In the vibrant world of tattoo artistry, where creativity and personal expression intersect with tradition and technique, Philip Szlosek stands out as a beacon of innovation and passion. From his roots in Florida to the prestigious tattoo parlors of New York, Szlosek's journey into the realm of tattooing is as intricate as his designs.
The Foundation
Szlosek's foray into the world of tattooing wasn't just a career choice; it was a calling. His initiation into tattooing began in high school, thanks to a friend who worked at a local shop and introduced him to the art form. This early exposure sparked a passion that would lead him to his first apprenticeship in Fort Lauderdale, a foundational step that piqued his interest but also encouraged him to carve his own path.
Traveling through Florida and working at multiple different shops, Szlosek honed his skills and developed his unique style. A serendipitous call from a friend led him to meet Angelo Miller and Mike Wilson, pivotal figures in his career. It was here that his dream of moving to New York to tattoo began to take shape, thanks to the connections and encouragement he received. Eventually, he co-founded the Long Island tattoo shop, Fountainhead NY.
Beyond the Tattoo Machine
Szlosek is more than just a tattoo artist; he's a multifaceted individual with a rich life outside of his work. Despite his demanding career, he carves out time to pursue his passions. An avid lover of jazz, art, and architecture, Szlosek enjoys drawing, traveling to admire buildings and cityscapes, and collecting art books, especially obscure illustration volumes. His interest in city development and planning, combined with a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, reading non-fiction, and a fascination with history, paints the picture of a man deeply engaged with the world around him.
Inside his Art
In the tattoo chair, Szlosek is in his element, especially when working with a blend of American Traditional and black and grey styles. He has a particular affinity for historic mythology subjects, preferring to create obscure renditions of art that are illustrative and semi-realistic but firmly rooted in American traditional aesthetics, always with a lean towards black and grey.
Approaching a New Canvas
For Szlosek, a new client is a new opportunity to meld two visions into one masterpiece. He emphasizes the importance of gathering ideas and finding common ground, allowing for a collaborative process that filters through his artistic lens. His methodical approach to design focuses on shapes and orientation before delving into details, ensuring that every piece is not only a work of art but also a perfect fit for the client's body and vision.
A Reflection of Simplicity and Utility in Style
Szlosek's personal style mirrors his approach to tattooing—simple, functional, and meticulously chosen. Preferring classic menswear, he opts for tailored fits in muted, earthy tones, favoring textures and quality fabrics. Brands like RRL and Taylor Stitch epitomize his "Phil uniform," reflecting a timeless elegance that ties back to the aesthetic principles guiding his work and the curated selection in his shop.
For those looking to imbue their wardrobe with Szlosek's signature style, he recommends starting with Taylor Stitch Slacks for their impeccable fit and quality, RRL Henleys for casual sophistication, and a classic button-up to complete the look.
You can find his recommendations here:
Double RL - Garment-Dyed Waffle-Knit Henley Shirt in Blue Heather
Taylor Stitch - The Camp Pant in Rinsed Light Khaki Chipped Canvas
Taylor Stitch - The Division Shirt in Birch
You can follow along with Phil’s journey on his Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipszlosek/
If you’re interested in booking a piece with Phil, please fill out this form: https://fountainheadny.com/pages/contact-us
