Tattoo Industry Magazine Issue 24: Steve Butcher

LIGHTING THAT MAKES SENSE

Perform like the professional you are with the most positionable, shadowless, overhead LED lighting for tattoo artists. Cool to the touch, the CosmoGlo XL extends to nearly six feet tall, allowing you to do better work, faster. Level up! Full Shadowless Coverage / Positionable Arm and Halo /

thecosmoglo.com

naturesbeasttattoocare.com

info@naturesbeasttattoocare.com

GILA TATTOO EXPO

GILA TATTOO EXPO

2023

gilatattooexpo.com

The inaugural Gila Tattoo Expo, held in 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona, marked a significant milestone as an exclusive, invitation-only event. It drew a global array of talented artists from countries such as the United States, Ireland, and Vietnam, showcasing a diverse range of tattoo artistry. The expo also demonstrated a strong community spirit by contributing to autism-related causes in Arizona ⸺ Distinguished artists like Jordi Pla and Don Don from Ink Master, along with the renowned Pooch, were among the attendees. This annual event, set to recur every last weekend of July, promises to be a vibrant fixture in the tattoo community calendar. Applications for participation are open, with anticipation building for the 2024 expo scheduled for July 26-28. ✕

Armando Decoy Munoz @decoy_munoz

Pam Sanders @pamsanderstattoo

Donovan Hernandez @tattoosbydondon

Hoon Kim @hoon_kim_10p

Chase Nolan @chases_tattoos

Phoenix, Arizona

My name is Don Hernandez, and I have been tattooing for eight years. I am the owner of That One Tattoo Parlor and the owner of the Gila Tattoo Expo. I am known for big, bold tattoos with the crispiest lines in the business. I’m a crazy purple-haired tattoo artist living his best life in Arizona.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I’ve been getting tattooed since I was really young, and I figured if someone else can do it, I can do it better.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? I am completely self-taught, with no apprenticeship.

GILA TATTOO EXPO

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I got my inspiration from all the artist that were out there, doing their own thing flawlessly without input.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Know what you want and fully commit. Do not let others change your mind.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part about tattooing is the face I get to see after the tattoo is complete.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I’m ready to rock ‘n’ roll when you are. I will do any tattoo location.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Honestly, nothing but positive vibes.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Get better every day, or quit.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I don’t have a favorite; I love them all.

8 Years Tattooing Glendale, AZ Location

That One Tattoo Parlor Owner/Artist Trad/Geometric Specialization

dondon8228 @yahoo.com

@tattoosbydondon Instagram

Gila Tattoo Expo Owner/Artist

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I continue to watch people grow around me and make sure I stay on that same path.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I started very young, and people did not respect me, so I had to put it in their faces that I was here to stay.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? My life is tattooing, so my personal life reflects the same ✕

GILA TATTOO EXPO

A father, traveler, and tattoo artist, currently tattooing in Boca Raton, Florida, alongside his brother Tyler Nolan. Chase is an award-winning tattoo artist who has been tattooing since 2015, specializing in blackwork, dotwork, geometric, and floral tattoos. His biggest motivation to keep pushing himself is his son Hayze.

Who / where do you get your inspiration from? Pastorelli_tattoo, Coreydivine, and Raimundo_ramirez.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Do your research!

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My mother was always very supportive of me and anything that I wanted to do. My father, Not so much. He always told me to get a real job.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Meeting new people and talking about life.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I worked for Infinite Irons as a young kid, making parts for tattoo machines. Joey D has always been someone I really looked up to as a friend and business owner.

Who and what influences you to create your work? My clients! I love hearing everyone’s ideas. It’s awesome to be able to take one person’s vision and make it a reality.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Not really! I’m up for any challenge.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? It’s so hard to say. Tattooing has already evolved so much throughout the years. There’s no telling what the future holds!

How has tattooing changed your life? I was pretty wild growing up. I can’t really say that the path I was on was going to get me anywhere. Tattooing saved me. If it wasn’t for tattooing, I’d be dead or in jail. It’s given me a crazy amount of patience and has helped improve my mental health significantly.

Why did you start tattooing? My son being born. Before I knew I was going to be a dad, I was on a downward spiral. My job was not an honest one. Finding out I was going to be a father made me change my life and focus on a career that would benefit my son’s life and my own. ✕

PAM SANDERS TATTOO

BEST OF DAY

I have been tattooing for six years and currently work at one of the best shops in Arizona, Old Town Ink. I am a mother of two, a wife, and a curious being. Respecting nature, creating art, and spreading positivity are important elements of life to me. Aside from doing normal life things like chill’n, camping, lake days, eating, or falling asleep watching movies, my world is tattooing.

I have been so lucky to have been welcomed into this industry. It has provided my family with a life I never imagined. I have never felt more grateful to be here at this moment in time. Tattooing has given me purpose, and I can only hope that I find the right ways to give back

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I’ve made a lot of disappointing decisions in my family’s eyes, but I know they are proud of where I am now. Not everyone felt that this was going to be an actual career for me. It’s been nice to show them I can follow my dreams and my heart. My husband has been and always will be my number one supporter ⸺

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I enjoy the freedom to take breaks when I need them and to adjust my schedule to what fits my life best. I’ve had to move things around to be there for the people I love, so I am grateful for the flexibility and for the clients that let me move things around How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Inspiration comes and goes; it’s constantly changing. I think creating a network of phenomenal and diverse artists inspires me to do the best I can on a daily basis ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? This is the hardest part for me. I get over-involved with my work and the many aspects of it; it can and does take time away from my family, enjoying nature, and connecting with others. It’s something I have to put a lot of thought and energy into so that there remains a healthy balance. I would say this is the top complaint of my loved ones to remain present when my brain is stuck in the tattoo world. ✕

My name is Aaron Valenzuela, but I go by “Smiley.” I was born and raised in the state of Arizona, and I’ve been in the tattoo industry for about 13 years. I’m a versatile artist and can do different styles of tattooing, but my favorite to do are color realism, portraits, and black and grey work. I love challenges, so I enjoy taking on large cover-up projects, too. In my free time, I like to spend time with my wife and my two boys.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Growing up, I’ve always had a passion for art. I was drawn to everything related to art. At 16, I got my first tattoo, and that’s when I realized that was what I wanted to do. As soon as I graduated high school, I started my apprenticeship at 18 years old, and I’ve been tattooing ever since.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It wasn’t hard because I already had art experience with painting and drawing. My apprenticeship was a bit challenging because the artists from that shop had very different styles of tattooing than what I was going for. But I will always be thankful I was given the opportunity.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Technology is always evolving, so you have to keep up with new trends and take advantage of all the resources that we have available.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? Some still think that they are going to be judged for getting a tattoo because they are only for “bad” people. The reality is that times have changed, and it has become very normal for people to express themselves through art.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I would say creating memorable tattoos for clients. Seeing the designs come to life on skin is a very rewarding feeling.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Time management; having a set schedule that separates tattooing time and personal time! ✕

GILA TATTOO EXPO

DULCE

Veruca Dulce specializes in tattoo and boudoir modeling. When she’s not modeling, you can find her behind the front desk at Vegvisir Body Art or traveling with the shop at conventions!

How old were you when you got your first tattoo? What was it? I was 18 when I got my first tattoo. It’s a tribal symbol on my back I am currently having removed. It makes for a great example for clients who come into the shop thinking hard about design, concept, and placement before committing to a tattoo.

Do people treat you differently because of your tattoos? Luckily, judging someone based on their having tattoos is becoming a thing of the past. If anything, I’ve had more interactions about the things I’m passionate about (such as Disney and horror) because of my tattoos. I welcome the conversation!

Who is/are your favorite tattoo artist(s) to get tattooed by? My favorite artist to get tattooed by is the award-winning Connor Foley. He’s done a lot of my work!

Where do you get your tattoo ideas from? I get my tattoo ideas from things that set my soul on fire. My tattoos have mostly been inspired by various books, art forms, and films that hold a special place in my heart.

What is your favorite tattoo that you have? I have so many that I just adore. But, I would have to say my under-bust tattoo is my favorite, not only because it’s a beautiful piece that compliments the area perfectly but also because it was the start of something life-changing.

What’s the longest tattoo session you’ve ever sat through? I’ve sat for 6+ hours.

What is the most painful tattoo that you have? The most painful tattoo that I’ve gotten was the top of my feet.

What’s the next tattoo that you plan to get?

The next tattoo I plan to get is a piece on the back of my calf inspired by my favorite band and favorite cryptid, AFI and Mothman!

Do you have the most tattoos out of your family and friends? I don’t, actually! My dad has a full-body suit!

I am currently a tattoo apprentice in Mesa, Arizona. I made a drastic career change working for the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office for over 10+ years and converted over to the tattoo industry.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I have always been drawn to tattoos and the art of tattooing. I absolutely love getting tattoos; it is very therapeutic for me.

GILA TATTOO EXPO

I wanted to spread my love for tattoos by making artwork of my own.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Put some thought into it first and do your research. Follow them on social media and look at not only their fresh pieces but how their work heals as well. I have noticed that many people get their first tattoo on a whim, usually to just get it covered up years

0 Years

Tattooing

Queen Creek, AZ

Location Independent Artist

Tattoo Apprentice Specialization

sara_chapa @hotmail.com

@tattoos.piercings_by_guera

Instagram

later. I believe tattoos are a representation of themselves. Take your time!

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Everyone has been more than supportive of my career change. I don’t have any family here in Arizona with me, but I have had lots of success with friends and old coworkers letting me tattoo them.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love being in the tattoo industry. I get to meet so many new people through tattooing and networking. I enjoy going to the tattoo conventions and meeting artists and people from all over the world.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I am not a tattoo artist yet, but I love challenging myself to do things that are out of my comfort zone. I love learning things I don’t quite know. From larger pieces to small detailed pieces, the process of making it go from the tablet onto the skin.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It can be quite a balancing act, especially with having three children. We seem to find a way to make it all work.

Where do you see yourself in five years?  I definitely see myself becoming an artist and being able to tattoo full-time. This is not just a job for me. I want to continuously grow in this career. I can’t wait to be able to tattoo at a tattoo convention. ✕

My name is Hex; I’m a non-binary content creator living in Arizona. I’ve always been a lover of all things taboo and obscure, from collecting tattoos and piercings to taxidermy and old antiques to doing “freakshow” art forms such as belly dancing and knife throwing. My newest love that I’ve been studying for the past year is Shibari; it has been an extraordinary journey for me. The less extreme stuff about me: I enjoy coloring in horror coloring books in my downtime and hanging out with my animals a lot.

