Few artists have explored dragons in tattooing with the same depth and devotion as Bill Canales. His first volume, Daily Dragon Sketches – Spring, launched in July 2025 and offered a rare look into his creative process: one dragon, one day, no do-overs. The journey continues with the Summer edition, now open for pre-order.
We’re excited to share an exclusive glimpse behind the curtain with photos from Bill’s original sketchbooks — along with a mini interview where he reflects on dragons, discipline, and the challenges of daily creation.
Origins & Inspiration
Q: Bill, your work with dragons has become iconic in tattooing. Can you take us back to the beginning—how did this journey first take shape for you?
A: My love affair with dragons is anything but ordinary; it's a tale woven from spontaneity and passion rather than intention. I’ve always been captivated by the allure of tattooing dragons, but it wasn’t until around 2010 that I truly delved into their enchanting world. My fascination grew organically, sparking a desire to master dragon anatomy and bring to life these fantastical creatures that exist only in our imagination. It became a thrilling challenge: how to portray them in a way that feels "real" while still embracing their mythical essence.
The Daily Sketch Challenge
Q: With Daily Dragon Sketches continuing from Spring into Summer, the series captures the rhythm of daily sketching. What was it like pushing yourself to draw a dragon every single day—and did the routine ever surprise you?
A: Reflecting on my journey, I see how my dragons have transformed over time. Even the pieces I created just a year ago now seem to echo the evolution of my artistry. It’s exhilarating to think that the dragons I sketch today will be vastly different from those I’ll create in 2026 and beyond.
From Sketch to Page
Q: Every drawing in Daily Dragon Sketches - Spring was made as part of your daily ritual—one sketch, one day, no do-overs. How does working within that discipline shape the final result? And with this being the first of a four-part series, what does it mean for you to document an entire year of dragons in this way?
A: The daily sketches in my "Dragon Diary" started as a simple exercise, born from my deep love for these creatures. While drawing one dragon a day was fulfilling, it also posed a unique challenge: how to innovate with each sketch, altering angles and details to keep the viewer engaged. Not every piece turned out to be a masterpiece, but that’s part of the journey. I chose to include even the less-than-perfect dragons in my book, capturing the raw reality of my creative struggles.
Creative Flow & Rituals
Q: Do you approach sketching with a set routine, or do you let creativity strike when it wants to? Any rituals that help you enter that creative flow?
A: Working under a “no do-overs” discipline is both daunting and exhilarating. Each time my pencil touches the paper, I embark on an unpredictable adventure. Sometimes, the results exceed my expectations; other times, they fall tragically short. Yet, there’s a thrill in that uncertainty. As I look ahead to documenting 2024, who knows what new revelations await in 2036?
Dragons & Symbolism
Q: Dragons carry such a powerful presence in tattooing and art history. What do they mean to you personally—and why do they continue to inspire you after so many years?
A: In my artistic process, I often start with an idea, but once the pencil hits the page, the dragon seems to take on a life of its own—often diverging from my original vision yet surpassing my initial thoughts. Dragons hold a special place in tattooing and carry profound symbolism across cultures. It’s fascinating how disparate societies, with no means of communication, share this common reverence for these mythical beasts.
Advice for Emerging Artists
Q: Many young tattooers and art students look up to your work. What’s one piece of advice you’d give them about finding their own voice as an artist?
A: Today’s emerging artists seem to be on a quest to find their niche, perfecting one specific style, whereas decades ago, versatility was the name of the game. Clients now have the luxury of being discerning, which has shifted the landscape of tattooing. I’ve witnessed this firsthand: artists who specialize are in high demand, while those who attempt to do everything often find themselves struggling.
Community, Collaboration & Influence
Q: Tattooing is such a community-driven craft. And if you could collaborate with any artist—past or present—who would it be, what would that creation look like?
A: Conventions have become my lifeline to connect with fellow artists beyond my studio. At these events, the talent on display is astounding, and I’m continually inspired by the remarkable tattoos that artists showcase. I’ve been fortunate enough to collaborate with my tattooing idol, Filip Leu, not once but twice—an achievement that stands as a highlight in my artistic journey. Additionally, I’ve joined forces with luminaries like Fibs, Joao Bosco, Hernan Coretta, Herzdame, James Tex, and Angel Reynosa, exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what traditional tattooing can be.
Looking Ahead
Q: Dragons are central to this book, but what other subjects or ideas are you excited to explore next in your art—and maybe even in future publications?
A: Now, dragons are not just a passion; they are my path forward. I’ve found my calling in this mythical pursuit, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.
Bill’s Daily Dragon Sketches offer more than drawings—they reveal the discipline, experimentation, and evolving vision behind each tattoo. Through his sketchbooks, we see the raw creativity and dedication that fuels a master artist.
Explore the full collection and dive deeper into the world of tattoo artistry with Kintaro Publishing’s books.
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