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 Like many artists, tattooing was not the first career choice of Mo Coppoletta. The Italian- born artist had originally planned a career within the legal system, even going into law school. However, like many great artists, Mo fell into the tattoo industry, and thankfully, has never looked back. Starting out in 1997 apprenticing under Bugs in London, then later joining Alex Binnie at Into You, Mo Coppoletta has worked with some of the most respected artists of his time- and it shows.
Mo now works at his own studio, The Family Business, in London, which was established in 2003. As a custom appointment- based studio, this place really shows off who Mo is as a person. Each ‘suited and booted’ artist there is creative and professional, just like the man himself. There are also elements of Italian culture that you can see in both Mo’s studio and himself. Mo still travels to Italy whenever he can; taking in the culture- he is inspired by the country’s architecture and lifestyle, which shows in his tattooing.
Mo is extremely well respected for his tattoo art. Tattoo artists are inspired by him, tattoo collectors and clients adore him and even celebrities and musicians want a piece of his work. Last year Mo worked alongside The Prodigy for a piece inspired by their Invaders Must Die album, called Prodigy VS Mo, after the band named him as one of their favourite artists. The project was something Mo found very fun, and is something he may be interested in doing again.
Mo’s work is strictly in the style of both Western and Asian art. It’s very traditional and classic, which is something he wants to keep as being his signature style, feeling those two influences are broad enough. He loves both styles, and is always excited about using elements of each in his work. His use of colour is extremely precise and dynamic, as seen predominantly in his oriental work, and some of his work with Western style animal figures, like birds. He knows which colours will look good, and how to line them faithfully.
As for what’s coming next, Mo himself isn’t really sure. He’s interested in doing some more projects similar to his Prodigy VS Mo artwork, and has teased us by saying there are a few things lined up! As with any extraordinary artist, we’re sure it’ll be something that’ll knock your socks off.
http://www.thefamilybusinesstattoo. Words- Mel Roberts Photos- Mo Copoletta   
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