Lastly, I am an advocate for eating disorder awareness and petite body-positivity; being a survivor myself and struggling with it for many years, I do my best to use my platforms to encourage others to love themselves, let go of shame and show others that being petite is still beautiful ⸺ Do people treat you differently because of your tattoos? I think that really depends on what crowd I’m around. It’s not usual to get a look of horror from one person and a compliment from another within the same grocery visit, but then again, I don’t have warm and cute tattoos from the outside ⸺ Where do you get

your tattoo ideas from? A lot of my tattoos are representations of my astrological sign, Libra. I like my tattoos in some way to express balance. Another major inspiration has been my Greek heritage.My palms say “until life after death” and animals dedicated to certain goddesses I feel a closeness to on my feet ⸺ What’s the longest tattoo session you’ve ever sat through? I believe the longest I’ve sat through was about four hours during the blackwork on my arm ⸺ What is the most painful tattoo that you have? Not to be punny, but hands down the hands, be it fingers or palms, that really sucked. Equally as bad as the toes. They’re just so sensitive ⸺ What’s the next tattoo that you plan to get? I already got it. So the next one would be a piece dedicated to my Popou (grandfather) which will be the largest tattoo I’ve gotten so far that will be my entire torso. ⸺ Do you have the most tattoos out of your family and friends? It’s pretty hard to tell; I run with a lot of groups. Sometimes, I am the most tattooed, and sometimes, my friends have way, way more tattoos than me. In my family, I do believe I have the most. ✕

PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT RYAN LENIHAN

theschoolofinkandarts.com

Artists

3 STITCH NICK

I was born and raised in Southern California but moved to Arizona to follow my dreams. I recently opened my own tattoo shop, Black Plague Tattoo, in Arizona, where I have an awesome group of artists, and I get to really hone my craft. I consider myself a well-rounded artist but specialize in new school and pop culture tattoos that are bright and bold. I love doing a little bit of everything, but in reality, I am just honored I get to do what I love every day ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve always been an artist, drawing on absolutely everything. My uncle, grandpa, and dad had some tattoos, and I was always amazed by the fact that they were forever on their bodies. When I turned 18, I got a few myself and really dove deep into getting myself into the industry ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Research your artist. Be comfortable with them and what they can do. Also, make sure to stay hydrated, get a good night’s sleep the night before, and eat something before your appointment. I would also recommend snacks

if it’s going to be a longer tattoo ⸺ How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I can’t begin to fathom where the industry is headed. We have constant advancements with the machines and equipment, plus all the artists out there pushing the limits on what we can do with a machine. I am really hoping to push myself and the artists at Black Plague Tattoo to keep climbing that ladder and pushing themselves to grow artistically What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Freedom and creativity. I get to take someone’s concepts and ideas and turn them into a beautiful piece of art that gets to live on them forever How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It’s hard, that’s for sure. I try to be present while I’m home with the family, leaving my work stuff at work (at least until everyone goes to bed) and vice versa at work. Having that separation, I feel, really helps keep that balance, although there are times when one spills into the other. ✕

ADAM ZGORLISKI Artist

18 Years

Tattooing

Scenery Hill, PA Location

SmallTownTattoos Owner/Artist

Color Realism/ Creative Realism/Portraits Specialization

smalltownscheduling @gmail.com

@theonlyajax Instagram

My interest in art carried over into the tattoo industry nearly two decades ago, which I’ve been a part of ever since. My studio has more of a lodge vibe rather than a tattoo shop where my fly fishing passion is evident. I love the challenge of color realism and creative realism where there’s little room for error but allows just enough freedom to keep it fun and unique.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My inspiration can come from anywhere at any time but I’m inspired most by supporters and clients who put their faith in me. It’s the most gratifying feeling knowing that another person has that trust in my work. Inspires me to be a better person/artist to make their session here a positive experience.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? The obvious one... It’s permanent. Think about it (but still do it).

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Easy. The freedom. The freedom to be myself. The freedom to be creative. The freedom to travel and live a fulfilling lifestyle. Super grateful!

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I stay motivated and inspired by slowing down and taking some time to myself. I used to work nonstop and often felt burnt out until I felt like I was forcing it. That’s not the case anymore. I try to avoid looking to other artists for inspiration but rather look deeper within myself by taking a few days to fish, mountain

bike, or simply travel and listen to some music. A minor reset does wonders for motivation/inspiration.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? The business aspect is always a challenge for someone like me. There are rules, taxes, due dates, bills, etc. But the biggest daily obstacle is in your next question. Finding a balance between professionalism and personal matters.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Keyword there is balance. ALWAYS make time for yourself. Design and application are demanding, for sure. Being self-motivated can cause an obsession for perfection, but burnout is real in tattooing. Set boundaries and politely yet firmly enforce them, even to friends and family. The real ones will understand. Personal life will always come first; good work will come from happier artists. Don’t force either. ✕

I graduated in architecture and have been successfully working as an architect for many years, developing projects for residential and public buildings throughout Russia. In parallel, I have created graphic and painting works. My clothing prints and tattoo designs have been very successful.I love learning new things, so at some point, I decided to try myself as a tattoo artist and devoted several years to studying techniques, tools, and safety standards and finding my own personal style in tattooing ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I think the most common misconception about tattooing is that it’s easy and simple. Quite often, we receive requests from people who want to enter the industry and ask to be trained. Usually, in the beginning, we ask to see their portfolios. At this stage, 30% of applicants drop out. If a person still comes and shows their portfolio, then I usually give them homework-to study health standards and perform artistic exercises. At this stage, another 50% of the applicants drop out. And those few who

ALENA ZOZULENKO Artist

manage to hold a machine and practice on artificial leather often get disappointed in the process as it is long, hard, and not always successful. In the end, out of 20-30 people who want to be trained as tattoo masters, only one may succeed. The statistics are very interesting Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done?

In seven years of practice, I have had quite a few cool and fun projects. Larger projects often offer more opportunities to explore different textures and details, which can be very exciting for an artist. It’s also a great way to create a cohesive and visually striking piece that tells a story or has a specific theme How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? That’s a great perspective to have. Focusing on your own satisfaction with your work and striving for personal growth and improvement is definitely more important than seeking popularity or external validation. As long as you are happy with your work and you are able to continue creating art that you are proud of, that is what really matters. ✕

Artist

From a young age, Aidan knew exactly the life she wanted to lead and how she wanted to do it—mixing her creative ability and kind soul; tattooing was the clear path for her. Before tattooing, she was working numerous jobs in marketing, advertising, graphic design, and clothing design; all of which helped build a strong foundation before her tattoo career started.

In 2016, Aidan took the leap of faith and left her design job in Philadelphia to move to Los Angeles and pursue her dreams. She had never been to the state or that side of the country, but all of the artists she looked up to and the life she wanted was there. Inspired by the west coast style of tattooing, which includes lettering, blackwork, and realism, she wanted to surround herself with artists she looked up to in hopes of learning how to become the best by being around the best.

Unlike most traditional pathways into a tattoo career, Aidan didn’t do the standard apprenticeship working in a shop for a few years. She started by managing numerous high-end tattoo shops, building relationships, picking people’s brains, and learning as much as possible about tattooing from so many different artists. In 2017, she met Juan Carrillo, also known as BlackFly, who played a major role in her tattoo career. He had his own private studio in LA at the time, saw the passion in Aidan, and helped her get professional tattoo supplies with some starting pointers and a lot of trust.

Aidan took the opportunity to teach herself how to tattoo, practiced on friends and neighbors, and slowly built up her career over the years. However, she did not have the easiest path, and she was dealt a rough hand of cards with some of the toughest medical obstacles one can go through, which took a toll on her life, as well as stopping her ability to tattoo. Aidan has spent most of her life dealing with unexplainable medical issues and a lifelong journey of mysteries. Throughout this time, she has understood the toll it can take on your mind, body, and soul.

During this, she has met all types of people going through numerous health issues just like she has. In 2023, she was finally able to return to work after years of medical challenges, but she used that as fuel to push herself to the next level. From this, she always wanted to figure out the best way to combine her creative artistic skill + love for helping others.

Over the last 10 years, she has spent her time between Philadelphia and Los Angeles drawing, painting, and perfecting her craft while handling some of the toughest medical obstacles imaginable. Now, working at the infamous Inked Magazine in NYC, she thrives off being able to give back to her community and make people feel beautiful and comfortable in their skin. From eyebrows to areola restoration to custom tattoos, she loves every aspect of what she does and continues to help transform lives every day ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? If you’re new to tattooing, I would say the best thing to do is to keep practicing and drawing. Try to find a style or something you like to do the most, and sharpen that skill set so you can consistently be growing in that area and building it up ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? People’s reactions and the gratification of changing a life are what I enjoy the most about tattooing. It feels like I am truly serving a purpose. I love being able to connect with people and the trust that they give me for doing something so special ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I stay inspired and motivate myself as an artist by constantly surrounding myself with other creative people. There is a saying I heard years ago that goes, “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room.” I like to be the least knowledgeable in a room full of people so I can keep growing and building. ✕

ALEX SORSA Artist

Have you ever encountered people copying your art or tattoos? What do you think about people doing that? Let’s break this question into two parts. The first part concerns a group of people inspired by my work. They’re attempting something on their own or copying onto paper or fake skin to practice and hone their skills. This group always evokes positive emotions. Some of them don’t know how to harness this inspiration, so they borrow my stylistic techniques for their pieces. Others are truly talented artists who might be inspired by a concept or idea but endeavor to put their own twist on it. That’s invigorating and something I deeply respect.

However, there’s another dimension to this issue in our industry. Some take a tattoo photo, trace it, and reproduce the entire piece without consideration for potential modifications. They rationalize their actions, claiming it’s a learning process, but that’s not accurate. They profit from this. They justify their actions by claiming everyone copies or that their job might be at stake if they declined such requests. However, even if that were the case, there’s no compulsion to post and showcase such work. Practicing is crucial, but how does reproducing another’s work truly benefit one’s development? Original designs are where genuine skill improvement lies.

