The Snow Covered Moss

Chicago Rising

2011-10-16T12:17:00.001-07:00

I will be visiting Chicago this upcoming fall. This is my second trip out that direction and I am very excited to spread the Japanese tattoo in such a great studio. I will be working with the great staff at Speakeasy Tattoo. I am currently taking appointments for this trip for booking contact me through horisuzu.com or the booking email horisuzustudio@gmail.comthi

The Ascending Hawk Hides His Claws

2011-08-16T00:10:00.000-07:00

I have been getting messages and requests from people asking where all my new works are? I regret to inform all those waiting for these updates because they will not be coming for some time. I am working on numerous projects and finishing up some old ones. I will be focusing on these projects until their completion. I will continue to post updates on here regarding project progression and perhaps even some snap shots of in progress tattoo work.

Spirit of the Ocean

2011-08-15T23:10:00.000-07:00

My travels have taken me to where solid meets liquid. The ocean has always been a driving force in the american tattoo spirit. perhaps the spirit of the explorers that colonized the americas runs in the veins of all american tattooers. That exploration of new things is something that every artist wants to maintain. Its important to do this in everyday life as well. To be willing to sail off the edge, to take the leap of faith knowing you will make it by the salt of your own worth. Ask yourself "What is my great adventure?" Your next Cape Horn or Artic Circle? Always explore your life with the same spirit of adventure. Life is best lived at sea with ports in between adventures.

As Horimana told me "Keep the Great Traditions Alive" with that I wish you all the Best Health, Wealth and Luck until next time.
Horisuzu-"On the Road"

The Long Awaited Updates

2011-08-15T21:52:00.000-07:00

I know its been a long time coming, I must again apologize for the lack of updates however until someone buys me a mac so that i have a reliable piece of hardware it will continue to be hit or miss on updates. I want to start by thanking everyone that donated and came out to the Immovable Japan Fundraiser it was a successfull event and we raised money for those in need. Since the last update I have been "On the Road" yet again. My first stop was Auburn California to visit my friends at Utopia Tattoo. I had a great week and worked on some great people during my stay.

After California I headed North to Bushido Tattoo In Calgary, Canada. My master flew in from Japan to do some work and take in the lovely sites. I really can not say enough about how hospitiable everyone was and how hard everyone worked to make us all feel comfortable. I enjoyed every minute of my stay from the moment I landed in calgary it was smooth sailing. I want to thank everyone at Bushido and the Bathorys for all of their kindness and for opening up their homes to us.

More on its way from my Travels!!! until next time Best Health, Wealth and Luck at all times,

Horisuzu

MOBILE BLOGGER

2011-04-15T17:09:00.001-07:00

Hello blog readers I have been away for quite some time and for that I apologize. I've had trouble bloging because until now that has required me to be stationary. Stationary is not something I do very often however even that will soon change. Enough of the talk let's start the blog.

First topic Japan. As many of you have seen and heard the central western coast of japan was hit by an eartquake which in turn caused a tsunami which caused wide spread devastation including the damaging of the daiichi nuclear plant. I have been in close contact with those in Japan and have been extremely blessed to find that all those I know are in good health. Which brings me to the troubles in Tokyo. While the nuclear plant has exposed radiation to surrounding areas the levels inside Tokyo are within safe levels and remained safe for all travelers. Tokyo relies heavily on international travel and I have begun to see the city and those in it suffer from the panic. Please help in anyway you can if you can travel to japan do so, enjoy the city gets some ramen and get tattooed. If not donate. Red cross japan is great. For those who don't know how to donate or are not sure who to give to I have put together an art show and fundraiser scheduled for the April 30th in Eugene Oregon. To learn more on how you can donate go to immovablejapan.com

I have 3 blogs. Yes that's not a typo I have 3 blogs. What would an artist need with 3 blogs well I am attempting to use each one for something different. This blog which is my blogspot I will continue to use in the manner I have always used it. My wordpress blog will cover art related projects and peeks at what's going on around the studio. My tumblr blog will be entirety pictures snapped in my everyday movements. I think its safe to say that if you are of fan of this blog that should be enough if not then feel free to delve even deeper into my documentation by visiting horisuzu.wordpress.com and horisuzu.tumblr.com I promise you all more blogging , more tattoo work and more artwork.

From the road I wish you all the best health, wealth and luck,

Horisuzu

Also please check out and donate to immovablejapan.com

Rrandom

2011-03-14T20:53:00.000-07:00

The SIlence is Deafening

2011-01-15T17:39:00.000-08:00

I am still using this blog. I have been in a state of movement that does not allow me to currently use this blog regularly. I will return very soon and blog again.

thank you
Horisuzu

SFO

2010-10-14T08:24:00.000-07:00

Updates

2010-08-15T00:55:00.000-07:00

Yes I know, I have promised you many times that I would not lag on this Blog and yet once again I have left you in the dark.A few things before i continue...

I am working full time at Horisuzu Studio in Portland Orgeon

My hourly rate is $150

I work by Appointment Only

When you message me about tattoo work please do not ask me questions about your final price or how long exactly big projects will take. I can give estimations but there are too many variables to be accurate without design. If you are working with a budget please inform me of this prior then perhaps I can direct you better on what can be done.

