Ciel La Rue

Artist Statement: The Intersection of Black Work, Sacred Geometry, and American Traditional Tattooing

Tattooing, for me, is a continuous exploration of contrasts—between the bold and the delicate, the modern and the traditional, the spiritual and the physical. My work is deeply rooted in the precision and depth of black work tattooing, a style that allows me to create intricate, impactful pieces that feel both timeless and grounded. There’s something captivating about using only black ink to tell a story—about how the starkness of dark lines can communicate both simplicity and complexity. It’s a style that invites contemplation, pulling viewers into a world of geometric perfection, where every shape has its own meaning, and every line serves a purpose.

Birds, in particular, hold a special place in my work. They symbolize freedom, transcendence, and the untamed spirit. When paired with sacred geometry, their flight becomes a metaphor for the balance between the physical world and something much larger. Sacred geometry provides a framework for understanding the universe, with its perfect patterns and infinite possibilities. I love how the fluidity of a bird’s form contrasts with the precision of these mathematical symbols—together, they speak to the harmony between order and chaos, the seen and the unseen.

At the same time, there’s a side of my work that finds joy in the simplicity and boldness of American Traditional tattoos. Their vibrant colors and iconic imagery, remind me of the raw, authentic joy of tattooing—like a good PB&J. There’s something so satisfying in their bold, clean lines and straightforwardness. No frills, just powerful symbols and rich colors that stand the test of time. Whether it’s a classic dagger or a stylized pin-up, there’s an undeniable beauty in American Traditional tattoos. The walk-in nature of this style makes it even more appealing—its accessibility, its immediacy, and its ability to connect on a deeply personal level with anyone who sits in my chair.

To me, tattooing is about finding a balance between these two worlds: the meticulous, introspective nature of black work and the approachable, iconic simplicity of American Traditional. It’s a reminder that art doesn’t always have to be complicated to be meaningful, just as a good PB&J doesn’t need anything extravagant to be perfect. Both styles, in their own ways, offer something profound and deeply satisfying. And as an artist, there’s nothing more fulfilling than creating pieces that resonate, whether they delve deep into the metaphysical or celebrate the straightforward beauty of tradition.

Many thanks,

Ciel La Rue