Often, individuals who desire one of my tattoos but reside too far away ask for a design or an existing piece. I clarify my stance on the matter, emphasizing the significance of my stylistic pursuits and my preference that they not be replicated by others. On the rare occasion when a client requests a replica of my work or another artist’s, I explain my position and work to understand their attraction to the specific piece. My goal is to design something distinct yet in line with their preferences.

Many individuals share with me replicas of my tattoos done by other

artists. Over time, I’ve amassed a large collection. Until recently, I never shared these, but I became curious about my followers’ reactions. They argued that imitation should be a form of flattery and that everyone does it. However, that’s not acceptable. It involves someone else’s effort and creativity. I remember my time How can someone find their unique style? Do you have any advice? To begin with, one useful strategy is to refrain from following tattoo artists you admire during your research phase. Secondly, you should aim to pinpoint your interests, not necessarily within the tattoo realm but more broadly. This could be in fields like design or cinema, to name a few. However, it should be external to the tattoo industry. Once you have your findings, print them out and organize them in a dedicated sketchbook. Analyze everything you’ve gathered. Beside each image, jot down what captivated you. It could be a specific detail of the image or the overall feeling it evokes.

Once you’ve amassed a substantial amount of external research, you can revisit the works of tattoo artists you admire. Print out your favorite designs from these artists, add them to your sketchbook, and dive deeper into your analysis. When you’ve concluded your research, begin sketching. The goal is to craft a tattoo influenced by your external research. Your primary challenge is to design something distinct from the styles of the tattoo artists you admire. When you stumble upon an intriguing concept, scrutinize it, and consider ways to refine and evolve it.

Such brainstorming invigorates your mind, leading to more productive and innovative outcomes. It’s imperative to continuously self-evaluate and self-criticize. With perseverance and diligence, you can achieve commendable results. Remember, the objective isn’t solely about beauty; it’s about crafting something distinct and unparalleled. ✕

I have been tattooing for 20 years; I originally opened my shop in 2007! I specialize in black and grey realism but love all kinds of styles. I am a husband, father, and artist.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

Ever since I was young, I have had a natural ability to draw; I always loved that tattoos were a permanent form of art, one that goes everywhere the wearer goes and lasts longer than we do ourselves.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? At the time, there were not many people looking to teach. I eventually found a place; it was a very typical oldschool apprenticeship; I washed the cars, got the food, and cleaned everything and anything else that was asked.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My first real inspiration was Bob Tyrell, as he was incredibly talented at black and grey realism; when I first started new school was huge, and seeing someone create portraits on the skin the way he does was mind-blowing.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? The best advice I can give is to research your artist and go to the artist that specializes in what you are looking for to get the best result; just because people recommend one artist over others doesn’t mean they are the right one for you.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

I enjoy most that I get to have a career doing something that I love! It’s nice not to hate going to work every day.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I think it is important to try new things so that you don’t become stagnant. Always try and learn and advance.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I try my best to balance both, but family comes first. I had to realize years ago that I worked too much and needed to be home more; now I have a great balance between seeing my kids grow up and still having time for my clients and art!. ✕

ANDREW THE BOSS SKINNER

20

As far back as I can remember, I was always drawing, and I always dreamt of becoming a tattoo artist. The fact that I get to wake up every day and have the opportunity to do what I love as a career is still astounding to me. I currently live and work in southern New Hampshire - You can find far more of my work on my Instagram profile, ANONEISON.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of my job is having artistic freedom. I have some clients that really trust me to be creative - and those are always my favorite pieces. It never feels like Im working, Im drawing, and time just flies by.

ANONEISON Artist

8 Years Tattooing Windham, NH Location

Requiem Tattoo Owner/Artist

B&G Realism/ Portraiture Specialization

mac.ashley @gmail.com

@anoneison Instagram

anoneison .com

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I feel like a lot of people that haven’t been tattooed think the process is far shorter than it actually is; I also think they might think the designing and stenciling time is short. To have someone cancel or change their idea last minute is gut-wrenching after spending hours designing and stenciling. And then, of course, the tattooing aspect always takes a minimum of 5-8 hours for the designs I do.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

Tattooing isn’t my job; it’s my passion. I love the fact that I have the capability to be creative. I could sit and tattoo for hours and feel like time just flys by. My favorite, though, is when clients give me artistic freedom. When I can do portraits with my own twist on them, the west coast style women, or creepier women, or gangster style portraits.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Through my peers and through continuing to draw and paint! I love seeing what twists people in the community are doing. I love watching everyone’s progress, whether it be through art or tattooingand Im constantly trying to do this myself. I feel each individual is their own greatest critic and their best inspiration. Only you can force yourself to learn more, and you can only learn through doing more. ✕

Hello, my name is Jesse Ashenfelter (Ash) born and raised in the Midwest. Outside of tattooing, I’m in the US ARMY. Recently came back from my first combat deployment and decided to pursue my dream of becoming a tattoo artist.

I feel blessed to have made it this far. This is the beginning of my journey. It all started by walking into the right shop and meeting James Keller! Keller Tattoo is located in downtown Rochester on Broadway ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? From the beginning, my family has supported me every step of the way, from being deployed overseas to being a tattoo artist. My boss James Keller has motivated me to become an even better tattoo artist

and has also given me much inspiration ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Getting to meet so many diverse people of all share a common love for the art! What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve always loved tattoos. While I was deployed, I ordered a machine and taught myself during my combat deployment just to help pass the time; I only ever planned on tattooing the fake skin ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t rush anything.

Learn the fundamentals first, line work, pepper shading, and practice on fake skin or, my personal favorite — ORANGES!. ✕

ASHLEE MSHAR

I’m Ashlee, and I have been an artist since birth, from being a fouryear-old drawing for my parents, to now being a professional tattoo artist. My goal in life is to leave a mark on the world. Being able to leave my art on people is truly the greatest gift for me. I was born in Florida and moved to Virginia when I was five. In school, I participated in art shows and loved art class with my whole heart

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I think a common misconception of the industry is that every shop and artist is similar. When, in reality, it is important to research where you are going, everyone and every place is different. Some shops take walk-ins, and that may be what you are looking for. Some shops are privately owned and are appointment-only. That’s why it is so important to research exactly what you are looking for ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I feel like being a woman has not been the easiest thing in this industry. I have been told that people only go to me for the way I look, which is why I try to strictly post art on my platforms.

I HAD A VERY OLD-SCHOOL APPRENTICESHIP, AND IT WAS DIFFICULT, BUT IN THE END, EVERYTHING WAS A LEARNING EXPERIENCE

I had a very old-school apprenticeship, and it was difficult, but in the end, everything was a learning experience ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I am a mom, daughter, sister, etc. It was hard to find balance at first. I think finding the right shop for me was very important. Where I work now, they are very family-oriented, and I’m very grateful for that. I am the only parent to my kids, and they need me; I will put them first always. Now I work Monday through Friday, and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done

What is your favorite subject matter? I love tattooing a variety of things: skulls, daggers, animals, anime, pop culture, ornamental, and glitter, so there are many options to choose from! ⸺ What type of color work do you do? I enjoy bold colors! I love glitter tattoos, which are just colored dots to give a glitter effect. I enjoy Neo-traditional and illustrative style colors. I really enjoyed playing with color palettes. I can do anything from bright colors to pastel kawaii What is your favorite type of black and grey to do? I love dark gothic black work, ornamental, and fineline; I really enjoy playing with contrast. ✕

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My father got his first tattoo when I was fourteen.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I was very lucky in how swiftly I was able to get an apprenticeship, with more than one offer to choose from.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? International art and architecture, pop culture, and food.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My parents and partner are my biggest fans and have supported me through my apprenticeship and career in every sense of the word.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I am able to collect my clients’ collections. I only have so much blank slate left, so the work I do for other people becomes mine, without me actually wearing them.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I refuse to participate in anti semitism and/or white nationalist ideas.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I have been urinated on during a tattoo. That is how I found out the client had fainted.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Tattoos may be permanent, but everything can be fixed.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I am curious to see what kind of role artificial intelligence plays in the industry. I am looking forward to the possibilities.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That I can afford a yacht, or that I care about partying.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Tattooing is my immortality. I could be hit by a train tomorrow, but the tattoo I did the day before will still be there, and maybe someday their grandchild will get a matching tattoo to remember them, and so on.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? To quote tattooer Cliff Collard, “The next one!”

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Poorly. I have trouble turning it off when I get home. ✕

AUDREY TATE Artist

AURA JANE Artist

Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, at The LAst Gallery on Magazine St., Aura Jane is a multi-dimensional artist who u ses several mediums to convey her artwork. Having maintained a successful career in tattooing since 2007, her fine art, surrealist, modern contemporary, sculpting, and performing arts background has shaped her into the wellrounded artist she is today.

Drawing inspiration from her multicultural upbringing, traveling the world from a young age as well as interacting with people from many walks of life, her mediums are not limited to but include tattooing as well as rendering digital art, painting in watercolor and acrylics, sculpting, and woodworking.

Tattooing has been a huge part of her life and self-identity; skin as a canvas is something she enjoys working with, meeting and collaborating with people to create permanent works that stand the test of time. Pushing the boundaries of her abilities and also what’s possible in this field is something that she strives for. Every tattoo is personal and unique, just as every individual seeking to get tattooed. Rendering art in the skin to compliment the body, skin tone, personality, and identity of the client is extremely important, as well as putting thought into the works to create living art. Healing through body art, one tattoo at a time.

To date, Aura has been a part of the Sketchbook Project through the Brooklyn Art Library with the Spooky Babe Coalition, a dark art collective, featured and exhibited at Inked In The Alley, an exhibition and art market at The Hattiesburg Pocket Museum in Hattiesburg, MS, two showings with The Maven Gallery and one exhibition at The LAst Gallery on Magazine in New Orleans, Louisiana. She debuted with The Maven Gallery, Pelligrino Art Lab, and Visa Je Graffitti Studio in Bogota, Colom-

bia, as a part of a US and Colombian collaboration of artists in 2022. She continues to travel to tattoo full time at her private studio in New Orleans, Louisiana, and guest spot in Nashville, Tennessee, as well as other areas of the USA. She also performs with a New Orleans-based theatre production Glamrock Superfoxx, whilst creating sculpted graphic art and curating a rollerskate community called Geaux Roll ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I was never formally trained; actually, I fell into tattooing by accident after being refused an apprenticeship anywhere, and everywhere I applied. The person who was supposed to be my mentor of sorts just decided one day that he wanted me to tattoo him, and I was put through a hazing series of tests; after four tattoos, he had me tattooing full time, taking in all the walk-ins and after a month he forced me to try to teach my best friend at the time, who really actually just wanted to pierce. Talk about the blind leading the blind! Thankfully we made it through to become proficient at what we do. I later came to realize that my “mentor” actually had no idea what he was doing and so could never really teach me anything.

