Olow x Jeykill

11 years after their last collaboration, Olow and Jeykill, co-founder of the legendary Bleu Noir Tattoo, reunite for a series of new pieces. An interview with Jeykill and a look back at the launch event at Bleu Noir in Paris.

Integrated into the "Blend Energy" collection, these unique artworks, crafted in Portugal, are the fruit of creative work seeking to highlight the artist's universe.

Tattoo artist, painter, and draughtsman, Jeykill has been developing a universe marked by multiple influences for over twenty years. Having grown up in the Parisian suburbs at a time when hip-hop culture and graffiti were taking off, he quickly formed a connection with drawing and lettering. In 2010, he founded the Bleu Noir studio in Paris, which has since become a recognized spot in the tattoo scene.

Today, settled near the ocean in the Southwest, he continues his artistic exploration between tattooing, painting, and graphic design.

What are your influences?

My work is inspired by ethnic styles (I'm not a fan of the word "tribal") from all origins. I'm very drawn to images that exude a certain spiritual energy. This leads to introspection and appeasement. I've also been influenced by urban cultures: graffiti, music, skateboarding, surfing, the energy of alternative sports.

How did you get into tattooing?

I started tattooing in 2000. It came naturally to me. I was a draughtsman and I was starting to paint. The world of tattooing attracted me and corresponded to my culture. A friend, heavily tattooed for the time, introduced me to his tattoo artist, who explained the basics of hygiene and technique. Then, I practiced on my friends.

Can you tell us about the history of the Bleu Noir studio?

In 2010, even though my main activity was related to painting and graphic design, I was starting to get a lot of requests for tattoos.

I visited Parisian studios with my portfolio.

No one was interested in my profile, so I set up my own shop. I quickly brought Veenom with me, with whom I had been collaborating for a long time and who wanted to get into tattooing.

What made you decide to relocate to the Southwest?

I'm a surfer and I've always spent a lot of time there. After a while, it was obvious to me to settle there. I feel more at home near the ocean.

You grew up in the Parisian suburbs, what influence did that have on your work?

I witnessed the beginning of hip-hop culture, graffiti, and the tapes we exchanged with friends to discover new sounds. If there's one obvious thing it gave me, I'd say it's letter drawing.

Big cities are multicultural, and I think that resonates with my work. It echoed the collection's theme.