Tattoo Age Season 2 Episode 6 Spiritual Tattooing With Robert Ryan

In episode 6 of Tattoo Age season 2, viewers are introduced to Robert Ryan, a renowned tattoo artist known for his spiritual and literary inspirations. Ryan's spiritual approach to tattooing is showcased through his work, which features a range of Eastern religion and mythological motifs.

Throughout the episode, viewers are taken on a journey through Ryan's life and creative process. The episode begins with Ryan discussing his upbringing in a rural town in upstate New York and his early introduction to punk rock and the tattoo culture of the 1980s. As a teenager, Ryan developed a fascination with the art form, and by the time he was 20, he had moved to New York City to pursue a career in tattooing.

From there, the episode delves into the spiritual inspiration behind Ryan's work. Ryan explains that he draws heavily from Eastern religion and meditative practices, and that his tattoos are intended to create a sense of balance and harmony in his clients' lives.

Viewers are also introduced to some of Ryan's clients, who discuss the powerful impact of his tattoos. One woman, whose back is covered in a tattoo of a Hindu goddess, explains that the tattoo has helped her feel more connected to her spirituality and has given her a sense of inner strength.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to an up-close look at Ryan's artistic process. Ryan uses a traditional hand-poke technique, which involves using a needle attached to a wooden handle to meticulously create each tattoo by hand. Ryan's tattoos are often intricate and detailed, featuring highly stylized depictions of deities, animals, and other symbolic imagery.

In addition to his spiritual work, the episode also delves into Ryan's love of literature. Ryan is an avid reader and collector of rare books, and he often incorporates literary references into his tattoos. For example, one of his clients has a tattoo of a bird with a banner in its beak that reads, "hope is the thing with feathers," a reference to a poem by Emily Dickinson.

Throughout the episode, Ryan's passion for tattooing, spirituality, and literature is palpable. Viewers are treated to a glimpse into the world of a truly unique and inspiring artist, who is deeply committed to creating meaningful, soulful tattoos that have the power to transform his clients' lives.