I do wish I had received a positive apprenticeship experience. I do believe that I wouldn’t have struggled for so long given the more appropriate conditions. I’m not ashamed of my beginnings, but I always encourage others who are interested in learning to really take the time to learn to draw, as well as to learn how to draw in a tattoo format. That it isn’t as easy as what we make it look like at times. And for those who I have been lucky enough to teach, I’ve tried to give them all the support and encouragement they need as well as instill all the good habits and skills, technical information about machines and including cleaning and sterilization procedures to keep themselves and the client safe. ✕

2 Years Tattooing

Augusta, ME Location

Independent Artist

B&G Realism/ Stylized Realism Specialization

benviolettetats @gmail.com

@benviolettetattoos Instagram

benviolettetattoos .com

I grew up in Belgrade, Maine, and I’m currently living around the Augusta area. I’ve been tattooing for two years, and I currently work at Saylorink Tattoo, but starting early next year, I will be moving to Arizona and working out of That One Tattoo Parlor.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Since I can remember, I’ve always been drawing or painting. I was going to school chasing a degree, and I was miserable. At the time, I was designing my own tattoos, and my roommate actually gave me the idea.

BEN VIOLETTE

Artist

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Mine, honestly, just fell into my lap. I was going to get tattooed regularly by my now good friend Dustin at Saylorink, and I had casually brought it up to him. It actually surprised me when he offered the apprenticeship after just a couple of conversations.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love coming to work every single day and just making art. I get to hang out with like-minded individuals, laugh, and joke with clients and coworkers, and I literally get to draw on people all day. Just to have clients who have seen your art and like it so much that they want it on them permanently is incredibly flattering.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Genital tattoos are definitely a no-go for me, as are any hate or discriminatory tattoos. Aside from that, I won’t tattoo any throats or faces if the person isn’t already heavily tattooed. Hands are tricky because tattoos are becoming more accepted, but I will normally just have a conversation with the client and tell them about potential issues they might have. Generally, people still want to go through with it, but at least they were able to form an educated opinion before just rushing into something, which I think is very important.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Oh plenty! My favorite story is about a guy that I was tattooing who just walked two miles in a snowstorm with his girlfriend to get his first tattoo. He was very obviously nervous and kept second-guessing the design. Finally, after we had finalized a tiny little design and applied it, he heard my machine startup and started trembling. No exaggeration; I pulled a line maybe 1/4 inch long, and he ripped his arm away and started screaming. I tried to stay as professional as I could and tried to convince him to finish the tattoo, but he was not having it. His girlfriend was so irritated she took off without him. I’m not sure how that ended up working out. ✕

Art is my pathway to peace!! That was my motto and belief during my 16 years of incarceration, and it still holds true today. My name is Billy; I began drawing during my years of incarceration; it brought me peace as I was able to be in my own world and not be bothered by my surrounding. However, I was always drawn to tattoos. Growing up, I saw a lot of other guys with tattoos and always took a liking to it, but I never took it seriously and definitely never thought of becoming a tattoo artist.

California state prisons are notoriously known for their brutal environments, hard politics, and being heavily overpopulated. Every day was a different game navigating the system. However, when I began drawing, I discovered a sense of peace that I did not know existed in that place. It doesn’t matter what was going on, whether I was in the hole or on the line I was always afforded paper and pencil. That was one thing they couldn’t confiscate from me. I began diving deeper into my art and spent most of my day drawing. It was my escape, and I loved it.

Fast forward to June 15, 2022, I was granted parole and never looked back. Two months later, I joined Inkdica Tattoo in San Jose, California. Today I get to do what I love, building my portfolio one piece at a time. It is very motivating

Artist

BILLYDAKID

that my clients trust me with their vision and collaboration to bring it to life. I’d described my style as black and grey and traditional realism. I love traditional artworks, but to be able to add in realism concepts such as light source, perspective, shadows, etc… really gives life to traditional Asian artworks. Future clients can book with me via email: booking. kiddo54@gmail.com.

I do what I love and love what I do, and there’s always room to grow. If I can go back, I’ll do the same thing all over, no changes; my personal experience made me who I am, uniquely flawed.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My path to becoming a tattoo artist is not conventional. I don’t think I really ever did an apprenticeship; everything I learned was trial and error. But I do have to give credit to art books; I read and followed a lot of instructions based on all the art books I’ve studied during my years of incarceration.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? There’s always room to grow; practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to fail. No good artist has gotten good without failing. Tattooing is more than just picking up a machine. Understanding composition and art is more important.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? Easy money!!! But you have no idea how much tattooing will consume your life. The more you do, the better you want to get; the better you want to get, the more it will consume your life. ✕

B&G Realism/ Trad Realism Specialization

booking.kiddo54 @gmail.com

@kiddo_inkdica Instagram kiddoarte .com

8 Years Tattooing San Jose, CA Location Independent Artist

I’m a New Jersey-based tattooer with a specialization in traditional tattoos with a horror twist. I love to take horror movie characters and transform them into American traditional-style tattoo designs for my clients Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My main source of inspiration is horror movies and books. Anything from Friday the 13th to Stephen King to Lord of the Rings. I love to draw anything creepy and macabre. I also draw a lot of inspiration from medieval etching art for my illustrative work, along with fantasy artwork ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Eat a big meal and drink water before your appointment, and know that it’s going to hurt a lot less than you think it will ⸺

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? It’s difficult to pick a favorite. My wife has a lot of my favorite tattoos I’ve done on her, which is great because I have to look at them every day ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I stay motivated and inspired by constantly seeking out inspiration by

BLAKE AUSTIN Artist

buying books, watching movies, and checking out the work of other artists (both in and outside of tattooing). I don’t like to wait around for inspiration to come to me, so I try to find it in everything I do ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Tattooing can be very difficult mentally and emotionally. It’s an industry with a lot of competition, and nowadays, you can’t just be a good tattooer; you have to be a social media and marketing expert just to stay relevant. It’s very easy to feel down about yourself and your work over likes and follows. It’s hard on anxiety, and the imposter syndrome never really goes away How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? The most important part of the work-life balance is to give yourself real days off when you need them. Not days to catch up on emails or drawing, but days to actually rest and recover and mentally reset when you need it. This is how I balance my professional life with my personal life. ✕

I went to art college and got a degree in Graphic Design/Illustration.

Halfway through college, I started a weekly news and entertainment publication with a group of gentlemen in Omaha, Nebraska. I did that for quite a few years before getting involved with a tattoo apprenticeship. I instantly became obsessed. I now have been tattooing going on 15 years. As a military spouse, I have tattooed in Nebraska, Georgia, Kansas, North Carolina, Mississippi, Louisiana, and many other states doing guest spots and conventions. A little over a year ago, I was finally able to open my own studio in New Orleans, Louisiana, called SwampWater Studio. I plan on hopefully dying with a tattoo machine in my hand.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? All of it. The creation of the tattoo is, of course, amazing, but researching and developing your client’s interaction… all of that is incredible too.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) At this point, not really - unless it’s gang-related or a swastika. I’ll give someone my honest

opinion on all of it, some of the typical warnings, but man… Your body, your choice. I don’t like people telling me what I should be doing, and as long as you are aware of the consequences and permanence of a tattoo, let’s go.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Luckily it’s not like this anymore, but man… and I’m not really one to push any kind of stereotypes or agendas or any of that political crap… but I had to work really hard to separate my gender from the first half of my career. Whether it was clients or people, I worked with… I made sure they knew that I wanted the worst projects, the most disgusting cleaning jobs in the shop. I made sure I showed up first and left last. I didn’t want people looking at me and my art and assigning a gender or an “expectation” to it. That drives me nuts. People will come in and say some really out-oftouch things like “Yeah, I prefer women to tattoo on me because they’re so much more gentle,” and then I’ll fire up my Waller and let them know about all the men I’ve been tattooed by and how they are way more gentle than I could ever be. Or “Man, I just don’t think men can draw very well…” Some of my most respected art icons are men. You can’t put an artist in a gender box. You just can’t. I know there are a lot of people who will argue with me about it, but art goes above and beyond every stereotype you think you know. ✕

BRANDI BRUCE Artist

15 Years

Tattooing

New Orleans, LA Location

SwampWater Studio Owner/Artist

Stylized Trad/B&G Specialization

swampwaterstudio @gmail.com

@swampwaterstudio Instagram

BXD SEED Artist

My name is Bethany and I am 22 years old, tattooing out of Black Madonna Tattoos here in Lake Worth for the last 2 years What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Just breathe. Beauty is pain, but the pain is temporary. And please shower before your appointment Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will outright refuse any kind of hate speech or gang-affiliated tattoos. I refuse to further the spread of any kind of hatred to any group What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That we’re all mean, I have so many clients that are super timid and nervous. We’re not all bad like we’re portrayed in movies. Some of us are just as nervous as you ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Bringing my work to life on skin, it’s so rewarding to see the smile on a client’s face when they look in the mirror ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Working through art block is torturous, but remind -

ing myself who I’m doing all of this for keeps me going ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? While the industry has certainly matured and become more open to strong female artists, I’ve still come across clients who refuse to work with me and rather work with a male artist in the shop ⸺ Have you ever had to fire a client/stop working with someone? I once had to stop working with a client due to poor hygiene. This client had insane B.O., and other clients and artists in the shop complained of the smell; it was so bad ⸺ What is the biggest client pet peeve? When a client persistently pushes to lower the price of a tattoo. It’s totally understandable to have a budget, but when they are super rude or demeaning, it’s really annoying ⸺ How would you explain your style? It can be so hard to put it into words, but my work has a root in traditional but also this very femme and gentle undertone with edgy subject matter. It’s basically me in a tattoo. ✕

I was born and raised in Colorado, where I graduated from my apprenticeship in 2015. In 2018, I moved to Indiana and have resided here in The Region. Outside of tattooing, I enjoy various forms of art, spending time outside, hiking, and RV camping. Since becoming a “Region Rat,” I have gained my own little family along with a more positive outlook on life and am grateful that my cup continues to overflow.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The most important advice for new tattooers is to be respectful of your clientele and take each moment to learn something new. Clients are paying for your time and artwork, so keep the communication line open.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? The tattoo industry will become more advanced, so it’s important to stay relevant by continuing to learn new ways to apply tools for creating and keeping up on continued education. I will stay open-minded within the chaos and take advantage of any knowledge I get my hands on.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Literally every single part about it.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done?

