Interview by Ruby Tocker – Photopraghy by Lans Mcgall

Kaleb Satherley, or gypsy_tattooer, is a local tattoo artist who’s known for his clean blackwork. While his subject matter ranges from ornamental flora to a spider wrapped in chains, his pieces are consistently intentional and precise, showcasing both his versatile artistry and technical skill. I’ve been getting tattooed by Kaleb for two-plus years, and I can’t recommend him enough. If you’re looking to get your first tattoo or for a sick addition to your current collection: he’s your guy.

If you weren’t a tattoo artist, what would you be?

Definitely something creative. I’ve always liked the idea of working on movie sets. When I was younger, I got the opportunity to, doing like the special effects makeup and stuff like that. So, it’s been something I’ve loved and would be super keen to do still—even now if the opportunity came up.

Can you build your dream pizza for us?

I’m a simple man with simple needs. Margarita is already my perfect pizza, right? I’d say be crazy and chuck some pineapple on there.

Who’s your dream human canvas?

Gosh, I’d say my granddad just because he doesn’t like tattoos at all. It would be cool to turn his head around and get him into that.

Describe your tattoo style in three words.

Black, dark, and clean.

How did you break into the tattoo industry?

My old man’s a tattoo artist, so I’ve always been running around tattoo studios from when I was super young and I’ve always loved drawing. It just made sense at the time. And who wouldn’t want to draw on people, and that’s how they make their money?

What’s the largest animal you think you could take in a fight?

I’ve had this chat before. I had a dream once where I took a deer to the ground. I was riding on its back and had it by the antlers. So, I’d say deer—based on that, a stag.

What’s your least favourite subject to tattoo? Why?

My least favorite subject… I enjoy everything but maybe it’s script. I find pictures can explain 1000 words, so get a picture instead.

What’s your favourite part of the tattoo process?

Other than actually getting to create my own designs that people get—like this one, just meeting all walks of life. I’ve tattooed people that are in uni to lawyers and everything in between, you know, so you hear all sorts of cool stories.

If you could only drink one beverage for the rest of your life, what would you choose?

Sake. I love sake.

Which historical figure would be the coolest with tattoos?

Jesus would be sick if he was sleeved up. That’d be tough. With a ‘Jesus’ on his chest.

Give one piece of advice to aspiring tattoo artists out there.

Draw every day. Don’t stop drawing because if you get into tattooing that is your life. You draw every single day without question.

Where can our readers find your work and book with you?

@gypsy_tattooer on Instagram and it’s got my e-mail on there as well—I’m pretty active on both. Otherwise just reach out to Skinks directly, you can book with me that way too. But if you want a one-on-one chat, come straight to me through my Instagram or e-mail.

And finally, what’s your favourite form of potato?

Oh, mashed for sure.