What is really happening inside tattoo culture right now? In Episode 125 of Chats & Tatts, host Aaron Della Vedova sits down with filmmaker Josh Adams, creator of the Skin Deep docu-series.

Josh brings a unique perspective as both an avid collector and a documentarian capturing the true essence of tattoo shops around the globe. From getting his first tattoo on a pool table at 14 to filming 12 years of rock tours, Josh shares how he transitioned into documenting legends like Tim Hendricks, Mike Rubendall, and 72-year-old London icon George Bone.

Aaron and Josh dive deep into:

Why reality TV exploited and distorted tattoo culture.

How industry saturation is triggering a "cleansing" that weeds out fake artists.

Why analog, human-to-human crafts will always survive the rise of AI and automation.

The emotional value of "shitty" memory tattoos vs. high-art bodysuits.

Key Quote Highlights

On the Value of Imperfect Tattoos:

"Sometimes your shittiest tattoo is your favorite tattoo because it’s way more of a story or a timestamp than just a piece of art." — Josh Adams

On the Creative Freedom of Tattooing:

"All of my work in film was doing something because somebody hired me to do it. But tattooers are so free in terms of what they actually get to do and how they express themselves." — Josh Adams

On the Industry "Cleansing":

"I would say to anyone out there thinking about coming in now: you better really, really love it, because there is no guarantee to a fruitful six-figure financial career anymore." — Aaron Della Vedova

On Market Corrections & Authenticity:

"The oversaturation leads to a correction. The people left are the ones who genuinely love tattooing and couldn't see themselves doing anything else." — Josh Adams

On AI vs. Human Connection:

"Tattoos are extremely analog. We’re talking about blood, needles, and human flesh—it’s about as analog as it gets." — Aaron Della Vedova

On Documenting Living History:

"I created this piece about Tim Hendricks and it felt like a gift to him... something his kids can watch in the future and see their dad telling these stories." — Josh Adams

CONNECT WITH JOSH ADAMS:

Instagram: instagram.com/SkinDeepShow