Fine Lines in Black & Grey: An Interview with Joshua Williams

Tattoodo partner Joshua Williams is a dedicated tattoo artist with a passion for black & grey and fine line techniques. Celebrated for his meticulous attention to detail and clean lines, Joshua represents the artistry and craftsmanship we've come to know from our partner studio SANS PATRIE. We caught up with Joshua to talk all things tattooing, and the inspiration that led him on his artistic journey.

Do you remember the first moment you were drawn to art? Are there any important memories that hint at the artist you would become?

I always enjoyed being creative and drawing a lot as a kid but it never really developed into me taking it seriously. My biggest draw to tattooing was in the early 2000s. seeing all my favourite rappers at the time have tattoos & even tattoo artists in the music videos & I recognized it was always the same guy in these videos who I later found out was Mr Cartoon. He was a big inspiration to me back then as it was a way to for me to merge things I like between art music and fashion.

Why were you drawn to tattooing and what made you pick this profession? Who were the tattoo artists you would and still look up to?

I knew after I got my first tattoo & had the whole shop experience that I wanted to pursue tattooing. Growing up I always liked to see Mr Cartoons work, and I’d also say everyone I work with at Sans Patrie studio. We all learn from each other and I get to work around some of my favourite artists. 

Can you talk about your style and how it developed over time?

My style is fine line black & grey, I’d say I started off doing pretty traditional style designs but with a fine line spin on them, and it’s developed more over time as I’ve tried to push my work to be a bit more realistic as I learn more. 

If you are able to pick, which is one of your favorite pieces you have tattooed?

The Jesus piece I've just done on the back of a head. Classic design and good placement.

Many artists have a philosophy about their work or why they create it. What is your artistic philosophy and your goals within it?

For me it’s just about making the cleanest possible tattoos & making sure I’m constantly progressing and trying to evolve as an artist. There’s a lot more to just being a tattoo artist now, as you can more so become a brand and I’d always like to explore more than just tattooing with my art, and showcase other avenues in design and fashion too. 

What are your favorite parts about the tattoo industry and where would you like to see change? How do you feel about the future of it?

I like that the industry & artists are pushing more boundaries within their styles and being more creative with how they show their work.
I’m excited for the future of tattooing. I feel it’s evolving constantly, we’re seeing artists progress a lot faster and I’m always inspired by the creativity within the industry.

Do you have any projects, events, or plans coming up in the future that you’d like to share?

 I’m currently working on a coffee table book from all my travels and guest spots working with other artists/studios and will have some collaborations with brands to come in the future.

Follow Joshua's work, or request a booking with him in London right here.