I have been working with some very new concepts and coming up with a new approach on the way I do things. I am still working these concepts and ideas out as i have been the last 6 months however I feel that I am almost at a place where I can begin to transform some of these thoughts into rigid principle. I will be opening up my tattoo schedule again and taking on new clients this fall into the coming year, I have noticed that my current appointment style has been resulting in blocks of furious work followed by short bursts of time off. I hope to create a flow that will benefit you the client by giving you a much better experience before, during and after your time in the studio.

I will be in Redding this September 17th-19th and will have a limited edition of 6 original framed and numbered paintings I created soley for sale at this show prices are $50 for 1, $100 for 2 or $250 for all 6. I will also be working this show taking on small one point tattoos done by hand. One tattoo for each day of the convention the price is $300 per tattoo. I will only take one client per day so only 3 openings. After this no more conventions till 2012. Conventions are too much traveling for my new schedule and I want to stay at home for a while.

New updates after I return from Overseas in November

Best health, wealth and luck at all times,

Horisuzu

Rose City

2010-01-08T01:28:00.000-08:00

That is correct, I am moving. After almost 7 years in Central Oregon ,the last 3 at Black Rabbit I have decided to move on. I will be relocating back home to Portland in March . I will be working by appointment only out of a private studio in the cities Pearl District. Even though I will be living in Portland I will be maintaining a regular work schedule at Oxygen Tattoo in Bend http://www.oxygentattoostudio.com .
While I have enjoyed working at Black Rabbit I have made the choice to close the doors so that i can devote more time to my craft. My last day at Black Rabbit will be February 14th. I am honored that Oxygen Tattoo has given me the opportunity to work amongst like minded artists as i continue to make this transition. Thank you for your understanding and continued patronage. For appointment information I can be contacted via email horisuzu@horisuzu.com - Horisuzu

Happy New Year

2010-01-06T02:23:00.000-08:00

Hello to all,
I want to wish everyone a very happy start to their new year. I know I need to post more and I want to I just need to learn how to use all this new technology. There are so many new things in this new year, new studio, new home, new works and new marriage. I will be adding updates one by one as i have time. for now I leave you with the Best wishes.....Also if you are reading this Megan you have 1 day to start the blog or i am going to make it for you.

A few for the road

2009-12-17T00:51:00.000-08:00

I wanted to leave you with a few more images before I leave for Holidays-
So while wandering the streets of Tokyo on one of my off days I managed to wander into a cemetery as the sun was setting. Scary? Not really i have a deep respect for the dead and feel very strongly that others should as well. Now I can attest that the streets of Tokyo are amazingly clean, far cleaner than any other city its size and in my opinion cleaner than most cities a 1/6 of its size. However as i passed this specific grave I noticed a small pile of trash, it seemed as if some businessman in a hurry from one place to the other had eaten his lunch and disposed of it in a very uncouth location. I don't really know why or what compelled me but i had picked up the trash and cleaned the grave site pictured as if second nature. I made it a few steps and felt like I should snap a photo of the grave as more of a reminder to myself of the act i committed and the feelings accompanied with it.
beauty is not seeing all of an object. In many ways a small glimpse of an object gives it more appeal like a small glimpse of a full body suit peaking out from underneath a suit sleeve.

kamakura

Tebori

I perfect metaphor for wintertime.

Celebration

2009-12-16T23:50:00.000-08:00

I was leafing through some old photos and found this photo from the opening party of my first studio Black Rabbit. I remember the night pretty vividly, I never imagined that I would ever make it to a point where i could open my own studio. Why I thought that i don't really know, I do know however that I did it and now almost 3 years later its still going. As I have mentioned in previous blogs I have had a strong desire to shift my focus and system of tattooing to better accommodate not only my style of tattooing but my clients needs as well. About 4 months ago I began looking for studio space in Portland about 3 hours by car from my current residence in Bend. I quickly found a space and began working on it in hopes of opening a new studio there, however after a 2 month period i realized that the specific space did not accommodate the needs i had so I waited for the right place to reveal itself to me, and a month later it did in a space 4 stories up and one block over. I heard about a space that had recently come available and once i saw it I knew that was what I had been looking for. Since then I have been working on the space feverishly and I will officially be opening it in the coming year. I will try to reaffirm my commitment to this blog and post photos when possible. I wish you all health, wealth and luck at all times-Horisuzu

The real reason my page is black

2009-12-05T04:12:00.000-08:00

“As noted, an all white web page uses about 74 watts to display, while an all black page uses only 59 watts. I thought I would do a little math and see what could be saved by moving a high volume site to the black format.

Take at look at Google, who gets about 200 million queries a day. Let’s assume each query is displayed for about 10 seconds; that means Google is running for about 550,000 hours every day on some desktop. Assuming that users run Google in full screen mode, the shift to a black background [on a CRT monitor! mjo] will save a total of 15 (74-59) watts. That turns into a global savings of 8.3 Megawatt-hours per day, or about 3000 Megawatt-hours a year. Now take into account that about 25 percent of the monitors in the world are CRTs, and at 10 cents a kilowatt-hour, that’s $75,000, a goodly amount of energy and dollars for changing a few color codes.”

