This week, New York Art Life had the opportunity to interview a name that shines with international acclaim and artistic versatility in the field of tattoo artistry, the talented John Maxwell. With over 19 years of experience and a decade spent honing his craft across continents, Maxwell has risen as a true pioneer in the world of color realism, fine-line tattoos, and portraiture. His journey shows the true power of passion and unwavering commitment to artistic excellence from Canada to Nicaragua and Costa Rica.
Get ready to be amazed by the unparalleled talent of John Maxwell, a tattoo artist who is truly redefining realism in the world of ink! Known as a celebrity tattoo artist, John is celebrated for his exquisite expertise in color realism, black and gray realism, fine line tattoos, and portraiture. His advanced proficiency in shading techniques and fine-line tattooing techniques sets him apart in an industry bursting with talent. Whether you’re a celebrity, a military veteran, or a high-profile figure looking for exceptional artistry, John Maxwell is the go-to artist for those who demand nothing but the best.
John’s ability to adapt to diverse artistic styles and cater to unique client needs is nothing short of extraordinary. His work isn’t just about placing ink on skin; it’s about creating living, breathing pieces of art that tell a story. From intricate portraits that capture every nuance of expression to vibrant color pieces that pop with life, his exceptional artistry has earned him a global clientele. Imagine having your skin transformed into a canvas by someone whose skills surpass mere technical proficiency to touch the realm of pure genius! John Maxwell’s tattoos are not just designs; they are masterpieces that resonate with emotion and authenticity.
In the ever-evolving world of tattoo artistry, John Maxwell stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. His dedication to his craft and ability to push the boundaries of what’s possible in tattoo realism make him a true revolutionary. With a portfolio that dazzles and a reputation that speaks volumes, John is not just setting standards—he’s redefining them. Get ready to be inspired and transformed by the magic of John Maxwell’s artistry!
Currently based at Urge Tattoo, Victoria’s oldest and most prestigious tattoo studio, he continues to push the boundaries of his art. Maxwell collaborates with industry veterans and leaves an indelible mark on the skin and souls of a diverse clientele. We sat down with this globetrotting artist to explore his extraordinary career, artistic philosophy, and the stories etched in ink and memory.
New York Art Life: John, your career spans nearly two decades and multiple countries. How did your journey in tattoo artistry begin, and what drove you to take your skills internationally?
John Maxwell: This is an excellent question to start with! My journey into the world of tattoo artistry began with a deep-seated passion for art and a fascination with the permanence and personal nature of tattoos. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of creating art that people carry with them for life. It’s an incredible responsibility and honor.
The decision to take my skills internationally was driven by a combination of wanderlust and a desire to expand my artistic horizons. Artists are greatly influenced by the environment. Starting in Canada, then moving to Nicaragua and Costa Rica, and now back in Canada – each location has added new layers to my artistry. The vibrant colors and rich cultural heritage of Central America, for instance, greatly influenced my approach to color realism. Meanwhile, the diverse clientele in tourist-heavy areas like Whistler and Victoria has continually challenged me to adapt my style to meet a wide range of artistic preferences.
New York Art Life: You’re renowned for your expertise in color realism, fine-line tattoos, and portraiture. Can you walk us through the process of creating these intricate pieces, mainly when working with high-profile clients?
John Maxwell: My process always begins with a deep dive into the client’s vision. It is essential to understand their story and what the tattoo means to them. May it be a celebrity like Lucy Hale or a military veteran, an initial consultation helps me translate their ideas into a design that’s not just visually stunning but also deeply personal.
For color realism and portraiture, I start with extensive research and reference gathering. If I’m tattooing a portrait of a historical figure like Clint Eastwood or a character from “Vikings,” I’ll study multiple images to capture the essence of their features and expressions. I then create a detailed sketch, focusing on achieving lifelike depth and dimension. The tattooing process is meticulous. For color realism, I build up layers of color gradually. I really pay close attention to skin tone and how different pigments interact. It’s a time-intensive process, but it’s what allows me to achieve that three-dimensional, almost photographic quality in my work.
With fine-line tattoos, precision is key. I use specialized needles and adjust my technique to create delicate, crisp lines. These tattoos often require a steady hand and an understanding of how the design will age on the skin.
New York Art Life: Seven Teen Choice Awards, a Gracie Award, a People’s Choice Award, and two Young Hollywood Awards! We are talking about your beautiful and extraordinary Lucy Hale, known to many as Karen Lucille Hale, the American actress and singer. Can you tell us about this experience?
John Maxwell: When working with high-profile clients, there’s an added layer of discretion and often intense time constraints, making the experience both thrilling and challenging! I had the incredible opportunity to tattoo the iconic of the celebrity world. The pressure was on as we worked efficiently to create her “Lulu” fine-line tattoo. This wasn’t just any tattoo session. It had to ensure absolute quality and privacy for a star who has received various accolades. The energy in the room was electrifying as we meticulously crafted her design, knowing this piece would be a cherished part of her already glittering life. The blend of artistry and confidentiality made it an unforgettable experience!
New York Art Life: You’ve owned and operated tattoo studios in various locations, from Whistler to Nicaragua. How has this entrepreneurial experience shaped your approach to tattooing and client relations?
