Once regarded as a taboo or a symbol of rebellion, tattoos in Nepal have transformed into expressions of identity, art, spirituality, and self-expression.

From minimalist designs to intricate mandalas, Nepal’s streets, from Thamel to Patan, now display diverse tattoo art on arms, backs, and sometimes even faces.

In this evolving cultural landscape stands Sampurna Sthapit, widely recognised as Nepal’s first body modification artist.

Sthapit’s journey began at the age of twelve in Basantapur, where art surrounded him. A chance encounter with a local tattoo artist sparked his fascination. Using gel pen ink and a compass, he began practising on himself and his friends, spending hours perfecting early designs.

Over the years, he taught himself to tattoo, refusing formal classes while mastering realism and intricate detail. His first professional tools arrived from China, initially unfamiliar, but ultimately the foundation of his craft.

His inspiration came from the late tattoo artist Babu Raja Dai, and today Sthapit challenges stereotypes that associate tattoos with crime or deviance. His own body reflects his belief that tattoos are meaningful art, not markers of disorder.