I am constantly learning and building, so my favorite tattoo changes on a daily basis.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I’m inspired by all forms of tattoorelated subjects, along with movies, nature, and anything shiny.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Anxiety.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I’m still trying to figure that part out.

Do you need a reference photo? There are a few different ways I can create a tattoo for you:

You can go through my portfolio and send me tattoos that I’ve done that you like so I can see what type of style you want.

I do a lot of research for each tattoo that I do, so I can do the research and find references for you.

For the best result in a design, being open to my creativity will lead to a unique piece solely for you.

If your design is from a movie, TV show, book, etc., please let me know so that I can cross reference during research.

Tell me the story, and I’ll create an image for you. ✕

CAMILLIA MACQUEEN

PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLLIN PERRYMAN

Artist

Cory Cartwright loves to make neo-traditional and illustrative tattoos using bold linework and saturated colors. He is most inspired when his clients have an idea for the subject of their tattoo and are excited to see what he can do with their trust to create something unique and interesting What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I was always drawing in high school throughout my school days. Around the same time, my girlfriend’s mom was always getting tattooed and would even take us with her to the tattoo studio to watch. I was highly fascinated with the fact that I could mark someone forever with my art ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It was difficult at the time to find a shop offering apprenticeships. I ended up going through two partial “apprenticeships” before finding one where my mentors actually told me to forget everything I had learned at the first two. My first apprenticeship was right out of high school at 17 years old. It was at the shop my girlfriend’s mom went to. My second one was two hours

away from my home, and I commuted there for six months. The last opportunity was just down the road from the second shop, and they were top-notch. I knew I needed to be there. Once I got under the right people there, I started to learn really fast. The standard was just higher

What are your favorite hobbies to do outside of tattooing?

Watching the back of my eyelids... just kidding... kinda. I enjoy reading, painting, and video games, but being an artist, shop owner, dad, and husband doesn’t leave me much time for those currently If you had to choose another career, what would it be? My first thought is to be a chef or video game streamer, but at this point in my life, I would love to be a stay-at-home dad What challenges you to be the best you can be daily? I struggle with second-guessing myself in order to find the optimal path to any situation. This leaves me holding myself back from completing or even starting small tasks. This is something I have been working on over the last year, though, so that I can trust in my instincts and exercise the skills I have obtained. ✕

A creative transgender tattoo artist hailing from Salt Lake City, Utah, who embarked on his tattooing journey in 2019. Now 26 years old, Angell’s passion led him to Denver, Colorado, where he opened an LGBTQ+ safe shop, Sad Circus Studio, with the support of his husband, a seasoned professional. With a commitment to a different kind of tattooing experience, Angell infuses every piece of art with emotions and love. His style, charcoal textured drawings reimagined on skin and 3D reconstructed areolas, draws clients in and shows them a new sort of euphoria.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? The difficulty of finding an apprenticeship stems from the industry being so closed off on how to find one. I soon just took knowledge from my portfolio classes and decided to email and bug every shop I knew until someone would consider me. It took a lot of people telling me I wouldn’t ever be able to be something until my first apprenticeship accepted me. Unfortunately, they just wanted me for money and had no real intention of teaching me. It wasn’t until I met my now husband that he offered to teach me. It was hard packing up from my old shop, but it was such a relief when I saw improvement within my first few tattoos under a new mentor. That second apprenticeship lasted a year, but I’m lucky enough to still get to learn from him every day.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I think the tattoo industry is changing in the way that we all get to show clients that they are allowed to have their own autonomy. No more just going to an artist who won’t listen to them or is downright disrespectful. I think everyone is honing in on their own style in the right move, and I think as long as I keep drawing every day and working on improving myself, I’ll stay relevant.

What got you started in your style? My husband actually pushed me into the charcoal style. It was always a medium I liked to use in college. I enjoyed how organic it could feel, and I also just enjoyed the grainy texture. I didn’t realize I’d love it in skin until I actually started offering it. ✕

Artist

Hi, my name is Crystal Mercedes. I’m 27 years old and based out of Sacramento, CA, and I like to permanently doodle on skin ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It was very intimidating trying to find an apprenticeship with the right shop. Being a female especially, I wanted to make sure that the environment I was going to be in made me feel comfortable. I worked on my art portfolio and went door to door to different shops. I finally landed an apprenticeship the following year ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? For my anime work, I get my inspiration from different shows I watch or video games that I play. I get my black and grey realism inspiration from my coworkers at Peaks and Valleys ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? LEARN YOUR FUNDAMENTALS. Whether you’re starting on your own or through an apprenticeship. Really take your time in learning how to pull solid, clean lines. Your line work will make or break your tattoo ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I enjoy creating, as simple as it sounds. I’ve always

CRYSTAL MERCEDES

loved art, so the fact that I get to do this for a living is still mind-blowing ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? It’s hard to pick just one! Every new tattoo I do honestly becomes my new favorite because I always strive to improve better than my last ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I stay motivated by watching other tattoo artists on Instagram who specialize in the same style I do. Also, my coworkers at Peaks and Valleys keep me motivated because if I ask them for any tips, I know I can rely on their help Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? One of the biggest challenges is finding the right balance between work life, home life with my family, and time for my own self-care How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I find working no more than four days a week is really helpful. Especially since the days I work are typically full 12+hr shifts. Some weeks are more exhausting than others, which is why I try to take full advantage of my days off. ✕

DANNY MCCAY Artist

Started tattooing in Glasgow after graduating with a degree in Fine Arts from John Moores Liverpool. I’m a self-taught artist. Opened up Anchor and Rose Tattoo in my hometown of Strabane in 2011 and have been working away since then, always seeking to progress and immerse myself in the industry What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Getting tattooed, and probably the music I listened to ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It was very hard; I tried for about 18 months to get one before teaching myself ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They have been very supportive from day one; they are literally the best. Rip Steve X ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The process and gratification of a job well done ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Offensive content ⸺ How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to

stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Hard to say it’s been changing so fast, but il stay focused on fundamentals and work on anything new as it comes ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I take inspiration from so many different aspects in day-to-day life; music, art, and experiences Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Not doing an apprenticeship still annoys me to this day; every day is a school day in tattooing How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Very hard at times to have my Molly and four young children, but they are supportive and help me through it love them loads and love tattooing, so it’s all worth it ⸺ Have you done a guest spot? And where was your first? Yes, I’ve done guest spots. It’s always an honor. My first was in Semper (David Cordens Studio) was amazing, and I will be guesting at Love Hate Miami (Miami Ink) in January, which still blows my mind. ✕

50 years old straightedge since 2006 (no drugs, alcohol, or tobacco). Been in the industry since 1995. Started in Tucson, AZ, moved home (Lake Charles, LA) in 2005, and opened up my studio. Sponsors are Axys Rotary, Sacred Heart tattoo ink, Glamcor Professional Lighting, CLn Skin Care, and PURE straight edge clothing. I tour full-time and also do in-studio.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

Grew up on the West Coast and just loved the whole energy of shops.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? Just had to come up with the money and bugged the hell out of them. Apprenticeship itself was horrible: free labor.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? There are so many epic young artists out there today who constantly inspire me on Instagram.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? DON’T. They’re addictive.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Mom completely supports me.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job?

Touring and meeting new artists all over.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Face won’t do. Hands are a last resort if you’re covered.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Listen to the old cats. They’re here and have lasted for a reason. Can’t let knowledge slip away. Practice, and don’t get discouraged.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Man, everything is changing: machines, ink, cordless, battery packs.

I have epic sponsors, and they make sure our teams stay up to date-with everything.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Tour and talk to artists.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist?

I’m color-blind, but I am known for my new school full-color stuff.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It’s easy: work, then turn off the phone. ✕

DARIN OWENS Artist

Artist

Born and raised in Arizona. I lived all over the state but mainly around Tucson for the most part. I started my career with my apprenticeship in Denver, Colorado, under Mark Newman at Pompous Zombie Tattoo when I was 28 years old. I’ve been tattooing for just over ten years now, and I’ve been living in Cheyenne, Wyoming, for a little over four years and just opened my first shop, Neon Hannya Tattoo, with my friend Scott Schultz this year.

I have a wife and two children. My wife Leslie and I have been together for eight years now, and my teenage kids are, well, teenage kids. They keep me on my toes for sure ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I had an interest in tattoos since I was a little kid. I loved the self-expression of wearing artwork on your body by awesome artists What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family has been the biggest support for me while doing this ⸺ What would you say is

your favorite part of the job? Drawing pictures and not having to go to work until noon! ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I refuse to do anything political or hate related Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I’d rather focus the interview on the positive stuff ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? This is much easier said than done. Being a tattoo artist will take over your entire life if you let it. Sometimes it’s easy to let it take over because we obviously love doing this and love artwork. My balance is between my family and spending time with them. I go on individual dates out with my kids to make sure I am keeping up with what is going on with their lives and what they are up to. Taking time off just for me and my wife, as well as family trips, are also super important to keep my sanity. Those breaks are crucial so I do not get burnt out on this career that I really love. ✕

DARYL HARDY

I’m Dean Fitzgerald. I’m a 26-year-old tattoo artist from Boston, MA; I was raised just north in Lawrence, Massachusetts. I fell in love with tattooing at the age of 14, and I’ve been working and learning since.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? It was seeing Mister Cartoon’s work. I’ll never forget it, I was 14. I spent every dollar I had on tattoo magazines. His work was magic. It was something special; it took me to a place. I grew up in a tattooed family, so I was always in the environment. I had an older cousin and close family friend who tattooed. I’d sit around, make stencils, and soak up as much information as I could. Eventually, it caught my friend’s attention; he shared a lot of information with me. For that, I am forever grateful, thanks Jake.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Do your research. There are thousands of artists out there. Pick the right one. You both want to feel comfortable with each other; the experience is everything. Make sure the piece you want is something you’ll wear forever, and make sure your artist is the one who can execute this for you.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were hesitant. I knew what I wanted to be doing. I have massive support from them today. I can’t thank them enough! To anyone out there with dreams, keep dream chasing!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The end result. There’s a lot of preparation and trust that goes into this. So, I definitely appreciate all the steps. There is nothing more satisfying than delivering the final message and seeing the final result. The reaction on both the client’s body and face is a memory and photo I hold onto forever.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Stay humble, and always be willing to learn. Don’t ever get complacent. Surround yourself with other ambitious artists, and align yourself with people you want to be like. It’s a beautiful industry; go after it. Don’t get in it for the wrong reasons.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? The gym, meditation, family time, prayer, and clean eating.

