21 Questions with Jeff Kozan: Insights from a Veteran Tattoo Artist at Vatican Tattoo

Posted December 4, 2024

Jeff Kozan – Vatican Tattoo

Discover the insights and experiences of Jeff Kozan, a skilled tattoo artist with over two decades of expertise at Vatican Tattoo.

This Q&A originally appeared in The Atlantic Current, showcasing Jeff’s journey and philosophy in the art of tattooing.

How long have you been tattooing?
21 years.
What’s your favorite style of tattoo?
Japanese and American traditional.
How old were you when you got your first tattoo?
15 (definitely below legal age).
Do you have a least favorite tattoo on yourself?
Not really, no.
Colored ink or black ink?
Both work well for my style.

What is the most trendy tattoo right now?
Micro-fine line tattoos. They’re a bad idea, all around.
Where is the most painful spot to get a tattoo?
It varies. For example, torso or armpit can be tough.
Strangest place you’ve ever tattooed someone?
Use your imagination. Haha.
What are your workday essentials?
Good tunes and my machines keep me focused.
What keeps you going through a long session?
Knowing the final outcome is near motivates me.

What style/tattoo will you NOT do?
Color realism (ages horribly) and racist imagery. Don’t play those.
Do you listen to music while you work? What kind?
Old punk, reggae, classic country, southern rock. Anything but rap, honestly.
Can you describe your ideal client?
Hard-working and loyal. They understand time, pain, and cost, and arrive on time.
Have you ever had to cover up a name tattoo?
Dozens, too many to count. It’s job security!
Who is your favorite tattoo artist or one you look up to?
Chris Garver, Filip Leu, Henning Jorgensen. Also, many who’ve passed.

Tips for readers getting their first tattoo?
Check portfolios! Quality and consistent line work matter most. Tattoos are forever! Avoid trendy choices.
Do you love or hate when people ask for the meaning behind your tattoos?
Neither. I usually ignore that question. It’s personal.
What’s your biggest no-no for tattoo aftercare?
Avoid Tattoo Goo or branded healing creams. They’re snake oil. Keep it clean and lightly moisturize.
Have you done any tattoos on yourself?
Yup.
How would you compare art on skin to art on other media?
Skin ages, unlike shirts or paintings. You must plan how tattoos age with the body. It’s a unique art form.
What’s your favorite tattoo you’ve done?
The next one!