Meet Dillon Forte

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dillon Forte.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born in Santa Monica, CA to a family of artists. My mother is a romance novelist and my father was a fashion photographer, now financial astrologer/mathematician. I grew up in Berkeley/Oakland, CA skateboarding and making art. At 19 I got an apprenticeship at a small shop in Berkeley and later began using tattooing as a means to travel the world—eventually opening my Studio, Sri Yantra in Oakland.

A few months ago I moved back to Southern California and have been making a home in Venice Beach. Currently, I’m in the process of optimizing my private studio above the world renowned Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Please tell us about your art.
I’m predominantly known for contemporary Sacred Geometry, blackwork, and dot work tattooing. I aim to create work that has a timeless feel—both primitive and futuristic. I’m inspired by the mathematics behind nature and the patterns that formulate our reality and existence. The message I’d like to share is one of interconnectedness and a deep, profound state of wonder and awe. It is my belief that the source of suffering is our false belief in separation leading to a delusional sense of division. Through beginning to familiarize ourselves with the archetypal structure of the universe, we can begin to become aware of our true nature. I hope to create a lasting impression on each individual the patterns can trigger a form of subtle awakening which can lead to a lasting sense of peace and tranquility.

What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?

I believe that the tattoo community should support each other. Every artist has a unique trait that sets them apart from others, and we learn new things from each other all the time. Some of these conventions are great ways for artists to network and promote their shop or personal brand, with social media being a huge driver of awareness. Obviously, a county like Los Angeles probably has more tattoo shops and artists than most, but there’s plenty of room to grow if you find your specialty.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I always encourage those interested to check out my website portfolio at DillonForte.com or by visiting my Instagram page (@DillonForte). I also do canvas work and occasional sculptures, so sometimes I will end up in galleries or as part of special events/exhibitions. For my tattoo work, you can also see completed pieces on some well-known celebrities like Chris Hemsworth, Kat Von D, Ben McKee of Imagine Dragons, Kehlani and Deandre Levy. You can also check out my work in a new coffee table book I’m soon to release. I’ve been featured on multiple websites and TV shows like Art Of Ink and Jean Claude Van Johnson. I’m just thankful to have my work spread through creative outlets, and most importantly the word spreads organically through my friends and clients.

It’s simple to support my work; they can follow/share my work on social media, buy my new book, attend an upcoming convention or email to make an appointment to get tattooed.

The 9th International Nepal Tattoo Convention – April 26-28

The Island Tattoo Connection – May 13-19

The 15th International London Tattoo Convention – September 2019

Contact Info:

• Website: http://dillonforte.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillonforte/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DillonForteTattoo/

Image Credit:
Dillon Forte

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