Mastering the physical and spiritual
Speaking on his creative side, Francois explained tattooing was his sport and hobby, and he prided himself on ‘drawing with love’.
At first appearance, Francois Rossouw is not your conventional type.
If the numerous tattoos, wild hairstyle and jewellery don’t immediately give it away, Francois is also unique because of his two pursuits, tattooing and ghost hunting.
From a young age, he has possessed these gifts.
“I was born with the ability to see spirits; at 12, I did my first tattoo on myself.”
A naturally creative person, Francois recently relocated to the Newcastle area, where his 17-plus years’ experience has been in high demand.
Currently, he offers clients a to-the-door service.
Speaking on his creative side, Francois explained tattooing was his sport and hobby, and he prided himself on ‘drawing with love’.
Adept at freehand design, one of his best tattoos took about three hours to complete.
“It was a bird on a girl’s back, with a silhouette of a tree. It was one of my best works.”
Francois said when deciding on a tattoo, it was important for a person to know what they want, be older than 18 and sign an agreement to protect both parties.
He stated emphatically the pain was minimal.
“Most important to me is that the client be certain. Even I have some tattoos I regret inking.”
Addressing critics of tattoos, Francois described himself as an artist who didn’t like himself on paper alone, also working on glass, steel and bodies.
“Many people complain but come back for more tattoos. Some even complain about the art while I am busy with them.”
Overall, Francois puts his art into a personal collection, although certain residents have purchased pieces from him.
Perhaps it is because of his honest interpretations.
“I am candid with my art. I draw naked bodies, but I also love graphic design and drawing vehicles.”
On the ghost hunting side of his life, Francois said as a young boy, he noticed movement out of the corner of his eye, never fully understanding the implications.
As he aged, he realised spirits were communicating with him.
“It was more of us sharing a mutual presence.”
When responding to any call, Francois first ensured the client was not on medication or abusing substances, before moving in to investigate.
Since launching his career, he said sight was a curse, not a gift.
“A hotel in the Colenso area was the most hectic; I still feel the effects to this day.”
Although many sceptics trash Francois, he believes in freedom of choice, adding many had changed their views after meeting him at haunted locations.
“They feel abnormal presences and generally freak out,” he smiled.
