RON SMITH
ABOUT
Born in Victoria and raised on Salt Spring Island, BC, I have called Vancouver home for the past 20 years. I started tattooing 15 years ago, following two formative years in art school. The lessons I learned there—design and composition, color theory, and a critical eye for continuous improvement—have been invaluable in shaping my career. I have devoted my entire professional life to tattooing in Vancouver, evolving my craft and honing my skills.
Over the past seven years, I have found my true passion and primarily focus on the intricate and challenging Japanese style of tattooing. This style resonates deeply with me, offering endless opportunities for artistic growth, personal expression and style by merging this classic and timeless theses with my own vision and interpretation.
While I specialize in large-scale pieces like leg sleeves, arm sleeves, and back pieces, I am always excited to take on any project, big or small.
INSPIRATION
My creative inspiration is drawn primarily from human endeavors. Art, architecture, music, literature, film, and mythology fuel my imagination. Unlike many artists who find their muse in nature, I am invigorated almost purely by the rich history of human creation. The pulse of the city—the bustling streets, the vibrant culture, and the dynamic interplay of history and innovation.
Nature, for me, is a place to recharge rather than a source of artistic inspiration. Creating timeless art is in my opinion the most powerful and profound thing an artist can do, in any practise or medium. This is why I am so drawn to Japanese tattooing. It’s never trendy, never gets old or goes out of style.
My favorite art form outside of tattooing is abstract expressionism, which I consider the pinnacle of artistic expression. The ability to convey profound emotions and stories through non-representational images is something I deeply admire. It is also timeless by nature. A Rothko will never look like last years popular thing.
Through my work, I aim to leave a lasting mark, honoring the legacy of human creativity and contributing to the ongoing tapestry of self-expression.
VISION
My vision as a tattoo artist is to create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that resonate with both me and my clients. Whether a tattoo carries deep personal meaning or is simply a design that speaks to someone visually, I believe both are equally valid.
Art does not always require justification; its value can lie in its beauty and aesthetic alone. However, when a tattoo holds significant meaning for a client, it adds an extra layer of depth to the process. I value the consultation phase, where I get to know my clients, discuss their ideas, and understand what their tattoo signifies to them. Many of my clients return for multiple projects, a testament to the trust they place in me.
It is an honor to create these permanent works of art, helping people feel more like themselves through the power of artistic self-expression.
