Having a college degree in multimedia design and becoming a UI/UX designer, Ehyang was dissatisfied with corporate work and departed the industry to complete an apprenticeship at Sol’s Tattoo Academy in South Korea. A new vocation that grants her the autonomy to design her images and allows others to wear them has proven to be significantly more exhilarating. The tattoos of Ehyang are conceptualized and drafted digitally on an iPad, with the client having an advanced preview. She draws inspiration for her 3RL or single-needle designs from the Han River near Seoul and Korean Dancheong symbols and patterns. Her small, intricately lined works of color and black ink are adorned with everything from gleaming mandalas to upbeat wildlife.
Above: A painterly dragon with cherry blossoms, a tattoo by Ehyang.
A motif reminiscent of a mandala.
You have done guest spots in Canada, Australia, and Singapore. Where do you dream of guest tattooing one day?
I want to go to Europe, especially Paris. I heard that Paris is very pretty and there are many things to see. I also want to go to Seattle, Los Angeles, and New York.
The glittering fox tattoo by Ehyang also features leaves.
You are known for tattooing dragons and foxes. What else would you like to do in the future that is a different subject matter?
I want to combine traditional Korean Norigae [a decorative pendant] with animals. Working on various topics, such as Norigae and animals, will be fun.
Many of her art pieces are like pendants of jewelry.
Your representation of animal tattoos is already more ornamental than realistic.
I think each person’s personality is the tattoo genre itself. Since so many artists are good at realism, I decided to do a decorative and ornamental-like style, which makes my personality come true in the work.
Inspired by Korean Doncheong symbols.
Does your work typically necessitate touch-ups?
I use fine lines so it can look blurry over time. I like that kind of naturalness [of tattoo aging]. For those who like such naturalness, like me, we don’t touch up, but for those who want it to stay sharper, we do touch-ups.
An additional whimsical fox is rendered in black ink.
On average, how long does it take you to create a tattoo?
It usually takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the client’s skin condition and stencil time.
The Han River as seen by Ehyang.
How has the Han River inspired you?
The Han River has a well-established space with restaurants and more. I can see Seoul’s city skyline from Ichon Hangang Park (near the river). I usually sit, watch the night view, and organize my thoughts. The flow of water, waves, surroundings, stars shining in the night sky, and various emotions and moments of people visiting the Han River all affect my art. These inspirations help imbue my work with dynamic, beautiful elements and shiny little things.
Her customers frequently request cat imagery.
Aside from natural surroundings. Do you have any pets?
My cat’s name is Jang Yeoreum (Summer Jang), and it is my mother’s last name.
Does your mother like your cat?
Of course. All my family members like my cat!
Equilibrium is exemplified by the long-tailed butterfly goldfish.
Do you contribute to any animal shelters?
I donate to a large organization called @nabiya.2007, a cat shelter and a non-profit voluntary organization. There are times when I donate funds, and there are times when I donate the sand needed for cat litter boxes.
Photos © Ehyang