to be able to give them the best tattoo that I can, and the tattoo that they want. In tattooing, you can’t be stagnant with your work.  

Where do you eat, shop, chill, and party when you’re in Hong Kong?

I shop at Landmark, and I eat at Ho Lee Fook and Yardbird. I like exploring the old parts of the city, and seeing the things outside of the normal tourist attractions.  

Why is an event like Landmark’s ‘Appreciate the Craft’ so important to a city like Hong Kong?

It’s helping to bring emerging trends to Hong Kong from the West, and to define modern men’s style. I think it’s rad that Hong Kong is such a melting pot of fashion, art and culture, and I am honored to be able to be considered an influence. 

If someone only had 24 hours in LA what are the 5 things they should see and do?

Eat at In N’ Out Burger, see the stars at the Griffith Observatory, relax at the beaches, check out the art at MOCA, and get a taste of old Los Angeles at Greystone Mansion.  

What was your very first tattoo and who did it?

My first tattoo was a dragon on my leg, tattooed by Joe Vegas