Q&A with Manny Lebowski, tattoo artist:
What’s your name, studio name, location, and how long have you been tattooing?
My name is Manny, I am a tattoo artist and musician from Sevilla, Spain. After 8 years tattooing, I finally opened my own studio in Castilleja De La Cuesta, my hometown, very close to Sevilla. Name of the studio is "Ornare", which means "ornament" in latin.
What got you into tattooing?
Nothing so special, I guess like everyone that enjoys drawing as a daily routine since childhood can easily get into these kind of works. I choosed tattoo after quiting the public graphic design career in Seville. I just spent 2 months in there. I had a very strong feeling, I wasn't sure if I could be happy at the end of those 4 years of studies.
Did you start off as an apprentice? If so, what was that like?
I started at home, like many people, but not for a long time. After 4 months, the studio where I got my firsts tattoos offered me to join the team as an apprentice. So, I became a freelance since I was 19, kind of crazy because all my friends were starting the careers and I was super confused by then. But I was focused 100% on my decision, there were good and bad moments, I guess just like everyone else though.
When you were starting out, were you inspired by other artists?
I followed a lot of artists from Insta, but I am happy that by that moment, I was surrounded by great local artists with good technique.
Did you work in other mediums first or go straight to tattoos?
Basically graphite and digital art.
Do you work in other mediums now?
I am currently studying Ikenaga Yasunari creative process, he uses traditional japanese materials and mediums for his stunning works on linen.
Do you have a specific niche or style that you specialize in?
I am actually a polivalent tattooer, but I specialize in ornamental works.
How do you handle the pressure of knowing that when tattooing, it’s permanent…there’s no “undo” button.
Patience, respect and compromise! I try to activate all my concentration in every work, and If I am not sure about something, I am always honest with the client, even if that means to cancel the appointment that day.
Some tattoo styles seem to come and go, is there one style that’s gone away that you miss?
Not actually, I am more into good techniques than tattoo styles. I would love to see more solid tattoos in my city!
Do you prefer clients who come with a finished idea, or ones who give you a vague concept and let you run with it? Do most clients give you freedom to be creative?
I like when clients come with confident ideas, it does not matter if it's a very developed design, a sketch concept or just an empty paper.
You’ve probably heard a lot of back-stories “behind the tattoo”, is there one story about a tattoo that you’ve done that’s stuck with you?
I could write an entire book!
Aside from that story, do you have a favorite tattoo that you’ve done?
I am still working on several cool projects, so I guess I will let you know in a few years ;)
Aside from the actual drawing, what’s a skill a tattoo artist needs that people don't realize? What challenges do tattoo artists face?
Be open, patience and respectful for the clients, the old tattooist and the new ones. Just be as kind as possible and humble. Do not rush, everything works out at some point if you don't stop.
Please follow Manny on Instagram and visit OrnareTattoo.com
