Culture
Tattoo Talk: Dillon Forte Discusses His Work, Style, and New Tattoo App
Tattoo artist Dillon Forte joins us once again for a Tattoo Talk interview to discuss his work and his new “Sacred Geometry Drawing App.”

Dillon Forte is a tattoo artist who’s seriously killing it within his industry. He is well known for his super-detailed designs inspired by sacred geometry. He has an unrivalled talent for turning skin into living masterpieces using ancient geometric patterns and modern tattooing techniques, which has earned him a major reputation. It’s so much more than just an occupation for Forte. He believes that through the use of geometry, human beings can improve their awareness of the true meaning of life.
Forte is an artist we previously connected with for a Tattoo Talk interview back in 2022. At this point, we thought it was well worth a follow up so Forte joins us again today for another edition of Tattoo Talk. This new interview dives into Forte’s journey into the tattoo world, what he’s working on now, and the launch of his new iPadOS app, the “Sacred Geometry Drawing App,” which gives artists and creators a unique platform to explore geometric design.
How would you describe your personal artistic style?
Dillon Forte: “Thanks for taking the time to chat. I’d say my personal artistic style is a contemporary take on sacred geometry. I’ve had a fascination with sacred geometry for a long time, and it stems from my belief that it serves as the definitive link between all things. I mean, it really connects with everything we experience and perceive as being possible because of the mathematical laws of the universe. It’s a really interesting concept and I recommend those who are curious to read more about it.”
How did you get started?
“I began my professional tattooing journey well over a decade ago. Initially, I apprenticed in a shop that focused on American Traditional pieces. A couple of years into my career, I combined my fascination for sacred geometry with my love of tattooing, which significantly influenced my current style. From that point, I opened a shop in Oakland, moved down to Los Angeles, and now have my shop just outside of Austin.”
What inspires you for your tattoo designs?
“My main inspiration for tattoo designs primarily comes from sacred geometry, which I view as the definitive link between all things. This perspective allows me to create designs that resonate on a deeper, universal level. I also gather inspiration from travel, cool experiences, and from the ideas and concepts that clients bring to me when they want a tattoo. I’m always learning, and inspiration really comes from staying curious about art and how I do my work.”
What’s your greatest passion besides tattoos?
“Beyond tattooing, I have a passion for fine art photography, painting, fashion, and other types of design. Doing other creative things outside of work allows me to express different facets of my artistic vision and keep my creative energy flowing. Over the years, I would say travelling is one of my biggest passions since it allows me to see the world, work with international clients, go to tattoo conventions, and do cool shit worldwide (laughs). It’s hard to pin down one other passion, though; I’m into so many things outside of tattooing.”
You recently released an app for iPad. Tell us about that.
“I created an app for iPadOS called ‘The Sacred Geometry App’ that fills a void in the market for easily designing geometric designs for tattooing. I use the app myself for client work all the time, and I’m finding that other artists of all types are really getting into it for their own work or creativity. The latest update/version of the app just dropped last week, so I’m really excited about that. There’s so much work that goes into these things.”
What would you never tattoo?
“As an artist, I approach each tattoo with respect for the client’s personal journey and preferences. While I don’t have a specific list of designs I would never tattoo, I ensure that each piece aligns with both my artistic integrity and the client’s intentions. I think most people come to me because of my style of tattooing, so it’s really never been an issue. So far, I haven’t had anyone come to me looking to tattoo anything I may roll my eyes at.”
Do you have any new tattoos planned or underway?
“I don’t have any new tattoos planned for myself at the moment. My focus remains on creating meaningful and intricate designs for my clients, ensuring each piece is an amazing and unique piece of art. However, I have been designing flash-style tattoos for this company called Co:Create. You can buy a piece of my art/flash on their site that I have created and book time with me at my studio to get it done.”
What guided you to get into this line of work?
“I started off as just a teenager into skateboarding and cool art. I happened to hang out near a tattoo studio by a skate shop in my neighbourhood. One thing led to another and I started tattooing and got an apprenticeship. Over a couple of years, I really figured out what my personality was with tattooing and got into sacred geometry and black ink tattoos. With my experience, I eventually opened my own studio, and as they say, the rest is history.”
Machine, ink, etc.: What’s your gear of choice?
“Over the years I’ve used a variety of tattoo machines and inks, selecting the best tools to achieve the desired outcome for each piece. Last year, though, I collaborated with artist Andrea De Leon to create our own tattoo machine. It’s totally badass and is like a piece of art. So, over the past year or so, I’ve been using my own custom machine on all clients. I believe the choice and quality of tattoo equipment are crucial in bringing the intricate details of a tattoo to life on the skin.”
Tattoo pain: love it, hate it, indifferent to it? Or maybe pain is all mental?
“Regarding tattoo pain, I believe it’s a subjective experience. Some clients find it tolerable, while others may find it more challenging. As an artist, I strive to make the process as comfortable as possible for each individual.”
What is your absolute favourite part of getting fresh ink?
“It’s always awesome seeing the completed piece come to life on the skin. One of the aspects I enjoy most about tattooing is the opportunity to connect with my clients. They often come from all over the country, so it’s interesting to hear about their story and why they are getting the ink. I’m fortunate that through my art, I get to meet tons of interesting people, each bringing a unique story and perspective. This kind of work really makes the tattooing experience awesome, making it more than just about the art itself.”
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