Meet Certified Letter Boy: The Tattoo Artist Behind Central Cee, Rick Owens, and David Beckham

Certified Letter Boy: The Tattoo Artist Behind the Stars

Certified Letter Boy, or Pablo, is a tattoo artist known for his fine-line tattoos worn by celebrities like Central Cee, Rick Owens, and David Beckham. Operating out of Soho, London, he speaks about his career and inspirations.

Inspiration for the Name

The name “Certified Letter Boy” stems from Drake’s Certified Lover Boy album. Pablo, who is also a graffiti artist, wanted a fun and catchy name while brainstorming with his creative director. The name was meant to be a light-hearted nod rather than a serious title.

Tattooing Celebrities and Athletes

Pablo shares that he began tattooing celebrities as his delicate designs gained attention. His work attracted a wider network, leading to opportunities with high-profile clients.

Memorable Tattoos

Pablo considers tattooing David Beckham and Rick Owens as highlights in his career. He notes that fine-line tattoos, being less painful, allow most clients to manage the experience well. He humorously mentions that often, muscular clients find the process more challenging than women, whom he finds can handle the pain surprisingly well.

Central Cee’s Tattoo

For Central Cee, Pablo created a tattoo featuring the phrase “can’t rush greatness,” inspired by the artist’s latest album title. He incorporated the Toyota emblem, referencing Central Cee’s lyric about his journey from a Yaris to a luxury vehicle.

Rick Owens’ Unique Tattoo

Rick Owens got a tattoo that reads “so cunt,” a design he created. The idea emerged from a discussion during a trip to Paris, further developed in Venice, reflecting Owens’ artistic collaborations.

Fashion and Tattoos Connection

Pablo believes there is a strong link between fashion and tattoos. The tattoo culture influences many fashion trends, especially in streetwear. He explains that graphic designs often borrow from tattoo styles, showing how interconnected these industries are.

Future Aspirations

If he had the chance, Pablo would like to tattoo artists like Mr. Cartoon, Dr. Woo, or Mark Mahoney. He respects their contributions to the tattoo art scene.

Conclusion

Certified Letter Boy continues to make waves in the tattoo world, creating art that resonates with both celebrities and fans alike. His approachable style and passion for tattooing ensure that his work remains relevant and sought after.