Tattoo Age Season 1 Episode 2 Mike Rubendall's Japanese-Style Tattoos

In the second episode of Tattoo Age season 1, viewers are introduced to Mike Rubendall, a highly regarded tattoo artist known for his Japanese-style tattoos. The episode begins with Rubendall discussing his career path and how he arrived at his current style of tattooing. He explains that he grew up in Long Island, NY and began his career as a graphic designer.

Rubendall's love for Japanese culture, specifically samurai and geishas, drew him towards Japanese-style tattoos. He began studying the techniques and styles of traditional Japanese tattooing and eventually found an apprenticeship under renowned tattoo artist, Tom Yak. Yak taught Rubendall the art of tebori, which is a traditional Japanese tattooing technique that involves hand-poking the ink into the skin. Rubendall then took what he learned from Yak and developed his own unique style of tattooing.

Throughout the episode, Rubendall tattoos several clients with his Japanese-style designs. One client, a woman named Lisa, is getting a full back piece that depicts a geisha. Rubendall explains the significance of the geisha in Japanese culture and how he incorporated certain aspects of Lisa's personality into the design. Another client, a man named Chris, is getting a koi fish tattooed on his arm. Rubendall talks about the symbolism of the koi fish in Japanese culture and how he likes to incorporate movement into his designs.

In addition to showcasing Rubendall's tattooing process, the episode also delves into his personal life. Viewers meet Rubendall's wife, who is also a tattoo artist, and learn about how they balance their personal and professional lives. Rubendall also talks about his past struggles with alcoholism and how getting sober has positively impacted his tattooing career.

Throughout the episode, Rubendall's dedication to his craft and passion for Japanese culture shines through. Viewers get an inside look at the process behind Japanese-style tattoos and the amount of thought and detail that goes into each design. The episode ends with Rubendall reflecting on how far he has come in his career and how grateful he is for the opportunities he has had.

Overall, Tattoo Age season 1 episode 2 is a fascinating look into the world of Japanese-style tattooing and the career of one of its most talented artists. Rubendall's story is inspiring and his dedication to his craft is admirable. Viewers who are interested in tattoo culture or Japanese history and culture will find this episode particularly interesting.