Why Tattoo Artists Matter More Than Tattoo Studios | Vadelma Tattoo
Why Tattoo Artists Matter More Than Tattoo Studios Today
Hello everyone!
In today’s blog, I’d like to share some recent observations from my daily work as a tattoo artist. Tattoos have evolved into a widely respected form of art, appreciated by people from all kinds of backgrounds. In many ways, this reminds me of early rock and roll music — it started somewhere on the margins, and over time the world slowly welcomed it.
This transformation is clearly reflected in the way clients search for tattoos today.
In the past, people usually walked into a tattoo studio, asked for a tattoo, and that was it. Choices were limited — fewer styles, fewer artists, fewer studios. In a strange way, fewer choices also meant less anxiety. Of course, even back then there were famous tattoo artists people travelled for, but overall the process was much simpler.
How Tattoo Culture Has Changed
Today, the role of the tattoo studio itself has shifted.
A studio can exist for many years, but the artists working there may come and go. People who understand the nuances of tattooing no longer rely solely on a studio’s name — they focus on who is actually creating the tattoos.
It’s a bit like a house. Without people inside, creating warmth and atmosphere, it’s just an empty building. No matter how big or beautiful it is, it has no soul.
That’s why we see more and more small private tattoo studios emerging. Studios built around people, not volume.
Why Private Tattoo Studios Are Growing
This shift explains why studios like Vadelma Tattoo in Amsterdam exist the way they do.
Our studio is run by me, Simon, and my wife Natalie Vadelma. When you come for a tattoo session with us, it’s not like visiting a busy shop — it’s more like being invited into our home. We are your hosts, and our goal is to make you feel comfortable, respected, and taken care of, while creating the most beautiful tattoo experience we possibly can.
This approach attracts people who value personal connection, calm atmosphere, and an individual artistic process — especially those looking for fine line, botanical, or meaningful tattoos created with intention.
Times Are Changing — And That’s a Good Thing
As Bob Dylan once sang, “The times they are a-changin’.” And we are clearly witnessing that change in tattoo culture.
Traditional tattoo studios are not disappearing — they have their place, and there is room for everyone. But it’s comforting to live in a time where there is a choice. Another way of working. Another rhythm. Another philosophy.
For artists who have a very specific vision of tattooing, and for clients who are looking for something more personal.
For people like us — and for people like you.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for your time and for reading this blog. I wish you a beautiful day, and who knows — maybe our paths will cross someday in Amsterdam.
If you’d like to explore more of our artistic world beyond tattoos, you can also visit the
With love,
Simon
FAQ – Choosing a Tattoo Artist vs. a Tattoo Studio
Should I choose a tattoo studio or a tattoo artist?
Today, it’s usually better to choose the artist first. The artist’s style, experience, and mindset matter most.
What is a private tattoo studio?
A private studio is typically run by one or two artists, offering a calm, appointment-only environment with full focus on the client.
Are private tattoo studios better for custom tattoos?
Yes. Private studios often specialize in custom, detailed, and fine line work that requires time and concentration.
Is Vadelma Tattoo a private studio?
Yes. Vadelma Tattoo in Amsterdam is a private studio run by Simon and Natalie Vadelma.
Why are private studios becoming more popular?
Clients increasingly value personal connection, comfort, and individual artistic approach over fast, high-volume tattooing.
Why Tattoo Artists Matter More Than Tattoo Studios Today
Hello everyone!
In today’s blog, I’d like to share some recent observations from my daily work as a tattoo artist. Tattoos have evolved into a widely respected form of art, appreciated by people from all kinds of backgrounds. In many ways, this reminds me of early rock and roll music — it started somewhere on the margins, and over time the world slowly welcomed it.
This transformation is clearly reflected in the way clients search for tattoos today.
In the past, people usually walked into a tattoo studio, asked for a tattoo, and that was it. Choices were limited — fewer styles, fewer artists, fewer studios. In a strange way, fewer choices also meant less anxiety. Of course, even back then there were famous tattoo artists people travelled for, but overall the process was much simpler.
How Tattoo Culture Has Changed
Today, the role of the tattoo studio itself has shifted.
A studio can exist for many years, but the artists working there may come and go. People who understand the nuances of tattooing no longer rely solely on a studio’s name — they focus on who is actually creating the tattoos.
It’s a bit like a house. Without people inside, creating warmth and atmosphere, it’s just an empty building. No matter how big or beautiful it is, it has no soul.
That’s why we see more and more small private tattoo studios emerging. Studios built around people, not volume.
Why Private Tattoo Studios Are Growing
This shift explains why studios like Vadelma Tattoo in Amsterdam exist the way they do.
Our studio is run by me, Simon, and my wife Natalie Vadelma. When you come for a tattoo session with us, it’s not like visiting a busy shop — it’s more like being invited into our home. We are your hosts, and our goal is to make you feel comfortable, respected, and taken care of, while creating the most beautiful tattoo experience we possibly can.
This approach attracts people who value personal connection, calm atmosphere, and an individual artistic process — especially those looking for fine line, botanical, or meaningful tattoos created with intention.
Times Are Changing — And That’s a Good Thing
As Bob Dylan once sang, “The times they are a-changin’.” And we are clearly witnessing that change in tattoo culture.
Traditional tattoo studios are not disappearing — they have their place, and there is room for everyone. But it’s comforting to live in a time where there is a choice. Another way of working. Another rhythm. Another philosophy.
For artists who have a very specific vision of tattooing, and for clients who are looking for something more personal.
For people like us — and for people like you.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for your time and for reading this blog. I wish you a beautiful day, and who knows — maybe our paths will cross someday in Amsterdam.
If you’d like to explore more of our artistic world beyond tattoos, you can also visit the
With love,
Simon
FAQ – Choosing a Tattoo Artist vs. a Tattoo Studio
Should I choose a tattoo studio or a tattoo artist?
Today, it’s usually better to choose the artist first. The artist’s style, experience, and mindset matter most.
What is a private tattoo studio?
A private studio is typically run by one or two artists, offering a calm, appointment-only environment with full focus on the client.
Are private tattoo studios better for custom tattoos?
Yes. Private studios often specialize in custom, detailed, and fine line work that requires time and concentration.
Is Vadelma Tattoo a private studio?
Yes. Vadelma Tattoo in Amsterdam is a private studio run by Simon and Natalie Vadelma.
Why are private studios becoming more popular?
Clients increasingly value personal connection, comfort, and individual artistic approach over fast, high-volume tattooing.
