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Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Delacroix are just a few of the great French artists. The work of these men have moved contless others and we know of another to add to that list. A Frenchman himself and currently living in Tampere, Finland, 40 years old Alban Essex has been deeply involved in the tattoo industry for eighteen years.

 

From a family of artists, he got his first tattoo at 18 and it dawned on him that there were more options when it came to expressing his own artistic genius. It amazed him that he could create works that could be both immortal and ephemeral at the same time. Add in the fact that tattoos become an intimate part of his customers' lives and there was no questions of the path he was to take.

 

His journey led him to artists such as Florence Amblard, and other greats who proved to be mentor, guide and teachers as he took those first steps. Tattoo artists , such as Jeff Gogue, and others who delve into the world of sharp lining , fat lining , fine lining tattoos have been an inspiration to Alban. But those in the industry ae not the only influence that have touched him. Music, art , peopleand life itself -good or bad- are all muses to his creativity.

No-one's life is perfect but it's those hurdles that make us what we are. For Alban, he learned perseverance, humility, and patience. It taught on him how important his family is and to be conscientious and responsible. All of his shows in the exquisite maturity of his work and in his philosophy on life.

 

Alban is also down to earth guy who enjoy music ( he also plays some instruments) and sharing a beer with friends and family. Look beyond that and yo find an even deeper side to him. Developing his mind and body using meditation and sports gives him the mental and physical balance he needs.

It is his hope that he can help show people that tattoos a spiritual and soulful art.

 

Introspective, respectful, and non-judgmental are all good reasons for getting a tattoo from him. An even better one, in his word - « and I don't hurt so much !!! » Yes, a sense of humor is another of what makes him what he is.

 

While he does work in the town of Tampere , Finland, expect to see his work expand across the globe. Germany, Italy, and other place he visits- watch out ! You're in for a treat.

 

-B.A. Fegles « Central City Ink magazine »