Keep a Positive Mind

2009-12-05T03:53:00.000-08:00

These are some old shots of a Kiyohime Back that I started. The video below is Mike Ledger a real well known and respected artist.

A breath of air

2009-11-23T23:35:00.000-08:00

So where were we?

2009-11-17T22:25:00.000-08:00

Yokohama Its no Sasebo Burger but good none the less

A must have when your in Bend

It scary when people do this around you

I found this in the lobby of my friends studio, Black Widow in a jar the poor mans shark tank

I like to read books i have about 300 of them

I think you will figure it out

pictures of people posing for pictures are great

Road Trip twins and snakebite

Winter Temple

2009-11-16T23:06:00.000-08:00

I can never really explain to people what winter does to me as an artist. I have tried on many occasions however I can never truly capture the right words. Winter is in a way my temple in that I can not leave it or escape its reach. I am forced to accept its limitations and its rules as if an unruly child in time out. Its cold teaches me to be still and focus. The wind teaches me to put aside the current pain only when I push my mind pass the hardships of now can I enjoy the spoils of the future. The snow is a bitter reminder that another year has passed and rings with the disappointment of past goals unfulfilled. There are many ways to solve one problem and many problem for just one to solve.

Best health, Wealth and Luck at all times,
Horisuzu

BACK FROM THE ROAD

2009-11-12T10:30:00.000-08:00

Back long enough to leave

2009-10-20T02:38:00.001-07:00

Albuquerque, New Mexico-Working at Duke City Ink Portland, Oregon-I continue to be the karaoke founder, I am happy to see that it is catching on among others.Fargo, North Dakota-At my best friends wedding, I had a great time

Im back

2009-10-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

PURIFICATION

2009-09-21T01:05:00.000-07:00

I am sorry to announce that I will not be adding any updates to this blog I know this is sudden however I have been exremely busy and with the current travel and work situation I must focus on my obligations. I will resume my blog October 10th
I would also like to inform everyone of a few things.
My master is currently accepting new clients so I would highly reccomend booking an appointment with him before this oppurtunity is no more.
I will be traveling starting october 21st until November 9th. I will be in the following cities- Redding-Cali
San Jose-Cali
Los Angeles-Cali
Albuquerque-New Mexico
Las Vegas-Neveda
Reno-Neveda
you can contact me directly regarding any appointments.
I will have Higashi books for sale during this trip as well as prints.
I am currently working at both Black Rabbit Tattoo in Bend Oregon and Horisuzu Studio in Portland Oregon.

Thank you,
Horisuzu

WHAT'S IN A NAME?

2009-09-07T11:37:00.000-07:00

What is in a name? I have been receiving questions lately about what my title means and why I have it? I have had people asking me about the meanings of other artists titles.

So in the spirit of doing work for other people I am going to shed a little light on the subject. I'll start with my title and then I will explore a few other titles.

My title (or tattoo name) is Horisuzu. now the first thing you will notice if you follow traditional Japanese tattooing is that many artists have a title that starts in a similar manner with Hori being the prefix and different variations at the end. The Hori part of my title is Japanese for Horu meaning to carve or engrave. While Horu is commonly used to describe the act of carving something such as wood it was adopted by Japanese tattooers namely because many of the first tattooists were also Horishi or the carvers of woodblock prints. This is something that you can research more in depth by checking out a really good book discussing the connection between Japanese tattooing and the Japanese woodblock print artist, the book is available here http://www.horitaka.com . Hori when used in the Japanese tattoo society denotes that an individual is a professional tattoo artist working in the traditional style. While today's translation of what qualifies someone to use this title is obscure at best generally speaking This is used for a traditional practitioner of the craft including the use of Japanese motives and the use of hand tattooing or Tebori.

Now back to my title, the suzu of Horisuzu refers to the Japanese word for small bell. This bell is often associated with shintoism. The bell is explained here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suzu

Therefore when you assemble the two halves of my name you get a rough translation of carving bell.

I will discuss more about some other aspects of titles in future blogs.
Until then I wish you all good health, wealth and luck

Horisuzu

A break of sorts

2009-08-28T22:55:00.000-07:00

sakura

daurma for the new studio

first vistor in the new studio

Refrence photo from Higashi

Working on the new studios floor

Pushing Ahead

2009-08-10T22:48:00.000-07:00

The summer has proved a busy season and while I have remained focused on current projects some delays and alterations have been unavoidable. I try to be very thoughtful of my commitments and because I value the strength of my word I have had a very hard time coming to terms with current situations. Therefore I am sorry to annouce that I have had to push back the release date of my Sketchbook Higashi another month. My deepest apologizes to those of you whom have been waiting for your copies.

I collect Daruma dolls in a sense. To be more precise I like to make numerous goals and use the Daruma as a way to constantly remind me of the tasks at hand. The Daruma pictured here is for the studio in Bend so I had everyone involved fill in a part of the eye. It was an experience I treasured greatly.

More to come....

