Letter from Horisuzu (originally posted on myspace.com, a News Corp subsidiary owned by Rupert Murdoch):

I want to say that i have considered working many conventions and choose to work Redding Ink after talking with Billy York. He understood the importance of showing the public the many styles of tattooing. I hope that my involvement in this convention will help bring interest to both Japanese tattooing and to my mentor Sensei Ryugen from Tokyo Japan. This man is a driving force in not only my career but many fellow tattoo artists as well. I want him to get the credit he so rightfully deserves.

I entered the world of Japanese tattooing and as a non-Japanese tattoo artist and had to find my place in this Culture of Tattooing. I am very honored that I have been held in such high regards by my peers. What I offer is only a small glimpse into the world of Horimono.

I also think that many people getting tattooed these days are forgetting the traditions and styles that fueled the tattoo community for years. That's why working at this event with me is an artist proficient in Traditional Americana — Dirk Spece. These are just a few styles offered at this convention. I urge people to look at all the artists at the convention. We all work in a different place and a different style yet we are all coming together to offer you "the attendees" a chance to go to one place and see a very diverse group of artists and get the tattoo that fits you. I am honored to work with all of these tattooers and look forward to a great event.

Domo Arigato Gozaimasu,
Horisuzu