HOKUTO HOKUTO

HOKUTO

Guest Artists(Kyoto)

Born in Mie, Japan, HOKUTO discovered his passion for tattooing during high school. Inspired by his encounter with Daniel of Ray’s and the impact of receiving his first tattoo, he committed himself to pursuing authenticity and excellence in the craft.

After completing a tattoo school program, he continued to refine his skills through dedicated self-study and hands-on experience. In 2024, he passed a highly competitive selection process and began his apprenticeship under Daniel, making his professional debut later that year.

While particularly skilled in realism and black-and-grey tattooing, HOKUTO continues to explore and develop his own artistic style. He strives to create tattoos that quietly accompany and enrich the lives of those who wear them—timeless works that leave a lasting impression.

Biography

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Biography

Although I wanted to make a career out of something I loved, I chose not to pursue becoming an illustrator or manga artist because tattoos were just so cool to me. I first became interested in tattoos when I was in high school. The thought of getting one someday was always in my mind, and then one day, I met Daniel from Ray’s. The first tattoo I received stunned me to my core, and I knew I wanted to become an amazing tattoo artist myself.

That was the moment my path was set on tattooing. If I were to become a tattoo artist, I wanted Daniel as my mentor, without question. I started by enrolling in tattoo school, and on the final day of the course, the intense passion I’d held in my heart spilled over. I went directly to Daniel, expressing my desire to become a tattoo artist and asking to become his apprentice formally. While he acknowledged my passion, he told me I needed to bring something tangible to prove my efforts. This was his response to me, Hokuto, at that time.

I immediately started drawing intensively, teaching myself tattooing and even practicing on the skin of family and friends.

Later, I ordered script tattoos on both arms at Ray’s, offering my skin to get a sense of the kind of work artists of my generation were producing there. Inspired and motivated by the advice I received, I was able to further refine my drawing skills.

In 2024, Hokuto passed the rigorous apprenticeship selection process and proudly became Daniel’s apprentice. That autumn, I made my debut as an artist.

I specialize in realistic designs and black-and-gray styles, always striving to improve, with Daniel as my ultimate goal. I aim to become a tattoo artist whose work can instantly be recognized as Hokuto’s at a glance, tirelessly working toward that each day.

Through my work, I want to bring brightness to people’s lives! My goal as a tattoo artist is to be a memorable, supporting character in everyone’s life. I aim to provide tattoos that enhance each person’s life, catering to individual needs.

Thank you for your support!