Updates

2009-08-09T21:01:00.000-07:00

I will be doing a series of posts here in the next 48 hours I hope you will enjoy

Once Again I Bring You FLASHBACKS

2009-08-04T00:11:00.000-07:00

Karaoke-A Passion of mine that all my friends are quick to indulge in.
Dinner-Wow how exciting
I used to blow fire but I have decided to retire that hobby
Neko-This is my Cat but he thinks he is a dog.... I am serious he would bark if he could

More on the way, hopefully new
Horisuzu

Archives 2

2009-07-20T02:36:00.000-07:00

Me and my Finace at my friend Cali's art opening

Oregon Ink Convention

Me and my Pops

Book shopping

The Road Trip Twins

Helping out, Hovering over and Happy Driving

2009-07-15T19:27:00.000-07:00

During a trip to a temple with my Master and the entire family. This picture reminds me of how much a learned during my stays in Japan. Tattooing is something I always wanted to excel at but I never realized that to do this I would need to look inward at my own flaws and faults to improve and advance. I wish I could properly convey this thought process but it is becoming clear that not everyone I attempt to explain this to respects how genuine one must be. It is very easy to go out and look very flashy and put on a fancy show, but for one to truly look inward and attempt to express themselves honestly not trying to fool themselves or others but to be honest, well this is a very hard thing to do.

Tora

Making a Mess

New Cards, because apparently my name is hard to pronounce

And last but not least the story, It has been very hot here in Oregon and we are reported to have a heatwave coming our way. Now the last week has left me worn from the sheer volume of work and the lack of people to handle their end of prior commitments. Last night however was a night of fun as my brother Adam came into town. We enjoy hanging out when hes not working or in the Vortex and I'm not tattooing or handling personal errands. We went over to the home of a close friend and after sitting in what must of been a 110 degree room and watching as my poor friend cleaned up red hot sauce off his white leather couch's. I knew enough was enough. We all have a responsibility to each other to help one another given the right circumstances. Know I was told by my master that money is not the most important thing, we need money to survive but other than that greed sets in. I am by no means a very wealthy man but what i have i give to those whom I feel deserve it, I give to people who want to do better in life. I decided to give to my friend, me and Adam drove down to the store under the guise of getting beer and bought my friend an AC unit. At the store me and Adam discussed some things we would like to change in this world our collective vote was that all people over the age of 80 should not have to pay for anything they need. Food, goods and services including rent and utilities should all be provided for them. I would be willing to give for that cause would you? My friend was very grateful and the next day helped me clean out the inch of settled dust in my home.

Animals, Analytic Philosophy and Adjusting Accordingly

2009-07-11T02:08:00.000-07:00

Here we are yet again my friends, For those of you following this blog I have been trying to keep up with the times to keep you all interested and entertained. Attached are some snapshots from around the studio and my recent visit to Portland.

I have been taking more photos now that I have my new camera I got a Pentax SLR and I love it. I enjoy my time behind the lens but it does not compare to my time behind the needles. My love of Tattooing runs deep. I have been working almost non-stop since my last post and am finally getting a chance to slow down and begin putting into action my new plans. The new schedule was been great and it has allowed my clients the chance to get tattooed on a more regular basis compared to before.

I have been having a very hard time wanting to be involved in my community as a tattoo artist. I love discussion among artists and I truly do love debating the best for for us as a group to move forward and move our industry forward. The problem I have is that I do not feel like being in the public eye. I would prefer to advance in my own tattooing and my own art around the watchful eye of my master. His opinions are vital to me and I use this feedback to push myself even harder than before. A good teacher tells you what is wrong never what is right. If it is right you need no corrections and no praise. I think my dislike of the tattooing community as a whole is this need of praise and need of fame by many tattoo artists. I think that many people look outward always looking for that new machine or new ink that will make their technical skills increase but they miss the most vital piece of that puzzle they don't look inwards. If you want to be better you must be a better person. I know this seems like I may start on a tirade but I am simply saying that being centered on who you are and where you are trying to go is a good thing for someone to do.

I have been cleaning out some of my old drawings and making a commitment to try and finish them within the summers end. if i complete some I will share them on here

More coming soon............

NEW WEBPAGE

2009-06-30T10:24:00.000-07:00

My Master would like me to inform everyone of the new webpage, Please check this site http://www.ryugendo.jp/

Snapshots, Soft Copies and Secret Rooms

2009-06-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Ohayo Gozaimasu,
I wanted to give everyone out there a quick update

I have been reviewing the soft copy of Higashi. I am still at my printers throats to get this thing printed in a timely manner without losing any quality in the process. However I look forward to its release.

I very rarely take photos anymore. The hectic scheduling has made for little time for me to indulge in my hobbies. I worked on the Kiyohime Back yesterday and afterwards decided to take a few snapshots with my new Pentax.

I don't allow anyone but my clients into my work room. I feel like this keeps the experience special and in a way it creates a group bond among my clients when they meet, a sort of filter system for them. They belong to a special group in a way its magical for both them and me as well.

Like I have mentioned in the previous posts I have begun focusing my energy solely on Japanese tattooing and because of this I will begin working a new schedule starting the 1st of July I will be at the studio Friday thru Tuesday. Sunday and Monday I will be in the studio until 6pm all other days until 9pm. On Saturdays I will only take walk-ins no appointments will be made for that day. Thank you so much for bearing with the changes.

