KRISTJAN OLSON TATTOO AND FINE ARTIST IN SAN DIEGO

Background and Experience

My tattoo journey began at the very young age of 16. My friends and I were gaining interest in tattoos and we made the irresponsible decision of buying equipment wherever we could to figure out how it worked. After high school and only a little bit of exposure to tattooing as well as the industry, I attended the University of Washington for two years, exploring various interests that ultimately led me to the realization that my true ambition was learning to tattoo.

After my time in Seattle, I moved home to Vancouver Washington with the hopes of finding a real apprenticeship. This proved to be much more difficult than I had thought, mainly due to a lack of decent shops in the area, however I had a degree of competency that helped me gain the support of some professionals in the area. Eventually I ended up in Bellingham, Washington where I landed my first job as a professional at Old School Tattoo. I started very slowly while also doing some apprentice duties around the shop as I had much to learn and still needed to earn it. After 2 years in Bellingham I moved to San Diego , where I spent two years at Dimora Tattoo, immersing myself in the vibrant local culture and honing my craft.

Returning to Seattle, I had the privilege of working at Slave to the Needle for six fulfilling years. This time was crucial in my development as it allowed me to collaborate with some of the best artists in the industry, learn from their techniques, and refine my own style. This was also the beginning of what would be taking larger, multi-session projects and the realization that my main interest was the Japanese style. In addition to tattooing, I had always had a love for and an interest in fine art, so I decided to enroll in some art classes at settle central college to further develop my drawing and painting abilities. These two years quickly proved to be the most valuable and worthwhile years in my entire career.

In 2019, I made my way back to San Diego and joined the talented team at Remington Tattoo. Here, I’ve continued to grow and refine my artistry, pushing my creative boundaries and developing my own style of Japanese tattooing, while also continuing to work in other traditional styles including black and grey, illustrative, and American traditional. Along with tattooing, I have began to develop a catalog of fine art works, mainly in the medium of oil painting. Pursuing both tattooing and painting together has helped me put forth my own hybrid style, one constantly influencing the other.

My primary focus is Japanese-style tattooing, a rich tradition that combines intricate designs with deep cultural significance. However, I also enjoy American traditional and black and grey/illustrative styles. The diverse training environment I experienced taught me the importance of versatility, allowing me to adapt and create across various styles. I believe that each tattoo should reflect the individual’s vision, and I strive to bring that vision to life with every piece I create.

In my work, I often draw inspiration from nature, mythology, and personal stories. I take pride in collaborating closely with my clients to ensure their ideas are represented authentically. Each tattoo becomes a reflection of their journey, and I see it as an honor to be a part of that.

At the heart of my work is an unwavering commitment to my clients. I firmly believe that tattooing is nothing without their satisfaction and happiness. Creating a welcoming and comfortable environment throughout the process is my top priority. I emphasize understanding my clients' visions and ensuring they feel heard and valued.

I approach each tattoo as a collaborative effort, where open communication is vital. I take the time to discuss ideas, concepts, and any concerns my clients may have. This not only helps build trust but also creates a sense of partnership in the creative process.

Additionally, I maintain a strict commitment to safety, cleanliness, and using high-quality materials to deliver exceptional results. My studio adheres to all health regulations, ensuring that my clients can feel confident and secure during their tattoo experience.

San Diego boasts a thriving tattoo community that continually inspires me. The city is a melting pot of cultures and artistic expression, and I am grateful to be part of this vibrant scene. The diverse clientele and rich artistic environment allow me to push my creative boundaries and grow as an artist.

I also appreciate the sense of camaraderie among local tattoo artists. Collaborating with talented peers and participating in community events not only strengthens our craft but also fosters a supportive environment for all artists and clients alike.

I invite you to explore my portfolio, which showcases a selection of my favorite pieces that reflect my passion and dedication to the craft. The portfolio includes a mix of styles, each telling its own story and capturing the essence of my clients' visions.

Don’t just take my word for it—check out the testimonials from my clients, which highlight the collaborative and fulfilling experiences we share throughout the tattooing process. Their words motivate me to continue striving for excellence and remind me of the impact that art can have on individuals.

If you’re ready to bring your tattoo vision to life or have any questions, I’d love to hear from you! Feel free to reach out for consultations or connect with me on social media. I’m here to guide you through the tattoo journey and help you create a piece that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Thank you for taking the time to explore my work. I’m always excited to meet new clients and create beautiful art together that they can carry with them for a lifetime. Your tattoo is not just a piece of art; it's a part of your story, and I am honored to be entrusted with that.