go to business school instead.

Yeah do something with retirement pay and benefits and shit.

The best way to begin to learn about tattoos is by getting them. But consider yourself warned, that shit hurts!

Did you mean to say "learn cats?" because it looks like that might be what you're attempting to do in your userpic.

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Hey foks, i don't know what the tattoo scene is like in Mumbai, but that's where Shant is from. i don't think he's trying to be a scratcher, but maybe he's just generally interested in learning more about tattooing and doesn't have access to first hand information or people who can help him learn and understand? i think i remember him saying this in another post he made. so can anyone help him by recommending someone he could go talk to in person? i know there's google and the google button isn't broken, but i think a stellar recommendation from someone on here (if someone has one) would be great.

I agree with almost everything that's been said in response but Robin brings up a really good point that segues into something I've been struggling to put words to. I think the naivete of Shant's question prompts a knee jerk reaction in people. ESPECIALLY among those who have practiced the craft for years/decades. Generally it's a justified response... But in this specific case it may be a bit overkill

Realistically, Dari's advice is the most sound in my opinion. Go get some tattoos. Get acquainted with the culture. If there's no credible tattoo shops near you Shant then save up and travel to a world renowned artist. See if it's something you really want to be a part of. I doubt anyone becomes a musician without first listening to music. Tattoos, like everything in life, is the same. How do you know it's what you want if you haven't experienced anything more than the most fleeting elements of it?

PS - It's probably best not to tell the person giving you your first tattoo that you want to push ink. More than likely they will instantly put you in that mental category of "people trying to get something from me- ignore"

Shant,

If you are from Mumbai, you can check into the tattoo school at Body Canvas there in Bandra (W) Mumbai, call Vicas at +91-9819184454, or Mickey at +91-9820384542.

If you want you could visit one of the shops in Mumbai City and explain your interest in learning tattooing. You didn't state your having a portfolio of artwork but if you do you should remember to take that with you. Forgive my copy and paste of ATTN:'s but if you are serious about learning there is no exception for formal training.

Good luck to you

As Dari has said Jake have said about getting a few tattoos and just watching the artist work (don't ask too many questions with your first tattoo or two just watch).

As a collector, when I am looking at an artist to do my next piece, I usually check out the tattoos that they have. I know they could not have done them all him/herself but maybe a few are his/her own. And I may ask them if any are their own work. If the artist has very little or none at all I would think twice about getting tattooed by that person. Why would someone be a tattoo artist with no tattoos? It would be like a judge with no robe and gavel, could you really trust that they are what they say they are?.

tanx all of u.......... dint expected this lot of comments..

as i m in my last yr of my art school, after its done looking forward to get into business of tattooing......thax HAWK ill shurely check that out...