As always I wish you all the Best, 彫鈴-HoriSuzu

Daruma Dolls, Directions and Daily Devotion

2009-06-21T22:26:00.000-07:00

Konnichiwa Everyone,

I started this blog in the hopes that I could learn through reflection. I assumed that like a mirror in time my current self would gain insight by reflecting on the writings of my former self. I must admit that I hoped as well that my writings would be followed by someone out there and be a source of inspiration as well. While I am always gaining a great deal by reflecting I am finding it hard to keep this blog interesting for the rest of the world. If I have failed in that sense I apologize but as I stated before I started this blog on a selfish foundation.

On with the show, I love Daruma dolls period. I don't know what started it but I think it might have been the Daruma in the Tokyo studio. I just love collecting them. I like them big , small, wood and metal. If you want to send me any gifts a Daruma doll's the sure bet.

I took a trip this last week to visit a man who has become a very important figure in my development as both an artist and person. Sailor Cam of South Tacoma Tattoo is without a doubt a man whom I am honored to call my friend and mentor. Me and a few of my friends went up to visit him for my birthday, he was as always an amazing host and as always my visit was eye opening. I also managed to squeeze some time in and see my friends Meshay from Sacred Soul in Renton and Don Deaton of Sea Tramp in Portland.

If you look at my old blogs and even some of my newer ones you can tell that staying motivated is my biggest struggle. With my duties as a shop manager, walk in artist and business owner I find less and less time for me to fully focus on Horimono. This has been a problem that has been chipping away at me for a long time and I am currently in the progress of changing the way my studio operates and the way I personally accept clients. Starting this July I will no longer be working on Wednesdays or Thursdays. My new schedule will be Friday through Tuesday.

I have started a few new paintings and studies that I should have more time to focus on with my new schedule. I have attached a line drawing of ascending koi I hope you will all enjoy. I have also started a Kiyohime back tattoo that I wanted to post on here but I have decided against showing it until the back ground and finer details have been committed to skin.

Until our next Blog I wish you all the best.

彫鈴-HoriSuzu

Missing Items, Moving Cars and Making Changes

2009-06-11T07:37:00.000-07:00

Ohayo Gozaimasu,

Today marks an important shift in my focus. I have long attempted to mix both the Traditional Japanese and traditional American studios, this has in part been a selfish attempt on my own part to have two things i enjoy co-exist. To be honest they don't blend and never will. The realization of this fact is not new but the acceptance of this fact was longer coming. I have decided to make an effort to shift the gears and push these elements inside my studio apart only then can my artists and myself grow in the directions we need. I am personally making moves to begin tattooing Japanese traditional imagery exclusively.

In other news, I have had a year marked with many great things and great changes, however it has also been marked by numerous items being taken from me. At the Oregon Tattoo Convention I had a 4'x6' ghost painting I was working on for my master get stolen. I had almost completed the painting so this was very unsettling however I assume that it will make its way back to me if it is meant to. I did a skateboard painting as a donation for a new skate park here in Bend, My skateboard was auctioned off and money received however as of now the place where the park was to be built sits idle and the profits that I contributed seem to have gone missing. Last but not least some equipment was taken out of my studio while it was under the care of a former counter helper.

I am sad to announce that this years Redding Tattoo Convention will not be. This was an especially sad announcement for me being as this was to be my last convention for some time. The promoter of this event felt that he did not want to put on a second rate show and at the current time the economic climate would not support a show to the caliber that he would be proud of. For that I express my deep respect for his decision. I have decided then to attend next years Redding convention 2010 and will bring with my a larger body of work than ever before and I will be personally involved in this convention as well.

In other news I did a Collaberation with my finace who is a hair stylist the photo here showcases her talents and mine.

I will be embarking on a few trips this year they are as follows.

I will be in Lakewood Washington June 14th-18th

I will be in Fargo North Dakota October 1st-5th

Last but not least will be my West Coast Road Trip in October-November during this trip I will be in the following cities

Boise-Idaho

Salt Lake City-Utah

Loveland-Colorado

Denver-Colorado

Santa Fe-New Mexico

Albuquerque-New Mexico

Arizona

Las Vegas-Nevada

Palm Springs-California

Los Angeles-California

San Jose-California

Sacramento-California

Redding-California

Grants Pass-Oregon

Eugene-Oregon

I know I know the BOOK!!! I will post some info very soon I promise.

May life give you all the things you wish for,

彫鈴-HoriSuzu

THE WELCOMING OF SPRING

2009-04-07T01:46:00.000-07:00

First I want to wish you all a fruitful spring, I know I have not written in this blog for some time now. For that I offer my apologies. I wish I could say that work has kept me so busy that I was unable to share my life path with others, However If I said that I would be lying. Work has been busy and my obligations to my clients, co-workers and business partners has kept me with a long list of to do's. My reasons for not writing in this blog is that I have not felt that I had much to share.

Enough with the apologies then, let us catch up.

So First Tokyo...........

Since my last writings I have have traveled back to Tokyo. In February I returned to a city that holds my heart and a nation that holds my soul. As always my trip was full on life lessons and life experiences that are irreplaceable. I continued my study under my master, Traveled, and continued research and picture collection for my book. I wanted to share some photos from my trip as well as let you in on what is new and upcoming.

