Byron Velasquez – Tattoo Artist

Recently we had a small conversation with our good friend, cool guy and amazing tattoo artist Byron Velasquez, his main thing are tattoos, but he also a paints, designs and Deejays. His studio, Abstract Black NYC, has seen a lot of body transformations including our own Haru, who was there last summer for a very gratifying experience.. If you ever decide to get some ink on your body, this is the guy you should visit. If you do, tell him we sent you and he'll def give you the VIP treatment.

OS: Tell us about your first tattoo.

BV: My first tattoo was on my chest at 16 years old, way back as a teenager rebelling in the Lower East Side.

OS: What do you love the most about what you do?

BV: What I love about being a tattoo artist... I could come into work with my polka dot underwear and a tie and it will be accepted... I only deal with true colors not faded souls.

OS: What role does music plays in your shop?

BV: Everything is like a beat to the rhythm of my creation..It is needed!..With music came my understanding to capability and imagination.. I dabble in music.. Hobbies save lives.

OS: Some cool guys from the music world have some of your ink on them... Care to name a few?

BV: The Niña, The Pinta and The Santa María... Just playing. That question is always a hard one, because I have famous friends and there's also clients that are huge in there fields and others wouldn't recognize it....I'll throw a few, David la Chapelle, Robi Draco Rosa , Todd Oldham, David Morales, Junior Vasquez... and many more...

OS: What do you say to people who won't get a tattoo for fear of the pain?

BV: If you live in fear then there is no "remedio" for you...

OS: How big of a pussy was Haru when you did his tattoo?

BV: Haru was a trooper and a fiend...kept coming for more.. I think we are talking on other Tattoos...

OS: We're pretty sure that's happening.. Anything else you want to add before we leave you alone?

BV: I want to take this moment to say that I would be interested in tattooing in that beautiful land of yours.. So, any connections.. let's set up ground!

OS: We sure hope we can see that happen soon..

Learn more about Byron and his art  Abstract Black NYC

Listen to Byron's mix Hit Play