A Trial of Ink: Tattoo Artist Polyc Challenges the Norms in Korea

A Trial of Ink: Tattoo Artist Polyc Challenges the Norms in Korea

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In an exclusive interview, Polyc dives deeper into his motivation behind his career and his future ventures

There are two sides of the spectrum when it comes to the topic of tattoos: one sits comfortably with the idea of self-expression and tattoos being a form of art, while the other regards it as a sign of tainting one’s skin, or in another culture like Korea, a symbol for gangsters. While beliefs and ideologies can’t be seen as wholly right and wrong, there is no shame in challenging certain ideas in order to open uncomfortable, yet necessary, conversations. 

Though the Philippines is relatively more open to one attaining tattoos, we can’t deny the ongoing negative criticism that comes along with it—an occurrence that is experienced more often than not in Korea. But when passion and purpose collide, a person can become unstoppable regardless of the disapproval. 

A total of nine years of being in the tattoo scene, Korean tattoo artist Sang-jin Lee, more commonly known as Polyc, continues to advocate a much lighter and positive idea of tattoos on a global scale through the medium of fashion. And in this exclusive interview, the leading tattoo artist goes back to his roots and exploration in his recently launched fashion line, POLYC.

Reeling back to the start of it all, Polyc has always been interested in the arts. Whether it may be in the form of paintings or simple sketches, he already knew at an early age that it made sense for his career to be in the artistic path. As he continued on with his drawings, the thought of having his works finished as tattoos gave him a wholesome feeling—it made him happy. And the rest was history. 

But when one pursues a career in the arts, one can only expect such harsh criticism, especially those that don’t adhere to the norms. Over the years, Polyc continues headstrong as he reminds himself of the true motivation of his career—to change the negative image about tattoos not just in Korea, but also globally. 

“From my works, I try to originate and combine my drawings with art so it can show that tattoos are also a form of art.”

Polyc

Honing a certain style comes from years of curiosity in creativity and willingness to experiment on various art styles. And when looking at his works, we can’t deny the uniqueness of his style, which is reminiscent of his childhood when he would cut off colored paper in various shapes to form his own artwork. 

In his own words, he explained it as a combination of polygon art and cubism, which he wittily used for his name, Polyc. His use of both artistic movements displayed a three-dimensional space, a style that plays around with perspectives. With his combination of shadows and highlights, as well as his use of vibrant colors inspired by daily life and nature, Polyc crafted a style that showcased art on skin. 

“I started pursuing this style since everyone has a different point of view. I thought about what it would be like to interpret and express things in various ways, and show them to my guests from diverse perspectives through the arrangement of colors and shapes.”

Polyc


One of his clients is actually none other than Arci Muñoz. An avid traveler and visitor of South Korea, the Filipina actress made time to get her mini tattoo done in Polyc’s signature colorful polygon art style.

In his effort to change the concept of tattoos in Korean culture, Polyc ventures into another form of art that is welcomed by many—fashion. Recently launching his own fashion brand, POLYC, the tattooist is able to express a new side of his artistry that also explores perspectives, similar to his tattoos. 

Visually minimal and sophisticated, the fashion brand blurs the line of age and gender. It’s inclusive to many with its clean cuts and sleek designs, and the collection is both stylish and comfortable without losing its sense of luxury. 

“I have always wanted to make luxurious but comfortable clothes for everyone, including all genders and ages”

Polyc

A personal favorite and popular pick in his collection is his Unisex P logo set. He recalls the time of him modifying the design with a close friend and client of his, Jungkook of BTS, and his advice to play around with various fittings in some parts. The collection itself had a few tweaks along the way, but there is no doubt that the Unisex P logo set became a staple. 

Seeing things on a bigger scale, his fashion brand is an extension of his initiative. Fashion being a form of art that is acceptable, Polyc utilized his identity as a tattoo artist in his designs in hopes for people to understand tattoos with ease.

Just like every art form, there is always a point of self-expression from the artist, a sentiment Polyc recognizes most when he is with his clients. It’s an intimate moment in his work as he combines his artistry and his client’s individuality. For him, his designs become meaningful illustrations that reflect his clients happiness.

“My goal is to create designs that would never be forgotten and [that] my customers would not regret visiting me. I think that is what my job and my self-expression is about.”

Polyc

Certain concepts and norms can be viewed with a positive light, a practice that Polyc continues to do so as he ventures further into his career. Aside from tattoos being viewed as an art form by many enthusiasts, it is also a form of self-love that is so unique and personal—it’s a part of their identity they get to carry with confidence. 

“Tattoos can be the tool that covers up wounds for some people, give confidence and engrave precious memories that the customers would never forget. This work gave me so many nice memories.”

Polyc

Photos from POLYC

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