In News, I will be working a Convention in Eugene Oregon April 10-12. This is the first Oregon Tattoo Convention and should prove an interesting event to attend. This will be one of my last conventions for some time. I know this may seem odd since most artists work very hard to be able to attend multiple conventions and while it has been and will be my deep honor to attend these shows I can no longer continue to. Due to current situations in Japan i will begin traveling more frequently to and from Japan every few months if possible. If you are interested in getting tattooed and are unable to come to either the studio here in Oregon or the studio in Tokyo please contact me and i will be happy to refer you to the best qualified artist near you. As always I will reserve space at these shows/guest spots for return clients first before taking any new clients on. Thank you for your understanding and support.

In better news I have restarted a project long forgotten by most but those involved have reformed and renewed commitment to these current projects. Black Rabbit Society is the publishing and photography arm of Black Rabbit Tattoo my studio in Oregon. This group will handle picture collection, proof reading and book assembly for the upcoming book on my master.

We will be releasing a small book titled HIGASHI prior to the release of my masters book. This book is almost near completion and we are currently in the process of finalizing the cover and printing options. This book is similar to a sketchbook with a strong lean towards Japanese imagery. I will post on this blog when we start taking Pre-orders.

Until next time I wish you all the best on whatever road you travel.

彫鈴

Horisuzu

Kinga Shinnen-Happy New Year

2009-01-04T02:21:00.000-08:00

Koban wa,

So a new year is upon us all once again. The last year has been not unlike the ocean tides, there have been ups and downs for us all. I wish you all Health, Happiness and Comfort in this New Year. For me many things have changed and yet many things remain the same. I continue to bear witness to the struggle not only within myself but my surroundings as well. It is said that if a man feels as though he is moving always in a constant forward motion he is either blind or lost. I find that saying funny given that I feel blind and lost with no forward motion. Perhaps I should say that I believe I have gained more Moss than I have lost (see my first post) over this last year.

As this new year sets in I have been confronting issues that weigh heavily on my mind. Devotion is easy in speech but difficult in action, any horishi must agree however in devoting myself to Horimono and my role as deshi under Ryugen Sensei I feel as though I am on the right track, perhaps this new year will be without detours and speed bumps. While that is an unrealistic request it certainly gives me comfort to know that I am being taught by a man who embodies the values of a master horishi. What more can a man ask for but what he has, what more can a man receive but what he has earned.

Now for your update. I will be returning to Japan at the end of this month and I look forward to what will undoubtedly be a life changing visit. I continue to work on the book and while I want to give you all a date for completion I'm afraid I can not do this because even I do not know. I hope to have it completed within the year. The studio remains busy despite the current economic crisis. My Japanese language skills remain rudimentary at best, despite my earnest efforts. I have started a few new paintings one in particular i am hoping to have completed to share with you all before my departure to Japan. Now I must retire and attempt to pick off more moss.

I wish you all a Happy New Year,

Thank You,

彫鈴

Horisuzu

龍元洞

Ryugendö studio

Tokyo, Japan

黒兔

Black Rabbit Tattoo

Bend, Oregon

Update

2008-12-11T21:06:00.000-08:00

Devotion, Delusions and Detours

2008-11-07T23:45:00.000-08:00

2008-09-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

Conventions

2008-09-05T13:11:00.000-07:00

I have received a very good client request at conventions. I would like to thank everyone for your interest in my work, however due to the nature of tattooing by hand there is an issue of time needed to complete the tattoo. I prefer to accomadate all larger tattoos at my studio here in Oregon or our home studio in Japan. If you are interested in getting work done at a convention I request that you do this for one point tattoos that can be completed in one day. I will have a collection of designs with me at the convention for you to look through and to give you ideas of the size and nature of a tattoo i can complete in one day.
Thank you Horisuzu

A fast update

2008-08-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Konnichiwa,

I thought I would give you all a quick update. I am sorry that i have not kept up in this Blog as things settle down this next month I will start again. Here is some new works please enjoy.

Horisuzu

Another sample of the new book

2008-07-16T16:01:00.000-07:00

--------The transfer of information within a family structure is in my opinion a uniquely Japanese theme. This is something that has been interwoven into the lives of most Japanese youth from birth. In my personal view the cultural habit of devotion and giving up ones individual pursuits and supporting the collective allows for the passing of information to be successful in specific regards to the family structure seen in Japanese tattooing. I believe that this offers a more fulfilling and efficient exchange between master and apprentice. This is why for a non-Japanese apprentice they must initially focus on immersion in Japanese culture, history and ethics. Observance and study of everyday life in Japan is also highly suggested.----

---------A deshi will on occasion be given moments of freedom outside of the studio to do as they wish. Given this freedom a deshi can easily fail. If the deshis' spirit is not strong this is a time when freedom can be abused and this allows for the master to see a deshis' true spirit.------
-------This should not be taken on as a facade but as ones true acceptance and devotion to both the master and the family as a collective. Things as simple as making tea become ritualized and are carried out with the utmost seriousness. Simple actions that we here in America would consider unimportant and frivilous in this setting display the performers commitment. This commitment can display in part to the master the practitioners willingness to continue and maintain the traditions inside of Horimono.----------

Samples of the New Book

2008-07-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

Oni, Old ghosts and Overpriced expansion

2008-06-18T21:59:00.000-07:00

Koban wa,

I am trying to remain vigil in my posting on this blog. I have begun working on some art and feel very good about its outcome although I must confess that i have never considered my art of any high regard. It is more the zen like movements of art that make me somewhat calm.