John Maxwell: Running my own studios, especially in locations like Nicaragua and Costa Rica, has been an incredible learning experience. It has taught me the importance of adaptability and resilience in this industry. In Nicaragua, for instance, I partnered with local cinemas to create a unique tattooing environment. This experience taught me the value of thinking outside the box and creating memorable experiences for clients. It also honed my ability to work efficiently without compromising on quality. I think it’s a skill that’s invaluable in high-pressure situations or when dealing with a busy studio schedule.
The entrepreneurial aspect has also made me acutely aware of the business side of tattooing. It’s about more than just creating great art. It’s about building relationships. It’s also managing expectations and creating a welcoming studio environment. This kind of approach has helped me in my current role at Urge Tattoo, where I can focus on my art while contributing to the overall studio atmosphere.
New York Art Life: Your portfolio includes work for celebrities, military veterans, and various high-profile figures. Can you share a particularly memorable project and the story behind it?
John Maxwell: One project that stands out is the warrior tattoo I created for Paul Egly, a retired military officer. This piece was significant because it wasn’t just about creating a visually striking tattoo. It was about turning Paul’s experiences and the essence of his service into an art on his skin.
We spent considerable time discussing his military career, the challenges he faced, and the values that guided him. The resulting design was a powerful warrior figure. I blended elements of realism with symbolic details that represented different aspects of Paul’s journey. The tattoo incorporated realistic portraiture techniques to capture the warrior’s determined expression. The armor and weapons were designed with intricate details that each held significance for Paul. We also integrated subtle elements that represented his unit and key moments in his career.
What made this project special was the emotional weight it carried. As I worked on the piece, Paul shared stories from his service. I was reminded that I’m not just putting ink on my skin. What we’re doing is helping people tell their stories and commemorate significant parts of their lives. Seeing his reaction when he first saw the completed tattoo was one of the most rewarding moments of my career. It reinforced for me the power of tattooing as a medium for storytelling. I love being a tattoo artist!
New York Art Life: As an experienced tattoo artist, what advice would you give to people who are considering getting their first tattoo or adding to their collection?
John Maxwell: That’s a great question, and it’s one I get asked a lot. My first piece of advice is to take your time. A tattoo is a lifelong commitment, so it’s crucial to really think about what you want and why you want it. Don’t rush into a decision based on trends or pressure from others. Look at different styles, artists, and studios. Don’t just settle for the first or cheapest option you find. A good tattoo isn’t cheap, and a cheap tattoo isn’t good. Consider the placement of your tattoo carefully! Think about how it might affect your professional life and how it will age as your body changes over time.
New York Art Life: As someone who has worked in some of the most prestigious studios, including Victoria’s oldest tattoo shop, what do you see as the future of tattoo artistry?
John Maxwell: Oh well, the future of tattoo artistry is exciting! We’re seeing a beautiful convergence of traditional techniques and technology. Digital design tools allow for precision in planning complex pieces. The advancements in inks and machines? They’re opening up new possibilities for color and detail. In terms of styles, I see a continued evolution of realism, with artists pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the skin. We’re also seeing a resurgence of interest in traditional and cultural tattooing methods, which I find fascinating as it connects us to the rich history of our craft.
New York Art Life: As a tattoo artist, how do you continue to innovate in your work?
I believe strongly in collaboration. Working alongside talented artists like Mark Hammond and Mataio at Urge Tattoo constantly pushes me to refine my skills and try new approaches. An incredible energy comes from being in a space with other passionate artists. You bounce creativity off each other! Also, I’m always looking to expand my artistic influences beyond tattooing. I study traditional fine art techniques, digital art, and architectural design. This mix of ideas helps me bring fresh perspectives to my tattoo work.
New York Art Life: Finally, John, what advice would you give to aspiring tattoo artists who are looking to build a career as diverse and successful as yours?
John Maxwell: My first piece of advice would be never to stop learning. Tattooing is an art form that requires lifelong dedication to improvement. Start with a solid foundation in drawing and art theory, and then just commit yourself to continuous learning. Attend conventions, take workshops, and study the work of artists you admire. Have consistency to keep doing these things. Secondly, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. My international experiences have helped shape me as an artist. If you have the opportunity to work in different environments or cultures, seize it! It’s also crucial to develop strong interpersonal skills. Being able to connect with clients, understand their vision, and guide them through the process is just as important as your technical skills. While it’s great to have a signature style, being versatile will open up more opportunities, too.
Lastly, this industry can be challenging, but if you stay true to your artistic vision and treat every piece with the same level of commitment, you’ll build a reputation that will carry you far. I think success in this field is about a lot of things like perseverance and professionalism. Don’t forget the genuine love for the art of tattooing!
New York Art Life’s conversation with expert tattoo artist John Maxwell only shows how tattoo artistry is impactful to the lives of both artists and clients. With each new client and each new piece, Maxwell continues to leave a mark on skin and lives. We hope that this interview motivated you to keep honing your craft as an artist or simply made you appreciate art more. If you want to look at Maxwell’s artistry, visit his Instagram page,
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