Jess Yen Receives “Heart” Calligraphy from Nioh (Formerly Horiyoshi III) Sensei

Honoring a special moment as Jess Yen is presented with the “Heart” calligraphy by Nioh Sensei, celebrating artistry, tradition, and respect in Japanese tattoo culture.

Jess Yen receiving a Kokoro 心 calligraphy scroll from Nioh Sensei, formerly Horiyoshi III, at a dinner table with Nioh Sensei and Souryou, now Horiyoshi IV.

He says "True hearts, right hearts, big hearts for Horiyen family"

Jess Yen (Horiyen) with Nioh Sensei, formerly Horiyoshi III, in his Japanese tattoo studio, honoring the traditional irezumi legacy

Jess Yen (Horiyen) with the master Horiyoshi III at his new studio

This photograph captures an unforgettable evening from the early years of Jess Yen’s journey in the traditional Japanese tattoo world. He was invited to a private dinner with Nioh Sensei, formerly known as Horiyoshi III, and Souryou, now known as Horiyoshi IV, where the foundations of a lifelong friendship were formed. Surrounded by both families, Jess was honored with a hand-brushed calligraphy of the kanji “心 (kokoro), meaning heart”, personally written by Nioh Sensei. This meaningful gift symbolized trust, respect, and a shared dedication to the legacy of irezumi.

Over the years, this connection only deepened through repeat visits and intimate family dinners in Japan. Nioh Sensei, a legendary figure in Japanese tattoo culture, is also the co-founder of Korouten, an annual art exhibition that originally showcased collaborations with painters, and other traditional artists. In recognition of Jess’s artistry and the respect between them, Nioh Sensei invited Jess to join as the very first tattoo artist to participate in Korouten, making history in the exhibition’s long tradition. Jess’s participation continued for several years, marking a rare and meaningful bridge between fine art and traditional irezumi. This photograph not only captures that heartfelt dinner with Nioh Sensei and Horiyoshi IV, but also represents the trust, friendship, and mutual respect that made such a collaboration possible.