I will finish my Oiwa painting this evening I will pray for her approval of me using her image before i start work tonight. It is very important to honor the Old Ghosts they are very unhappy with any disrespect shown by the living.

I have been working on expanding the studio and making a very private appointment only section that will house all of the tebori work done, this has proven to be more costly than I had originally foreseen but it still remains within reach as of today. I will know more about this the beginning of next week.

I hope these words find you in good times

Mata Ne,

Horisuzu

A sample of the new book

2008-06-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

Tattoo artists the world over are similar is almost every aspect however in japan their exists an uncommon situation in that a tattoo artist who commits himself to an Ichimon or a tattoo linage in any form or shape has the responsibility of promoting and continuing the family traditions, techniques and philosophies regarding horimono. He or she must do this without an ego of themselves. They must put the families interests and well being before their own personal gain and profit. The family exists as a group with all involved giving their all into the collective.

Books, Bitterness, Blood and Bekko

2008-05-30T11:44:00.000-07:00

Ohayo Gozaimasu All of you out there.

It has been 2 weeks since I last wrote in this Blog in part due to work and in part because I am unsure as to wither or not my words are worth conveying.

I thought long and hard last night about things in my life and things in the world around me.
I have had the pleasure to be given the opportunities of a lifetime and I have also been able to see those around me do well in their lives and careers. yesterday brought with it new revelations as my childhood friend is getting married and moving to start a new chapter in his life . My good friend from New Mexico just got the shop he has always wanted he is going to start a new chapter in his career and I am excited to see this. All of the things I have seen come to those around me were deserved and long over due in my mind. In looking at these friends I realized what it is that's really important to me. I am seeing what i deem as sacred and special. I have committed in the past to numerous of things and because of this it made me unable to give my all to any of those projects solely. I have had to cancel or put on hold almost all of the projects that are ongoing. Last week I was given the great honor of being given the chance to write a book chronicling the work and ethics of my Master and in a whole the entire art of horimono. I hope to add to the library available to western readers. I am focusing on this project solely until its completion.

So on to the new things since the last post, I finished the outlining on a sleeve and i thought i would post it on here.

I also visited a koi pond so i attached a photo of one koi that caught my eye. I have always felt partial to koi with black and white coloration.

Earth to Pluto

2008-05-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

So before I go on...Is anyone out there even reading this?

Cleaning, Car rides and Co-Workers

2008-05-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

As always it has been sometime since I've been on this blog. This is due in part to the increasing work schedule at my home studio. I've been pouring more of myself into everyday work than ever before. I spent last night packing for my trip to San Jose to see Mr. Andy Johnson my good friend and sort of personal mentor. The last few days have been a bustle of activity in the studio with my co-worker gone in LA me and the shop helpers took an entire day and focused souley on getting the studio clean for spring. From organizing drawings to replacing floor tiles we did it all. I think that this will be a fresh start for the summer rush.

Namakubi

2008-04-28T16:31:00.000-07:00

My Namakubi print is now available. I put alot of myself into this piece of art and decided to only make 60 prints in total.

You can purchase this print on my website, www.horisuzu.com

In other News I will be leaving for San Jose in the next week and i am looking forward to seeing my good friends and I have started planning the next trip to japan so when I have those dates confirmed i will let everyone know.

Book Cases, Broken Copiers and Severed Heads

2008-04-22T16:53:00.000-07:00

The studio is a bustle of activity today which remains odd since it is my day off. paintings are going up and things being cleaned for springtime. I have been rearranging all of the books in the studio as I have a new bookcase. I finished my Namakubi painting and look forward to getting these prints made. However the Kami conspire against my plot as the establishment that handles my print making is having a technical problem with thier machine. I ate lunch today at my favorite resturant and ended up getting more than my usual Unagi and think I finally have someone to practice my Japanese with. I look forward to tomorrow and what change it brings with it.

Missing The Train

2008-04-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

When I was in Japan I commuted to the studio, to some this would seem a means to an end. It would seem like this would be a pain in the ass but for me it was great. It was little things like that train that i think about the most. When I had no time for anything but my studies was when i was fully focused.

I have started a Namakubi painting this week and hope to finish it by this weekend. I will be doing some prints for sale on my website. I will also be traveling to California this next month. I hope to be traveling again this next year on a more full time schedule. Europe, Japan, pretty much the whole tattoo road trip if possible.

Drawings

2008-04-11T17:05:00.000-07:00

I have been doing drawings every night of designs I said I would share a few of them.

Yurei

2008-04-09T23:16:00.001-07:00

So I have been out of town for the last few days visiting my family, A great time was had by all and I continued to stay steadfast in my drawings completing one a day. I returned to work today with the usual sluggish behavior that sets in after an extended trip in the car. While out of town i realized that my fascination with the macabre was limited mostly to ghost or yurei as it is called in japan. Having Yurei as the main motif in a tattoo remains an exciting subject for me yet carries a certain weight with it. This will be hard to explain in detail using just the typing of black keys on my laptop, In a short of it when tattooing the images of Yurei specifically those of Okiku and Oiwa I believe that there is a strict guideline of dos and donts . I also believe that these guidelines should be observed very closely. Before I will tattoo these images i talk with my client about this very seriously and stress the importance of these images and why i feel these guidelines are so crucial.

