Fred, passionate tattoo artist, is a true lover of ink and body as canvas. But before becoming an expert in Japanese tattoo and its symbolism, Fred traced his way into the underground world of Marseille in the 90s. At that time, he was an epicurean in the style of a gladiator, "get-into-it", who walked the streets with brush, marker and Valstar by hand, covering the tarmac surfaces of the hexagon. A time when it could have been compared to an urban version of "On the road".
Then, tired of the effervescence of Provençal punk, Fred takes the direction of Polynesia. There, he became artistic director for the Ministry of Culture, a position that allowed him to discover Maori culture and observe local tattoo artists. Fascinated by their techniques and patterns, he begins to draw these black, thick and chiseled lines. Very soon, he launched his own textile brand, attracting the attention of Tahitian tattoo artists and strengthening his link with this ancestral art.
His career takes a more direct turn towards tattooing as he travels, especially to Australia and New Zealand. However, it was in Japan, under the influence of masters like Horiyoshi III, that Fred truly became a tattoo artist. His visit to Thailand, in salons where boxers, tourists and locals meet, has a profound impact on him. It is not the slaughter of industry that interests him, but rather the idea of making skin a valuable support, far from the simple sketchbook.
Back in Europe, Fred opened his own salon in Marseille before moving to Neuchâtel, Switzerland for two years. There, he perfected the strict hygiene standards that he will implement on his return to southern France in 2012, in Aix-en-Provence. This is where he founded Needles Hand, a place where he shares his expertise, nourished by his experiences around the world.
His style is unique and precise. He specializes in colorful Japanese tattoos, which he considers the pinnacle of the art of tattooing, both for its aesthetics and its deep cultural value.
Fred likes to see his clients evolve with their tattoos. Each realization is a path that he travels with them, for an authentic, thoughtful and personalized result. He is passionate about the idea of accompanying people in their transformation, offering tattoos that really look like them.
From professional footballer to actor, to lawyers, traders or students, there are many who walk through the door of Needles Hand. Some for its distinctive design, others for its inimitable Marseilles humor.