For no.13 in our 5×5 series I’ve chosen Akira Latanzio. Working out of the renowned Rose tattoo in Brooklyn, Akira does really great classic traditional work. Taking influence from all of the icons of the past, he is someone who’s work you should keep an eye on.

What are your 5 favourite images to tattoo?

1. Roses
   

2. Girls

3. Devils

4. Prisoner of Love

5. Mans Ruin

Your 5 favourite places to tattoo?

1. Hat City Tattoo in Danbury, Connecticut.
2. Working Class Tattoo in Syracuse, NY.
3. I did one day at Sacred Electric in Leeds a few years ago, definitely a great experience.

I don’t travel as much as I’d like to, but I’d like to start. If there’s a shop that wants me to come out I’ll be there. 

Your 5 biggest inspirations?

1. Coleman

2. Grimm

3. Corday 

4. Hardy

5. Polito

5 favourite tattoos you’ve done?

5 tattoos that have impressed you lately?

Rich Fie (@richfie) (R&D Tattoo)

L.M.Knight (@lmknight) (Cult Classic Tattoo)

Jessica Swaffer (@jess_swaffer) (Chapel Tattoo)

Ivan Antonyshev (@ivanantonyshevtattoo) (Mainstay Tattoo)

Alex Boyko (@alexboykotattoo) (Sun Haus)

You can find Akira on instagram @akira_latanzio or at R&D Tattoo in NYC.

You should also check out the previous 5x5s with Scott Move, Luxiano Street-Classic, Eterno8, Joe Ellis, Alex Boyko, Acetates, Cheyenne Sawyer, Ryan Shaffer, Joe Chatt, Clare Frances, Kelly Smith and Hans Heggum.