Vanta wasn’t just built—it evolved. From ink to metal, from fleeting ideas to permanent statements, every VANTA piece carries a story. Steel Stories is where I break that down—the process, the inspiration, the moments in between. And at the heart of it all is Skin to Steel—the book that defines this journey.
From Skin to Steel: The Story Behind the Book
What started as a simple catalogue became something much bigger. Originally, the House of Vanta book was meant to showcase Vanta's laser-cut designs to interior designers and architects, a tangible reference to help them envision these pieces in luxury spaces. But as the pages filled, so did the depth of the story. It became a visual journey—a fusion of tattoo artistry, metalwork, and personal narrative.
Crafted over four years, this book captures the evolution of Vanta, diving deep into the inspirations behind each design. It’s a tribute to the creative process, to the raw grit of building something from nothing, and to the bold aesthetic that defines Vanta.
The Art of Transformation: From Tattooing to Metalwork
Before VANTA, my world was tattooing. The discipline of linework, precision, and permanence—where every mark is deliberate—became the foundation of my metalwork. But unlike ink that absorbs into skin, metal is cut away, leaving behind form and structure. The absence of material becomes just as important as what remains.
This book explores that transformation—how the bold lines, intricate detailing, and composition of tattoo art evolved into laser-cut metal designs. It’s a fresh perspective on how tattoo aesthetics transcend beyond skin, into decor, architecture, and functional art.
Behind the Designs: Inspiration, Process & Collaboration
Each chapter of Skin to Steel takes readers behind the scenes, uncovering the meaning behind VANTA’s most iconic pieces.
• The Native Australia Panels – A deeply personal piece, these 3-meter-tall triptych panels were created as a tribute to my family history and heritage. A gift to my parents, they now stand overlooking the Murray River, framed by the same gum trees that have watched over us for generations.
• Bespoke Metalwork – From custom architectural gates to sculptural installations, each VANTA piece balances form, function, and presence.
The Power of Collaboration
Vanta thrives on collaboration—bringing together artists, designers, and craftspeople to push the boundaries of metalwork. Skin to Steel explores the creative synergy behind these partnerships, where bold concepts and artistic styles merge to create something entirely new.
Some of the key collaborations featured in the book include:
• Geometric Lighting & Metal Screens – Exploring the interplay of light and shadow, these pieces transform intricate patterns into sculptural lighting and privacy screens, casting dynamic visuals that shift throughout the day.
• Bespoke Architectural Gates & Panels – Designed in collaboration with artists and clients, these statement pieces fuse function with storytelling, each custom-cut with intent and precision.
• Signature Fine Dining Creations – Bringing VANTA’s aesthetic into the culinary world, custom-designed dining ware and statement serving pieces elevate food presentation into an art form.
• Sculptural Installations & Public Art – Large-scale metalwork designed to command presence in both commercial and residential spaces, blending craftsmanship with architectural influence.
Collaboration is at the heart of VANTA’s evolution—a continuous exchange of ideas, where every new project expands the boundaries of what’s possible in steel. Skin to Steel captures these moments of creative partnership, showcasing how diverse artistic disciplines can merge into something bold, enduring, and unforgettable.
The Reality of Building a Brand from the Ground Up
Skin to Steel isn’t just an art book—it’s also a raw look at the challenges of building VANTA. Over the last few years, I’ve had to navigate everything from product design, logistics, procurement, marketing, sales and 3D modeling to business structuring and management—things I knew nothing about when I started.
This book reflects that learning curve—the wins, the failures, and the perseverance it takes to bring an idea to life. For anyone who has ever wanted to turn their passion into something tangible, this is a behind-the-scenes glimpse into what that journey really looks like.
What Skin to Steel Means for the Future of VANTA
This book marks a new chapter for VANTA—a stepping stone toward something much bigger. With every copy sold, we move closer to launching VANTA Studios, a space where art, tattooing, metalwork, and fine dining converge.
VANTA is more than a brand—it’s a movement, and Skin to Steel is your invitation to be part of it.
More Than a Book—A Story Set in Steel
Skin to Steel embodies everything VANTA stands for: boldness, craftsmanship, and the power of artistic transformation. Through these pages, my journey from tattooist to metal artist unfolds—capturing the beauty, the challenges, and the creative force behind every piece.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. Welcome to my world of VANTA.
