Shen Weiguo's passion for creating original tattoo art has propelled him to success.[Photo by Gao Erqiang]

As a veteran tattooist who used to work with Paul Booth - a world renowned tattoo master from the United States - Shen Weiguo has established himself as one of the best in Shanghai with his bold and exquisite designs.

Anative of Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, Shen has always been passionate about drawing and modern art forms. He started out in the business in 1993 by helping friends do traces that were later tattooed on their customers. He is currently one of the most sought-after tattoo artists in Shanghai, with his followers even creating online forums to express their admiration.

Shen now operates two studios under the name Shanghai Canglong Tattoo, where he takes pride in ensuring that each design is never a copy of an existing one. China Daily spoke to the 39-year-old about the tattoo culture at his studio on Changle Road.