Who are your favorite artists? Eric Marcinizyn, Mister cartoon, Jun Cha, Jose Lopez, Maliea flowers, and Nikko Hurtado. ✕

6 Years Tattooing

B&G/Illustrative Realism Specialization

d.fitzgeraldtattoos @gmail.com

@dean_fitzgerald Instagram

DEREK SHEEHAN

Working out of Oak & Iron Salon and Tattoo in Buffalo, NY. With over 16 years of experience, Derek enjoys working in a variety of styles with a primary focus on fine-line black work. He loves working with his clients to create custom pieces ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve always had an interest in tattooing and art. What sold me was the artist who did my first tattoo. It was a one-man, small town shop. He didn’t seem to be making a killing, but he seemed absolutely happy to be doing what he loved ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? About five years ago, I came across Paul Davies’s work and thought it was incredible and has since inspired me to find my own style What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? When I first started tattooing, my friends thought it was cool. My parents, on the other hand, were against tattoos; since starting, though, my father now has two full sleeves ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Aside from tattooing itself and seeing my client thrilled with the final outcome. I would really have to say my favorite part is the drawing process, spending hours every night creating a brandnew piece of art ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I can’t say that there is a favorite of all time. Lately, I’ve been incorporating faces into my designs, and I’ve been having a lot of fun with it....ask me in five years; I might have an entirely different answer How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Honestly, I’m lucky to be able to create for a living; I only in the last few years have actually found my style. After years of tattooing, it still feels fresh, and I want to see how far I can push myself with it How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? This is one of the biggest obstacles for me. I dedicate a lot of time to tattooing at the shop and at home. I try to set specific time aside to not involve myself with work when I come home, keep set days off, and carve out vacation time in my book months ahead. ✕

My name is Desiree. I specialize in botanical/ nature illustrative tattoos. I have been in the industry since 2012. I am beyond grateful for my clients who give me their trust, embrace my process, and allow me to put my art on their bodies forever. It is an absolute honor and a privilege! I hope you can feel the love I have for my craft, the thoughtfulness in my work, and the effort I have put into making every client’s individual experience so very special.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours?

Starting my journey for an apprenticeship in the tattoo industry proved to be an arduous and costly path. Fresh out of high school in 2012, I found myself navigating the predominantly male-dominated field in search of a mentor.

Eventually, I managed to secure an apprenticeship, but it came at a steep price of 5k.

As an apprentice, I worked tirelessly cleaning the shop, setting up and breaking down the artists’ stations, scrubbing tubes, and running errands. I was challenged with odd tasks reminiscent of Mr. Miyagi’s teachings. Tasks like filling in a paper towel with a ballpoint pen and ensuring every inch was pitch black. If the paper ripped, I had to start all over.

The sacrifices I made during those early days of my apprenticeship laid the foundation for my growth as a tattoo artist. Looking back, I am grateful for the opportunity to prove my dedication and commitment to this craft.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing?

Do not give up!! Learning a new medium is always challenging, especially with the high stakes of creating permanent art on real people. These individuals entrust you with their bodies, feel the pain, and invest their hardearned money in you.

Believe in yourself and your abilities, but keep an open mind to improve and grow. Embrace constructive criticism and use it as a tool for learning and development. Each critique can be an opportunity to refine your skills to become a better artist.

Sharing your work with others for their evaluation is undeniably challenging. It may rattle your self-assurance in ways that you have yet to fathom. On the flip side, if you persevere, you will ultimately reap the rewards of being a part of an extraordinary industry brimming with eccentric individuals who wholeheartedly indulge in their passion for art. ✕

Artist

My name is Diogo Nunes; I’m a Portuguese tattoo artist based in the heart of New York City’s Manhattan. I started in the tattooing industry in Algarve, Portugal, where I worked as an apprentice for the first time in 2006, and then continued my apprenticeship later in Lisbon for two years to learn the craft.

Art has always been a huge part of my life. I started drawing when I was just three years old, and my mom would always give me pencils and paper to keep me busy and entertained or out of trouble. I have developed a love for listening to music while working, which is something that’s stayed with me to this day.

My tattoo style is my own, and it’s something that’s developed over many years of hard work and dedication. I specialize in dark/horror surrealism and realism, with a street art touch to it.

I love creating designs that are both haunting and beautiful at the same time. I’m always pushing myself to improve and innovate, and my clients from all over the world trust me to create something truly

unique for them.

I’m fortunate to be sponsored by some of the best companies in the industry, including Kwadron, Inkmachines, Eternal Ink, H2Ocean, Tattoo Armour, and Barber DTS. I’ve also been featured in several tattoo magazines, like Tattoo Life Magazine, and have won numerous awards for my work. It’s truly an honor to be recognized for something that I’m so passionate about.

In my spare time, I love to paint with oil and acrylic on canvas. It is a way for me to study the color hues and values, contrasts, shapes, volumes, and compositions. Painting gives me more freedom to express myself and to create whatever I want, to turn my ideas to life

⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I try my best to keep working hours and the leisure hours for myself; of course, if some of these hours have to be sacrificed, it will be the leisure, but nowadays, as I get older, I try to respect the precious time for myself and my family. ✕

DIOGO NUNES

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

My mom is an oil painter, so I always grew up around art. I spent my teenage years in the punk/skater scene, always at local shows or skate contests, and always seeing people just covered in tattoos. I remember watching my older sister get her first tattoo, and I was just instantly hooked.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I spent the better part of 10 years going around all the shops in town. Just hanging out and trying to form relationships with artists in the area. I would get work from artists when I could afford it and constantly ask for a chance. And right when I had basically given up on trying, I got it.

As far as my apprenticeship, I feel like some people would say I had it easier because I didn’t have to clean the whole shop with a toothbrush; didn’t have any horrible pranks done on me. But I was working like 4/5 jobs. My mentor was a bug about history and understanding the tools. Like, I had to write a 3-page essay and hand it to my mentor that was about the history of modern tattooing.

Start with Benjamin Franklin’s invention of the electronic pen; Sam O’Reilly, Percy Waters, Nick Tesla. I had to build coil machines from scrap for months with no power supply. It had its challenges, for sure.

Artist

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Honestly, it’s their reaction. Like I will never forget I got to tattoo a buddy of mine who had this generic skull and bandana tattoo on his leg. He got mauled by a dog that left a pretty gnarly scar on his leg. I got to do a cover-up for him, and he told me that what I had done gave him a new confidence about himself because he couldn’t see the tattoo or the scar. And the look in his eyes was just pure happiness and relief. That right there makes all the long late stressful drawing nights worth it.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Am I successful? I’m just grinding like everybody else. Honestly, I just try to keep all my work-related messages for mornings or at the shop when I can. But once I get home after that, my professional pages are shut down. Plus, the nickname helps, too, because I can very easily split my personal and work life. ✕

Artist

DUSTIN DRAKE

Tattoo artist based out of Bristol, Tennessee doing bright and bold tattoos ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My dad was the biggest inspiration. I remember when I was little, seeing my dad come home from the tattoo shops covered in a&d and plastic wrap; just super excited to show off what he got done ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Extremely. I went to so many shops looking for an apprenticeship. At the time, I had no idea there was a way you should go about it. I can say it wasn’t the easiest apprenticeship; I was under everyone in the shop. It helped me learn that much faster, and I’m thankful for that ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? There’s so much to list. I mostly get it from my friends in the industry. Those that are close to me. They are the real ones that I watch all the time and keep me on my toes to be a better artist every day ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Dont stress. Getting your first will more than likely be the easiest tattoo you’ll ever get. Just think, you really have nothing to compare it to. But just remem-

ber, once you get one....there will be more. So just keep that in mind and listen to your artist. You will always get the best work ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I feel like one of the biggest misconceptions is that it’s all “sex, drugs, and rock and roll.” When in reality, it is not; we are all just trying to make an honest living and some cool art How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I surrounded myself with people that inspired and motivated me as an artist. Keeping an eye out wherever I go for inspiration at all times is a must! Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? This job isn’t easy by any means. There are a lot of long hours, stress, and personal struggles with just your own mind. Not to mention the back pain; it is real. In the long run, I wouldn’t change it for the world ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I wouldn’t be able to balance it all if it wasn’t for my wife holding it down at home. Having someone backing you 100% will always help you succeed. ✕

9

Elsa is an awardwinning cosmetic and paramedical tattoo artist. She is a Certified Permanent Cosmetic Professional, Licensed Tattoo Artist & Licensed Cosmetologist. She has been trained by some of the best in the business and now trains her techniques internationally. She is the owner of Flawless Permanent Makeup

By Elsa in Chicago, co-owner of Flawless Permanent Cosmetics & Spa in NYC, and Teach Me PMU Training. She is passionate about what she does and works with several nonprofit organizations to help those in the community get restorative tattoos at no charge to them. She is also the head of the Young Professionals Committee for the SPCP since 2018. (Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals.) Elsa is heavily involved with the SPCP to improve the PMU community.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

My interest in permanent cosmetics and paramedical tattooing started when I was attacked by a dog and endured 30 stitches to my face. After two reconstructive surgeries, I was left with a white stitch line scaring on my face and an asymmetrical lip line. Permanent Makeup and Scar Camouflage restored my face and is what inspired me to learn the craft.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were supportive. They thought it was a little impulsive because I dropped out of University to go to Cosmetic

Tattooing school, but I’ve never looked back, and it’s been a success.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Helping restore people’s confidence or sense of normalcy and making them feel more beautiful. Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Under eye concealer and full face freckles due to how poorly it ages.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? It’s a business that requires constant new clientele. Once I tattoo someone, they are good for typically years before I need to see them again for a touch-up. Therefore we have to hustle to keep the new clients coming meanwhile retaining the old clients. ✕

Born in the South Korean countryside, my early life was framed by the creative presence of my father, an oil painter, and the educational influence of my mother, an elementary school teacher. My sister, seven years my senior, played a significant role in my upbringing. Her disciplined approach to care kept me grounded, nurturing a spirit of generosity within me.

