From pixels to ink
Transitioning from pixels to ink feels right. Only difference? Control+Z doesn't work on human skin.
~ ChatGPT, with input form, Rafael Horvat.
Introduction
A few years have passed since I began my journey as a software engineer in Bern, Switzerland. Now, I stand on the bridge of a radical change in both lifestyle and occupation.
I've chosen the path of tattooing, aspiring to craft unique art on human skin. Although the road ahead remains long, I'm filled with a quiet confidence. In just a few short months, I believe I'll be crafting unique art on living canvases.
Why Tattooing?
"The last few decades have belonged to a certain kind of person with a certain kind of mind - computer programmers who could crank code, lawyers who could craft contracts, MBAs who could crunch numbers.
But the keys of the kingdom are changing hands.
The future belongs to a very different kind of person with a very different kind of mind - creators and empathizers, pattern recognizers and meaning makers.
These people - artists, inventors, designers, storytellers, caregivers, consolers, big picture thinkers - will now reap society's richest rewards and share its greatest joys.”
~ Daniel Pink - A Whole New Mind
For over a year, the world of software engineering felt misaligned with my passions. The quest for my true calling had me introspecting, reading, mind-mapping... you name it! My desires revolved around art, alchemy, traveling, festivals, spirituality, and countless other inspirations.
Spring 2023 brought clarity. A friend casually suggested I could tattoo her, sparking a revelation. Tattooing wasn't just an art; it could be my profession. Initially, I considered simply ordering a tattoo kit online. Diving right in was tempting, I discovered that the process was more nuanced, especially concerning sanitation. This epiphany became my stepping stone into the realm of tattooing.
Another compelling reason I see tattooing as my future lies in my past experience with body-painting at parties and festivals. The spontaneous art I've created has consistently amazed people, making this transition feel like a natural evolution of my self-expression.
My Vision for the Next Years
Initially, I imagined myself traveling in a van, a nomad with ink and needles. However, an introspective train ride after a night of dancing to psytrance unveiled a deeper vision. I felt emotionally connected to heart, and listened to the guidance... I was showered with insights and ideas for my future lifestyle.
By spring/summer 2024, I will embark on a journey, not in a van, but on foot. This slower pace promises richer experiences and adventures. Financially, it makes sense too. No van expenses, no fuel, just the basics. My abode? A simple tent.
In this minimalistic approach, a heartwarming idea emerged: offering tattoos without the constraints of money. Instead of a traditional transaction, I envision a barter system. Host me, and in return, I craft a tattoo for you. If inclined, a donation would be appreciated. This approach democratizes art, inviting those who might not have the means, while eliminating the usual pressures of monetizing my craft.
Making the Transition
Navigating the shift from IT to art is both exhilarating and daunting. Late nights and early mornings often find me deep in thought. Sometimes I'm contemplating solutions, sometimes managing a whirlwind of tasks, all while still juggling my current IT job.
Speaking of my job, I actually was very enchanted to be able to start using ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot on a daily basis. With these cutting edge technologies, I am able to skip all the boring parts of my job and actually let the computer do most of the heavy lifting for me. This is helping me relax my brain. Previously, I would get crazy about how much of my energy was constantly focused on thinking and solving problems that I encounter in my job. For that, I am really thankful that these tools exist! And thankfully:
AI will not replace you, but the person using AI will.
What's Next?
As my confidence grows, I eagerly await the moment when I can truly immerse myself in tattooing. Many have already expressed interest, and to each of you: thank you.
Finally, to commemorate this significant transition, I panned a grand celebration! I decided to rent a private nightclub and organize a party! It was an experience which resulted in a memorable night, way above all my expectations. Thank you!
Namaste 🙏🏻
Credits:
Many thanks to my friend Laree for allowing me to use this picture, and to my friend Cindy for having taken the picture during our shared magical experience at the Burning Mountain Festival (2023).
