Today we’d like to introduce you to DASOL KIM.
Hi DASOL, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Dasol Kim, and I work as a tattoo artist under the name Soltattoo. I originally studied sculpture and have always loved drawing. While attending a fine art university in Korea, I decided to learn tattooing to help cover my living expenses and the high cost of art materials. I thought it would be the perfect way to do what I love—drawing—while also supporting myself.
When I first began tattooing in Korea, the general image of tattoos was quite different from what I envisioned. Most people associated tattoos with large-scale Irezumi styles or bold lines. But I wanted to create something smaller, more delicate—something that felt like my drawings. So I began to explore and develop a style that reflected that vision.
As time went on, more and more people connected with my work. The support and love I received gave me the courage to take the next step, and I eventually moved to the U.S. to explore a bigger world. I settled in Los Angeles, where I invited apprentices and fellow artists I had mentored along the way. Together, we now work at my studio, Vismstudio.
Vismstudio is a modern, carefully curated space designed to let clients experience tattooing as a form of art in a peaceful, comfortable setting.
It’s been over 13 years since I began this journey. Along the way, I’ve created countless pieces, met so many incredible people, and listened to so many beautiful stories. Every tattoo I make carries a little piece of those memories, and I’m grateful every day that I get to keep doing what I love.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road.
I originally set out with a goal of pursuing fine art, and I was fully committed to that path throughout my school years. Tattooing started as something more practical—a way to support my art financially. But as time went on, I found myself falling in love with it more and more. That shift was confusing for me.
There was a period of about 2 to 3 years when I tried to do both—tattooing and fine art at the same time—but it became clear that I needed to choose one path. Eventually, I chose tattooing.
Looking back, I have no regrets. Tattooing gave me a way to express myself creatively while connecting with people in such a direct and meaningful way. It’s been a journey of growth and discovery.
We’ve been impressed with VISMSTUDIO, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are a collective of well-known tattoo artists originally from Korea, now working together in Los Angeles. Each of us came here on an artist visa, bringing our own unique style and artistic vision into this new environment.
What truly connects us is our shared love for drawing. We’re not just tattoo artists—we’re a group of creatives who live and breathe art. Each artist in our studio has a strong sense of professionalism and a clear artistic identity, and together, we inspire and support one another to grow.
Our studio is more than just a workplace; it’s a space for creativity, collaboration, and artistic energy. That’s something we’re really proud of.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
If you’re someone who draws or creates, you probably have an artist you admire deeply.
Sometimes, it’s worth reaching out to them—you never know what kind of connection or inspiration could come from that.
But even if you don’t speak to them directly, just being inspired by their work can help you reflect on your own style and direction.
I think the most important part of finding a mentor or building a creative network is staying open—open to learning, to being moved, and to discovering your own voice through that process.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vismstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soltattoo
Image Credits
Photo by: Soltattoo