My mother’s wisdom has been a constant source of solace and guidance, her protective and nurturing nature influencing me deeply. My father’s artistic pursuits exposed me to the world of art from a tender age, and drawing became as much a pastime for me as it was a familial bonding activity.

School days often found me sketching in the margins of textbooks, a quiet testament to my love for drawing. Although financial constraints steered me away from art school, following my mother’s practical advice, I ventured into English Education. The subject didn’t ignite my passion, and university life was a struggle as I grappled with a future that felt misaligned with my true self.

In hindsight, studying English was serendipitous, as it led me to New York City—a place where my background in language has opened up possibilities I never could have imagined, threading the past and present into

Artist

EENA CHOI

a tapestry of unexpected opportunities.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

Trust is central to life’s beauty, realized profoundly when I got my first tattoo at 26, a moment of self-liberation and ownership. It’s a unique connection— placing trust in a tattoo artist, a relative stranger, to render their art on your body. This act embodies the deep trust we can place in others’ expertise and vision. Furthermore, drawing isn’t just a hobby; it’s my profession, allowing me to transform passion into livelihood. It also affords me the luxury of travel, exploring new landscapes and cultures. These experiences enrich my art and worldview, illustrating that trust, art, and exploration are interwoven threads in the fabric of my life.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Securing a tattoo apprenticeship in Korea was not easy. I reached out to many studios, particularly those in bustling neighborhoods, and contacted ten shops to inquire about apprenticeship opportunities. Only three responded, inviting me for interviews. After meeting with them, I chose the studio that best matched my vibe.

The apprenticeship lasted a year. For the initial ten months, it involved rigorous practice

to refine my drawing skills, followed by training on how to operate a tattoo machine. The first type I learned to use was a coil machine. It felt very heavy at first, but over the years, I gradually became accustomed to it, despite the persistent pain in my hands and wrists.

This period taught me that a tattoo apprenticeship is fundamentally about persistence and consistency.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Music often fuels

5 Years

Tattooing

New York, NY

Location

Independent Artist

B&G Realism/ Semi-realism Color Specialization

eenaink @gmail.com

@ee.ink

Instagram

my inspiration. My current playlist favorites include XG, 070 Shake, Flume, Lil Peep, and Sik-K. At times, the creativity in music and television shows, particularly those with imaginative storytelling, aids in shaping my art.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? I recommend searching for reference images on Pinterest or Instagram. These platforms showcase a diverse range of tattoo genres and the latest

industry trends. Identify your style, then seek out artists whose work aligns with your vision. To ensure the best outcome, closely follow your artist’s instructions before, during, and after your tattoo session.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? When I entered the tattoo industry, my family and friends hinted that it wasn’t a “real job,” though they never said it directly. As I acquired more tattoos, they advised me to stop, likely concerned about my employability in conventional careers where tattoos might be frowned upon. In retrospect, their worries probably stemmed from the possibility

that I might leave tattooing and struggle to find other work.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is hearing stories about my clients encountering each other, whether on the streets or in airports, and connecting because they both have my art on their skin. The thought of my work traveling globally, living and breathing with people around the world, fills me with indescribable joy.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? I avoid doing face tattoos on young individuals who are still discovering themselves and their career paths, due to the permanency of tattoos and their potential impact on job opportunities. Additionally, I decline requests to tattoo private areas on men, as past experiences have taught me that such inquiries can often be forms of harassment rather than genuine interest.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? Many believe tattoo artists receive the full payment clients make, not realizing most only earn a percentage while the rest goes to the shop. Owning a shop equates to full earnings, but that’s not the case for most

artists. Despite working six days a week when I started, I wasn’t wealthy; I was hustling, sleeping just four hours nightly, focused on paying bills and avoiding debt.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The joy of tattooing is unparalleled; it’s like reliving the pure fun of childhood drawing, feeling pride in my creations. Now, improved skills have replaced paper with skin, and clients’ compliments bring a happiness that echoes my parents’ praise, making the satisfaction even more profound.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? To stay inspired as an artist, despite the immense dedication required, I maintain humility. It reminds me I haven’t reached my full potential and propels me to see how far I can go. I seek out role models, studying their struggles and work ethic, asking if I’ve exerted equal effort. Music is a staple for quick inspiration, but as drawing shifted from hobby to profession, galleries that once inspired now intimidate, triggering insecurity with every masterpiece. Thus, I’ve turned to books, music, dreams, and worldly stories to fuel my creativity, seeking inspiration beyond the visual arts to sustain my artistic drive. ✕

Artist

I’m a Louisville, KY, tattoo artist working at Bananafish Tattoo Parlour in Indiana. For most of my life, all my passion was poured into drawing and exploring art. It drove me to acquire my BFA, has helped my mental fortitude, and gives me a relieving outlet for expression. Tattooing adds the element of intimately sharing that passion with the world ⸺

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve always known I wanted a career where I could freely create, and tattooing drew me in because of the close personal connections and positive ways I could impact lives ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Understand that you need a teacher in your mentor - not someone looking for indefinite free labor. In turn, listen and apply those teachings, and prepare to accept that you will experience failures. Take those failures as an opportunity to do something differently next time ⸺ How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I anticipate social media presence continuing to establish itself as a necessity. In what ways, I can’t predict. The best I can do is keep myself informed on

EMI LANKERT

trending changes What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? The average person doesn’t usually grasp how much effort goes into their tattoo. It’s like a lack of object permanence. When we leave the shop, we’re often going home to continue working - drawing, editing, posting, networking, etc ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I love getting to share my imagination with clients, who then share it with others. A lot of the time, my drawings, paintings, and other scattered art projects sit at home collecting dust ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? It’s inevitable that burnout happens. I’ve learned to just accept it and understand that it’s cyclical. Inspiration always comes around somewhere ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? My own criticism of myself has been my biggest obstacle. I’m a seasoned aspiring perfectionist, so it’s hard not to doom myself from the start sometimes

When you’re not tattooing, what are you doing? Probably at home, spoiling my dogs and messing with make-up or playing Zelda. Or making art to wind down from a long day of making art. ✕

Color Illustrative/B&G Specialization

Born and raised in Idaho, I’m the oldest of four and had a very religious upbringing. Tattooing was never something I had considered doing or looked into, even though I had friends suggesting I get into it in high school. I’m a self-taught artist and have been drawing for as long as I can recall, and it’s the only thing I cared about doing as a kid. The summer I graduated, my 14-year-old sister was greatly injured in a boating accident and passed away. I realized how fragile life is and that it can be taken away in an instant. I needed to do what made me truly happy, not somebody else. I married my husband (who I met in 8th grade) in 2012, left the church in 2013, started tattooing in 2015, and moved to East Tennessee in 2021, and I’ve never been happier.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My husband has always been extremely supportive. My parents weren’t the happiest when I told them I wouldn’t be going to school and I’d be tattooing instead, but now they’re very supportive. I’ve given both my parents their first tattoos.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Seeing the reactions of happy clients. Tattoos can impact how you view yourself in such a positive way.

All of the amazing people I have been privileged to cross paths with; clients and artists. It’s such a diverse industry; there really is nothing like it.

EMILEE

SEELE Artist

8 Years Tattooing Knoxville, TN Location Independent Artist B&G Illustrative/ Dot work/ Whip-shading Specialization ink.millie @gmail.com @girlwiththefoxtattoo Instagram

girlwiththefoxtattoo .com

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? You are your only competition.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? None. It is indeed a party 24/7.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? It will never get boring. You are always practicing, and the craft is always growing, and the variables are always changing. You think you will have something figured out, and the next day nothing goes right.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? The deadline. I do a lot of custom work still, and my clients sometimes bring me wonderful ideas that I never would have come to on my own, and I love it. ✕

“Millie”

ETGAR OAK

I’m Etgar Oak, a multi-award-winning tattoo artist based in New York. Born in Latvia in 1985, I hail from a family of ten children and grew up in challenging circumstances. Guided by my father’s artistic influence, I developed a deep passion for art. My interest in tattooing was sparked early, and despite setbacks, I pursued my calling. After army service, I honed my skills across Europe and gained recognition. Settling in New York in 2022, I now thrive as part of the Rebel Ink team. My commitment to tattooing excellence drives me, and I believe that dedication and love for one’s craft lead to success ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My father was an artist. I loved watching him draw and paint. I also remember seeing him tattoo my brother once using a homemade tattoo machine. That was my first encounter with tattooing What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I create art every day and connect with people ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t tattoo private areas, and I steer clear of copy-paste and trendy tattoos. Each client receives a unique, custom-designed piece ⸺ What are some of the most common

misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry?

