Tattoo Creepers: Adam Vu Noir

This weeks featured artist is Adam Vu Nior from Los Angeles. We sent him the White Leather Creepers to make an iconic, one of a kind pair of shoes. 

To check out more of his work head to his Instagram

Tell me about yourself:

My name is Adam Vu Noir. From Los Angeles, California. I work and operate a tattoo studio called STRANGELOVE alongside a dream team of amazing artists who are also my dear friends. I have tattooed on all 7 continents and I am lactose intolerant.

How long have you been tattooing for?

I have been tattooing for around 11-12 years, but started working in tattoo studios as a shop hand about 16 years ago.

What made you want to become a tattoo artist?

Some of the best bad guys in old movies and my favorite bands growing up all had tattoos. How else would I get them to notice me?

Why did you decide to customize the shoes the way you did?

I wanted to paint a mystery.

How was working on this project for you?

All good. It’s always a little hurdle at the beginning trying to conceptualize and illustrate a narrative. But once it’s all laid out the actual painting process is the easy part. Different types of leather create different looks and paint will not always take or look the same from one article of clothing to another. But it’s all part of that struggle to end up being pleased with what you’re trying to do.

Are you currently working on any other projects?

Always.

How long have you been an artist for?

I’ve been breaking things and trying to put them back together with whatever was around for as long as I can remember. But I still shudder every time I must say or asked if I’m an artist. I think at this point if that feeling is still there, it’ll always be there.

What’s your favorite tattoo that you have & why?

My kid sister tattooed a smiley face on my wrist and big brother tattooed a happy face next to it. My wife tattooed “Hallooo” (German for “Hello”) on my thigh, and a bunch of my cousins have tattooed their initials on me. Those are probably my favorite just because none of them have ever tattooed.

How were you keeping busy during quarantine?

I can’t glamorize it, I worked on some personal projects and took on commissioned work all the while trash TV played in the background. As long as I have one or a few creative outlets I’m good. We’ve all heard so many stories at this point of everyone’s difficult situations during these times, the only way I could get past my own during that time was to bury myself in work. And I’m grateful for all of it.