A cross-cultural exploration of Japan and Western perspectives through intricate ink photography by Rob Walbers and typography as illustrations or calligraphy by Bart Luijten. Text in English and Japanese.

Tales in Ink by Rob Walbers and Bart Luijten is a visually and conceptually rich exploration of identity, creativity, and self-expression through the art of tattooing. This loose-leaf publication brings together a series of intimate portraits and conversations with renowned figures from the creative world from Tokyo to Los Angeles, who share personal stories about how their tattoos have become integral to whom they are. Each interview delves into the symbolic meaning behind their ink, revealing how body art can reflect transformation, personality, memory, or artistic philosophy. Beyond documentation, the book’s graphic design introduces a new visual dialogue, merging photography, typography, and illustration into a layered aesthetic that treats each page as a living canvas — a “new tattoo” in itself. By intertwining word, image, and design, Tales in Ink transcends the boundaries of traditional portraiture and celebrates tattoo culture as a profound expression of creative identity and individuality.

Text in English and Japanese.