We will have to see where this study of yurei takes my art on a whole.

Wanting what one can never attain

2008-03-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

It has been some time since I have been on this blog. My return to work has brought with it more challenges than I recall. The ever changing climate around me stains my calm reserve. I find my self confused as to the mind state of various individuals. Today brought with it countless frustrations and yet still it brought with it countless displays of true respect and friendship. i think that all the stupidity and disrespect is a necessity for without these there counter parts, intelligence and respect would not be so recognizable and appreciated. I am every thankful for the friends I have been given, How lucky I am.

In other news i have been finding places in the studio for all of the great gifts I was given during my trip to Reno. I have been feeling slightly under the weather and am working full time to correct this. Most of this is from my reaction to the cat. I love it but i can not co-exist with it. This has made all parties involved very unhappy.

I hope to make time to paint when I get off tonight. I should make time this after all is a very important part of what I do. When I get some painting complete i will let you all know to view them on my website.

Dewa Mata

Returning Home

2008-03-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

It never really changes does it? Returning home I mean. The adaption we have to other locations and other work situations never changes the feelings we have when we return home.

Yesterday was very long 7 hours in the car alone is not something I like to do but circumsatnces required it. I went to the studio and unpacked the majority of my equipment (I will finish the rest before work tomorrow i hope). I look forward to getting back to work in my home studio, while Reno was a great experience and while I enjoyed my time there immensely there is tsomething to be said about working in an environment designed for you specifically. My clients are very enjoyable and as spring creeps upon us I hope to see those tattoos reemerging like the flowers in bloom.

I spent this morning readjusting to my own home (as I have lived in a casino hotel for the past week and a half) I always need about 2 or 3 days to get settled back in. I did get some great things in reno I found an antique silver encrusted handle that will be very suitble as a new handle for tebori. It needs some work but I hope to find some leisure time this evening to work on it. I also found lots of little things from japan with which I can decorate both my home and studio with although it did dawn on me that while I have alot of art it is frames that i am missing.

Maybe these new objects will bring luck into the studio and house? we will have to see.

Commit to the moment

2008-03-21T19:19:00.000-07:00

I am still in Reno, I have done 2 tattoos so far a Kingyo and Botan both all by tebori. I feel as though I get more satisfaction personally from doing tattoos in this manner. I have enjoyed my time spent here with my friends . Every trip remains a learning experience and one that i attempt to commit to whole heatedly. All of my co-workers have gone back to Oregon and I miss them and my studio very much, I find that these times spent apart allow for me to truly see the value in my friends.

I have been painting again .Between tattooing in the studio and painting while overlooking the Reno skyline i've had time to reflect on my career and the path I wish for it to move in. I sat today in the morning and reflected on the conversation I had with Ryugen Sensei yesterday. I want to achieve a small sense mastery in what I do, maybe mastery is the wrong word. I think the proper word would be proficiency in horimono. Instead of spending time trying to do all types of tattoos I would rather commit to Horimono whole heatedly and push forward on this plane.

I have been talking to other friends and artists around me about possibly limiting my schedule to Japanese tattoos exclusively and am working on finding a happy medium that both I and my clients can be happy with. I already do a heavy amount of Japanese tattoos and after this summer think that my books will reflect this more fully.

I have started looking at Japanese antiques on the mighty ebay (Satan's garage sale) I have been looking for things a want to collect considering that I wont be traveling to japan his year. I have been pleasantly delighted and disappointed by what I've found so far. I will keep looking if I get any good finds i will share them with you.

The Snow Covered Moss

2008-03-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

The Snow Covered Moss.

What an interesting name I have chosen to represent my feelings much like the moss concealed under the snow so are my feelings and desires covered from view by my own insecurities and fears. I hope to uncover this moss over time and study and eventually get to the rock that resides underneath

I have decided to start writing my blog as I have found myself continually inspired by the blog of Horimatsu. I am in Reno for the first time and am finding myself again facing the tide against which i always push. Representing Japan here in the states has remained a tiring yet ever faithful pursuit i find myself in. I think in a way I enjoy the battle. I must enjoy it or else why would I continue in such a brash and consistent manner?

I attended the Lady Luck Tattoo Convention this last weekend and found myself surrounded by like minded individuals and artists. I was very thankful for being given the chance to stand side by side with so many great people. I was confronted for explanations of the Japanese tattoo by those humble and those not so humble. I feel as though this kind of understanding can not be explained as much as it must be experienced. I found myself feeling a bit behind in my personal pursuits however. I feel as though I am not on the path to study I originally pictured myself. This is a compilation of my own faults and not those of others. I am making an effort to increase my original efforts and progress in my studies with unwavering determination.

Perhaps this is a foolish goal but I believe that all Deshi (apprentice) must continually look inward at their faults and address the problems that keep them from accepting information fully. Today while at lunch I was asked to explain what makes a good deshi to an apprentice hopeful. I think I gave him good advice that may lead him to one day find the true answer to his question.

I will write in this every so often and try to convey my feelings with you as well as attempt to uncover the feelings inside of me.