Chasing My Dream of Becoming a Tattoo Artist A Relentless Pursuit

Len Yamada specializes in American traditional tattoo. While studying fashion at Bunka Gakuen University, he was drawn to drawing and spent his days painting on clothes. One day, he discovered a book by Sailor Jerry, the pioneer of old-school American tattooing, and immediately felt a connection. Soon after, he dropped out of school, determined to become a tattoo artist. Starting with an inexpensive tattoo machine, he worked during the day at a local restaurant in Shimokitazawa and tattooed at night, thanks to the support of the restaurant’s owner.

Yamada took a working holiday in Canada to be close to the U.S. and knocked on the doors of various tattoo studios until one hired him. He tattooed there for a year, all self-taught. “The tattoo artist who did my first tattoo told me I could be self-taught too. I kept drawing and using the machine, carving many tattoos without hesitation. I was fortunate to have friends willing to let me tattoo them. I wanted to take the shortest path to becoming a tattoo artist, and gaining my parents’ approval was crucial. Quitting college and starting my own tattooing journey during a time when tattoos weren’t widely accepted made me feel as if my parents had disowned me. I just wanted to make a living as soon as possible to not let them worry,” he reflects.

One year later returning to Japan, he opened his own studio, “TATTOO STUDIO YAMADA” and now employs apprentices and staff. His studio operates differently than most; he emphasizes teaching policy and etiquette while encouraging artists to focus on their individual styles, each specializing in different tattoo genres. He doesn’t take on every customer request and doesn’t exclusively specialize in American traditional tattoo.

“I believe it’s essential to adhere to the style you love most. I appreciate American traditional tattoo and motorcycles. Clients come to me for tattoos that reflect shared interests. Building a connection through tattoos and establishing a deep relationship with clients are vital. Whenever they see their tattoo, they’ll remember the atmosphere in which it was done and our conversations. I let the artists in my studio pursue their passions, asking them to consider what they need right now.”

His first studio caters to a diverse clientele, many of whom are first-time tattoo seekers. In contrast, his newly opened second studio, “Born Losers,” aims to convey the depth and history of tattoo culture. This dual approach, offering options for both beginners and those seeking a deeper tattoo experience, is unique to Yamada’s philosophy.

No Half Measures Once I Decide to Do Something, I Give It My All

Yamada, who continually pursues his passions, wears the iconic “DW-5600C” G-SHOCK as his favorite watch. His love for G-SHOCK dates back to when he decided to become a tattoo artist. Working as a painter by day, a senior colleague gifted him a used G-SHOCK, emphasizing the importance of being time-conscious in his work. “I was thrilled to receive it; it felt like proof of my craft. I wore it higher on my arm so it wouldn’t be hidden by my painting gloves. On my way home, I’d clean my senior’s G-SHOCK, covered in paint, just enough for him to see the time. If I could collaborate with G-SHOCK now, I’d probably design one splattered with paint (laughs).”

Looking ahead, Yamada plans to spend a few years in Los Angeles, eager to immerse himself in the environment of renowned tattoo artists whose names have reached Japan. “What awaits me in LA, the birthplace of the American traditional tattoo I admire? What experiences and perspectives will I gain? I know I need to go now, as there are things I won’t understand unless I’m there.” What drives his dedication to tattooing?

“I don’t have a clear vision of what kind of tattoo artist I want to be in the future, but I know it has to be this way. I’m not just a tattoo artist; I’m also an apparel artist and a YouTuber, pursuing what I love. My father taught me, ‘When you want to do something, do it fully. When you don’t want to, don’t do it.’ This lesson has stuck with me since childhood. So, I avoid doing things half-heartedly. I work hard and play hard, making sure to clearly define when to work and when to play.”

This mindset has fueled Yamada’s passion for tattooing as he prepares to move to Los Angeles after establishing two studios in Tokyo.

Photography. IBUKI
Interview & Text. Ryo Tajima
Edit. Yutaro Okamoto _THOUSAND

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Len Yamada

Born in 1995 in Fukushima Prefecture, is a tattoo artist with two studios in Harajuku: “TATTOO STUDIO YAMADA” and “Born Losers.” He also creates original apparel and runs the YouTube channel “OMOSSY CHANNEL.”

Instagram. @len.5