To gain some insight into Japanese folklore and how the subjects can be portrayed, I wanted to to back to the very start of my personal journey with Japanese Folklore - David Barry 

As I mentioned on page 23 of my sketchbook, David introduced me to Japanese folklore through tattooing. For this reason, I thought it would be really interesting to get his personal insight into Japanese folklore as well as his influences.

I wrote a few pages of question in a little notebook which I took with me. I didn't actually use my notebook as the conversation flowed without the need for any set questions.

David brought me some book to look at which he felt may be interesting to me.

He brought along:

Hokusai, K (2020) Hokusai Manga. London: Thames & Hudson

ISBN: 9780500294611

Mullen, I and Reinke, A (Unknown) Irezumi Iconography. (Unknown) 

Couldn't find any information to reference however it is available online at: https://www.atonementbooks.com/product/irezumi-iconography-iain-mullen-and-alex-reinke/

Weilk, C (Unkown) Japanese One-Points Vol. 2. (Unknown) 

Available from Chris' website at: https://www.chriswielktattoos.com/shop/p/volume2

These books aren't particularly pertinent to the folklore tales I have been exploring, however they're very interesting pieces of art and very enjoyable. They also serve as a great reminder of how many niche and amazing books there are which I haven't found yet.

Here is my full length interview with David Barry

During my interview with David, I didn't have time to make any notes myself as the conversation was flowing quickly. Thankfully I had Gracie to take notes for me!

This conversation with David helped reaffirm my attitude towards this project. As an artist, I always have creative licence to twist and transform any subject.

With that being said, the Japanese Folklore is an incredibly rich and culturally important set of tales. I believe it's important to respect the folklore and traditions so that when I create a design, it is well informed and all changes made are purposeful.