The Journey of a Street Pop Art Tattoo Artist: John Eric Bautista Basilio
Born in Quezon City, Philippines, John Eric Bautista Basilio, now 34, had a humble beginning. Growing up in a poor family, his early life was unremarkable. Like many Filipino children, he was a mischievous kid, fond of computer games, music, and sports. He played the guitar in his school band and, being tall, enjoyed basketball. However, financial struggles led him to quit school early, taking on a job as a timekeeper at a construction firm at just 16. Despite these challenges, his natural inclination toward the arts and creativity would eventually guide him toward a future he never expected.
Artistry in the Family
Art was not foreign to John’s family. His father was a pioneer airbrush artist, renowned for his work on jeepneys in the Philippines. These iconic public vehicles are often adorned with intricate designs, and John credits his father’s influence for igniting his passion for visual art. Growing up around his father’s creations, John absorbed the essence of creativity from a young age, a gift that would shape his career as a tattoo artist.
From Construction to Ink: The Birth of a Tattoo Artist
John’s entry into the world of tattooing came unexpectedly, thanks to his older brother. At the age of 17, John was introduced to the art of tattooing by his sibling, and they even crafted their own tattoo machines using motors from toy cars. That moment sparked an unwavering dedication, and he hasn’t stopped since. “Now, I realize I’ve been tattooing for half of my life,” John reflects, highlighting the profound journey that has led him to his current success.
Natural Talent and the Path to Mastery
John’s foundation in art made the transition to tattooing smooth. His childhood hobby of drawing evolved into creating tattoos, viewing skin as just another medium. Although tattooing seemed natural at first, he quickly learned that it was much more complex than traditional art forms. Years of learning, practice, and guidance from mentors helped him master the intricacies of the craft, including the science behind tattooing techniques and skin.
A Deeper Passion for Tattooing
While John initially saw tattooing as a way to earn a living, his mindset has since evolved. Today, he is more passionate than ever, driven by a desire to share his knowledge and experience with others. This passion inspired him to lead a tattoo seminar in March 2024, aimed at educating and inspiring up-and-coming tattoo artists. His mission has shifted from merely creating art to fostering the next generation of talent.
Future Growth as an Artist
John has developed a signature style he calls “Street Pop Art,” a fusion of street art and pop art. Influenced by iconic artists such as Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Basquiat, his tattoos are known for their vibrant colors, particularly his signature blue and orange backgrounds. “Anyone who sees my work can immediately tell it’s mine,” John proudly notes, highlighting how his unique color palette distinguishes his tattoos.
Challenges and Triumphs in Tattooing
Mastering human portraits, particularly colored ones, was one of the most challenging aspects of John’s tattoo journey. Portrait tattoos require precision in facial anatomy, contour, and color selection—skills that took John years to perfect. He emphasizes the importance of understanding pigments and skin tones, recognizing that certain hues can be difficult to work with.
Words that Speak: The Importance of Text in His Work
For John, text and quotes are critical elements of his designs, especially in his Street Pop Art tattoos. “They guide the audience in interpreting what the tattoo is about,” he explains. Since his style leans toward abstract, the carefully selected quotes help convey the intended message, adding depth to the visual narrative.
Evolving as an Artist and Tattooist
Looking ahead, John plans to continue evolving by conducting more seminars, which fuels his desire to learn and grow. He is also eager to experiment with advanced tattoo materials, made possible through sponsorships from brands like Emalla Needles and Xtreme Tattoo Inks. With access to high-quality tools, he is confident that his tattoos will continue to improve and evolve, ensuring that his artistic journey remains dynamic and ever-progressing.
Through his innovative style, passion for teaching, and dedication to constant improvement, John Eric Bautista Basilio is not only a tattoo artist but an inspiring figure in the world of tattooing.
