It didn't take long for Greek tattoo artist Fodas to realise that New School was the place for him. In this style, where anything goes, this comic book and video game fan has been having a blast creating designs with clear lines and vibrant colours.
Hello Fodas, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Nikodimos, I'm from Greece, and since I was very young my friends have called me Fodas, a nickname I use for my artist name. I'm 28 and grew up in a small town near Athens, Livadeia. I lived in Germany for a few years where I worked in a tattoo studio, then I came back to Greece and have been working here for a year. I always go to Germany as a guest. I like the fact that people there are more open-minded about tattooing and more particularly about my style.
Have you always drawn?
I started drawing when I was very young. At first I drew tractors and modified cars because those were the references I had as a child in my town. Then I created my own characters inspired by my toys and Legos.
Comic books, video games, films, music... have they had an influence on you?
As a child of the 90s, I grew up watching Disney animated films and cartoons, like Spiderman, Batman and things like that, so it's definitely a source of inspiration for me. Later, I played video games on the PS1 and discovering Crash Bandicoot was a big influence, as well as shaping my style. Then I played World of Warcraft, which had a huge impact on the way I drew. I understood what I wanted to do and what would be my guideline as an artist. From then on, video games in general became my number one influence.
Do you spend a lot of time playing games?
I like to play when I've got free time, but that's not very often... But it's an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Every time I play a game, it's not just for fun. I enjoy seeing a lot of things: the characters, the landscapes and other things that might be useful for a new drawing or a quick sketch. I really like them because you can do what you want and be who you want.
Are there any cult works for you?
Anything that comes from a video game or comic book, especially World of Warcraft, is welcome! So one of my favourite pieces is a cover I made a few months ago on that theme. I also designed a cover with a frog sitting and smoking on a giant grass throne. I love all my designs because I try to do my best with each of my customers. It's not just a commission.
Comic strips have also nurtured your artistic universe, haven't they?
Yes, I was still an apprentice when I studied at a comics school. I wanted to know more about this world and how to make one. So I learned how all these animations and stories were produced, and I wanted to be part of it in some way. I got to know other artists like conceptual artists. Conceptual art has helped me in my work and in the way I think when I draw now.
Do you draw comics yourself?
When I was at school, I drew a few, but they were only one page long. Apart from that, I never drew a complete one. After a while, I was no longer able to follow the courses because I was working as a tattooist at the same time. I couldn't devote myself entirely to my studies. Although today I prefer illustration and conceptual art, I still enjoy reading comic strips.
How did tattooing come into your life?
It's not a long story! My older best friend was already a tattooist when I was still a student. He did New School. At first, I was his apprentice in the studio where he worked, then I got my place and stayed there for four years as an artist. Before I knew it, I was already drawing New School designs and I hope one day to become as good as my favourite artists.
Can you name a few?
My three stars are Victor Chil, Jamie Ris and Lehel. I respect and admire a lot of artists, but these are the ones I like best. Their art is closer to mine and it's thanks to them that I'm improving. Every time I see a new tattoo or drawing by them, it motivates me to do something better. I like my designs to have clean shapes and vibrant colours. That's what I look for in other artists' designs. + IG : @fodas_tats
