Haiwei Tai is a tattoo artist and digital illustrator whose work bridges the traditions of American traditional tattooing with contemporary digital media. While his foundation lies in bold lines, iconic imagery, and narrative-driven compositions, Haiwei has embraced digital tools as an essential part of his creative voice. The iPad, for him, is a space to refine ideas, experiment with composition and color, and expand tattoo aesthetics into new forms.

Beyond tattooing, Haiwei develops digital illustrations, brand collaborations, and physical products that carry the same visual discipline. He often transforms his 2D work into tangible objects like toys or collectibles, allowing his imagery to move fluidly between screen, skin, and physical space. Through this hybrid practice, Haiwei uses digital design as both an extension and evolution of tattooing — keeping the spirit of tradition alive while exploring how it can resonate in today’s fast-paced, digitally driven world.

We asked Haiwei about his art, creative process, and inspirations.

Can you tell us about your background as a digital artist? How did you get started in this field?

I am a tattoo artist specializing in American traditional style, drawn to its bold lines, iconic imagery, and enduring visual language. My approach to the craft has been deeply influenced by artists like Dan Santoro, whose philosophy and dedication to tradition helped shape my own understanding of tattooing as both an art form and a discipline. Digital design plays an integral role in my creative process. I use the iPad not only to sketch tattoo flash, but also to experiment with composition, color, and layout in a more fluid and iterative way. This digital workflow allows me to refine ideas and seamlessly translate them into tattoos as well as other visual media. For me, the iPad functions not merely as a sketching tool, but as a vital extension of how I explore, develop, and articulate my artistic voice.

You've been working in American traditional tattoo for over a decade. What drew you to that particular style, and how has your approach to it evolved over the years?

My initial interest in American traditional tattooing stemmed from a deep curiosity about cultural aesthetics that differ from the familiar. Early in my tattooing journey, I connected with a friend from Philadelphia who introduced me to the history and symbolism behind the style. Despite a language barrier, his insights had a lasting influence on how I understood and appreciated the tradition. That experience marked a turning point, and I’ve been committed to the style ever since.

Over the past decade, my approach to American traditional tattooing has continued to evolve. Personal growth, life experiences, and time in the industry have all shaped the way I interpret and apply the style. At times, I’ve adhered closely to traditional motifs; at other moments, I’ve reimagined classic imagery to introduce a more personal or unexpected twist. Still, the core principles—bold lines, clear symbolism, and a strong visual language—remain central to my work. The ongoing challenge, and the reward, lies in developing an individual voice within a style that already carries such a distinct identity.

Do you ever finish a digital design just for the art of it, or is everything created with tattooing in mind?

In today’s fast-paced creative landscape, I actively pursue opportunities beyond tattooing to expand the reach of my visual language. While tattooing remains the foundation of my practice, I also produce digital illustrations for print, brand collaborations, and physical products. These works consistently draw from the aesthetics of tattooing—bold lines, flat color palettes, and narrative-driven compositions—which I see as a defining thread across my creative output.

At times, I develop characters or visual concepts purely as a form of expression, then further refine them digitally to explore new applications. One example is transforming 2D illustrations into tangible objects such as toys or collectibles, enabling my work to inhabit physical space in unexpected ways. These projects provide a valuable sense of creative autonomy while maintaining a clear connection to the visual discipline I’ve built through tattooing.

Do you remember the first tattoo you ever did? What was it, and how do you feel about it now?

Absolutely—I remember it clearly. When I first became interested in tattooing, I was deeply immersed in the craft. I spent a great deal of time at my friend’s shop, constantly observing, learning, and thinking about new designs. One evening, while alone in the shop, I made the decision to tattoo myself for the first time.

The result was a small grim reaper tattoo on my leg. The lines weren’t perfect, but the experience was formative. It marked a pivotal moment when curiosity and determination drove me to take that first step. To this day, I still value that tattoo—not because of its technical quality, but because it represents the beginning of a path I’ve fully committed to.

Your roots are in China, but you're now based in Brooklyn — how have those different cultural environments shaped your work or perspective?

That’s an important question. In my early years, I was exposed to a great deal of traditional Chinese literature through my family, but I initially struggled to connect with it on a personal level. Over time, I became increasingly drawn to Western visual culture—partly because it was less present in my immediate environment and offered a different aesthetic language. This curiosity ultimately led me to American traditional tattooing and, later, to building my practice in New York.

After years of working professionally in tattooing and living in Brooklyn—a city defined by its cultural diversity—I’ve developed a renewed perspective on my own cultural background. Being surrounded by a global creative community has helped me recognize how elements of Chinese culture surface in subtle and meaningful ways within a contemporary context. This shift has prompted a deeper exploration of how both Eastern and Western visual traditions can coexist in my work—not as opposing forces, but as interconnected influences that shape a more complete artistic identity.

What is a fun fact about you?

A fun fact about me is that I really love making breakfast. It’s kind of like a ritual for me—if I ever skip it, I feel like something’s missing from my day. No matter how busy things get, taking that little moment in the morning to cook helps me feel grounded.

What else fills your time when you're not creating art?

Outside of my creative work, I dedicate time to activities that keep me mentally focused and physically engaged. I enjoy rock climbing and occasionally ride my motorcycle—both offer a strong sense of movement and independence. I also maintain a regular practice of yoga and meditation, which helps me stay grounded and mentally clear. I value a quiet, intentional lifestyle. I’m not particularly social, and I find that solitude gives me space to reflect and generate ideas. While people often assume tattoo artists are loud or extroverted, I’m quite the opposite—I draw energy from stillness, and that sense of calm plays an essential role in how I approach both life and art.