People with tattoos have often been categorized based on their appearance as if tattoos would have relevance to their identity and individuality What do you enjoy most about tattooing? When the idea comes alive ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? It’s an Aztec warrior I did some time ago, and it stands out to me because it shows all my best skills: portrait work, high detail, and contrast ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Tattooing isn’t just my job; primarily, it’s my hobby. And when you love what you do, staying motivated doesn’t require any extra inspiration ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? It was about finding the right equipment to achieve the best results How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? My wife supports me and travels with me to tattoo conventions. She has been involved in my career since the beginning, loves the tattoo industry itself, and since we always go everywhere together, it makes things easy. ✕

(Edgars Ozols)

Full-time nerd and a fulltime artist. I love anything nerdy and super colorful, but I also love the challenge of a coverup.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve been around tattoos my whole life. My entire family has them, so I just thought it was the norm. I’ve never been good at anything, but I always loved to draw and create; plus, I hate people, so if I can stab them for hours… win/win.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It was an experience, that’s for sure. I actually started in this industry as a permanent makeup artist, so I did that apprenticeship first, then went to traditional tattooing and did that apprenticeship. Both are very different. The permanent makeup one is a lot shorter and a lot less work but is also more dangerous. Figure that one out.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Don’t let others sway your decision but know that there is a fine line between modification and mutilation.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I won’t do necks or throats; I just hate working on that skin. No racist garbage, but I love me some sacrilege.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? The whole first year. It was hard to make money; all my work came back light or had janky lines. Every time the shop phone would ring,

I’d hear, “Who did the tattoo?” I’d have a panic attack because chances were it was for me and something I fucked up.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those

changes? Everybody and their mother is trying to come out with the next hot product for whatever industry is popular. Tattooing is no different. Evolve with the industry but don’t buy into everything.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? When I see artists who are better than me slaying pieces. Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? The career itself is an obstacle. You get a ton of opportunities to fold. ✕

Growing up extremely poor in Germany, I was lucky to move to Hawaii in 2012, where I instantly felt at home. My marriage didn’t last, but I was able to gain citizenship and enjoy paradise with my daughters now every day. I’ve been through a lot of loss, and after my oldest daughter Lily’s sudden and unexpected passing in 2019, I opened up my shop Lilium Tattoo Hawaii in honor of her a year later. Instead of being depressed and negative all the time, I try to focus on all the positive that comes my way. Helping people out wherever I can and making sure my family has everything they need is what I do ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Fifteen years back in Germany, tattoos weren’t very popular, and there were not many shops around. Being full-time in fashion school, I apprenticed remotely, and my mentor’s advice was to practice as much as possible. Thankfully I had many friends supporting me. Nowadays, I would do it totally differently. I am very interested in the medical parts and worked a few years back part-time at a plastic surgery center doing medical tattoos. You never stop learning! ⸺ What

FRANZISKA FAULSTICH

advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Have a big meal, lots of water, and sleep. Bring some sort of distraction like your phone, download movies, etc. Be prepared for the pain. If it’s not as bad as you thought, great! If it is, at least you expected it... And lastly, listen to your artist’s aftercare instructions, not your friends! ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? There will be lows at some point. You need to have very strong mental health, or you won’t make it. Always look ahead. If you can’t do it today, try again tomorrow!

When my daughter passed away, I had to keep working. I was my family’s only income. I had to be there for my other children. The death of your own child is nothing compared to anything else. I am very grateful for all the people that were there for me in my time of need. You can’t tattoo and do a half-ass job. You have to give everything. I had to learn to turn my emotions off whilst doing the tattoo to not ruin someone’s skin. It is possible to do that. ✕

Lilium

16 Years Tattooing Niceville, FL Location

47 INKED Owner/Artist B&G/ Color Realism/ Portraits Specialization

freddie@ 47inked.com Email

@47INKED Instagram 47INKED .com

Born in Flint, MI, in Dec of 1986. I was raised on the east side by a struggling single mother, then transitioned to live with my father at 11 with my two sisters. Art and sports were my escape from the reality I was surrounded by.

At 17, I was on my own and trying to find myself. By 2006 I was 19 and married with three children and made the choice to run my own business. In 2008 I decided I would use my art to build my future and began my journey into the tattoo world.

In 2010 I opened my first tattoo studio (Studio 47) in Dickinson, North Dakota, and took a formal apprenticeship with Jake Kelly, an artist at my studio. In 2011 I went through a divorce, moved back to Flint, opened a small private studio (Studio 47), and grinded to perfect my tattooing, where I met my future wife, Brooke, and very supportive partner in this tattoo journey. We soon found ourselves with a newborn son and pushed forward. After several years of working hard to build a thriving business tattooing, we then found ourselves dealing with a new hurdle, Flint was facing a lead water crisis, and we soon found out our son was affected and

born with developmental complications that would forever make him dependent on us. We then made a choice to move to Florida to ensure we could provide a stable positive environment for him away from the ghetto and poisoned water. After six years of rebuilding and building a solid reputation, we decided to open an appointmentonly studio, 47 INKED, in Niceville, Fl, in the winter of 2021. I now focus on mainly larger tattoos and portraits. We also started to travel heavily doing conventions in 2021, where I have managed to collect well over 50 awards from shows all over the states.

What do you hope to leave behind for the tattoo industry and artists? I hope that I can leave the understanding that it’s not just about doing great tattoos and looking cool. It’s more so about the experience you provide for your clients. I see it all the time where a client forgets an artist’s name but can tell you everything that happened, good or bad. I want to be an artist who is remembered for not only quality work but an amazing experience during the process.

What is the best advice you can give an artist new to the tattoo industry? Figure out what it is you are wanting to accomplish in tattooing and work towards that goal. Be aware of unhealthy distractions and groupies that take away from achieving your goal. Always further your education and push your limits to create your style of art. Never box yourself in; success can be achieved in many ways. Tattooing

Artist

has evolved so much passed just the art. You also have to understand the business side to be truly successful. Always think about your future.

What’s your opinion on private studios vs. Tourist/street shops? Private studios help an artist to focus on the style of art they wanna produce in a controlled environment. Street shops and tourist shops offer young artists the opportunity to grow and find the style they enjoy doing because of the high volume of work that usually comes through the door, but it is also great for a veteran artist who’s just looking for a steady workload and enjoys the spontaneous tattoo. ✕

FRODO NUNEZ Artist

I’m a 44-year-old father of 5. I’ve been tattooing for 17 years and currently work at Pigment Tattoo in Austin, Texas. I started at House of Pain Tattoo in El Paso, Texas. I left to open the Blue Panda Tattoo with my friend Matt Valles, where I stayed for two years. I then moved to Sun City Tattoo and then Dapper Ink. I left El Paso in 2017 to live in Albuquerque, where I worked at Por Vida Tattoo. Then moved back to El Paso in 2019 and back to Sun City. I’m now going on 1 year in Austin, Texas.

I apprenticed in 2006 under Mando Aguilar; a position I got out of pure luck. I saw a post on an old social media site for tattooers and tattoo collectors. I decided that it was the right time and sent a message. Met with Mando, and the rest was history.

I grew up in El Paso, Texas, and have always been involved in art. I worked at the El Paso Museum of Art for several years. There I painted murals in the gift shop and did several art projects. But my main job was building maintenance. This led to work with the Chamizal National Park

and several mural projects around El Paso. My love for art goes back as far as I can remember. One of my aunts has a drawing that I did at the age of 3; and I’ve been drawing ever since.

I come from the world of graffiti and street art, so I naturally gravitated to a new school style of tattooing. Portraits and cars are something I have been drawing since I was about 12 years old. This was when I picked up my first lowrider and hot rod magazines. Car culture is a huge influence on my art in general; and is what taught me about light sources and dimension ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Don’t stress about the tattoo, and enjoy the experience; you only get your first tattoo once ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My dad was happy because he has a lot of tattoos, and my mom was skeptical that it would provide a good life for me and my family. ✕

I am the owner of The Pine Needle Tattoo Co. in Tumwater, WA. It’s a brand new shop opening in October that is focused on quality tattooing in a relaxing atmosphere. I have been tattooing for 17 years and previously owned Sagebrush Tattoo in Laramie, WY, before moving for my wife’s new job as a Washington state Botanist. When not tattooing, I love spending time in nature as much as possible and communing with the creatures and the trees.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I pull inspiration from my many personal interests. The majority comes from nature, though, which provides a lifetime of inspiration if you pay attention.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? You get out of it what you put into it.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I think most of the general public does not fully understand the sheer amount of time, work, and mental space it takes to create a custom piece of art.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

I love everything about it. I love getting so immersed in the tattoo that I’m doing that it’s almost meditative. I love watching it come to life as much as the client does. I love the conversations I have with all my clients. I hate the back pain, though; I’m just sayin’. Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? Almost every tattoo I do is my favorite one. I put my all into every tattoo and always try to improve on each one, so the newest one is usually the best!

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Lots of self-loathing and a will to be better.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? The same way one balances spinning plates on sticks. Very carefully and with much effort. Often with some broken plates.

Are you hiring? Yes, we are! I am looking for a couple of likeminded tattoo artists to join the team if anyone is interested. ✕ 17 Years

GIST PORTFOLIO Artist

I’m a self-taught artist from Jacksonville, Florida, born and raised on the east side. I started out drawing cartoon characters and graffiti around the age of 8. I fell in love with art early because I could express my creativity freely. Growing up, I was an artist, athlete, and nerd. Those characteristics made me versatile and a social butterfly. I took college art classes in 2015 to pursue digital media. Then later started apprenticing for tattoos in 2017. On my journey to become a tattoo artist, while building my portfolio, the pandemic hit, which shaped my business and forced me to become a full-time artist ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Westcoast Chicano style artist and graffiti art. As far as who, Amani Treniner, Thirdwun, and Bakon_one on Instagram ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Know what you want, and research the artist for your style preference What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That people think tattoo artists know how to draw ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The connections with people and the steady growth Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My favorite tattoo is the tattoo I did on myself, which is a fist wrapped in chains and the sacred heart of Jesus, which represents the love of all humanity. The fist and chains represent the history of my culture ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? To be better than I was yesterday because I’m in competition with myself to be a better version of myself

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Times I thought I would have to get a job during slow seasons, which taught me how to save and prepare ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Limiting the number of clients daily while making time for yourself and your mental health ⸺ What did you need to do to become a full-time artist? Have 3-6 months of income saved for your fixed expenses and emergencies while creating consistent cash flow from clientele ⸺ What style of tattoos that you don’t necessarily care for? Traditional ⸺ What is an annoying question you typically get? “How much does a tattoo cost". ✕

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I absolutely love Natalie Davis1 , Abby Muench 2, and Jesus Lleo 3. I really like their contrast and composition. I also really like pulling inspiration from surrealist paintings; they help get me out of my mental box and get more creative.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Find an artist whose style is exactly what you’re looking for; they’ll take care of translating your reference photos into a design that will make for a great tattoo. Skin and paper are two very different mediums, and that needs to be accounted for. Feel free to ask questions and make sure you two are on the same page.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? It was pretty split, I have some family members that hate tattoos, so they definitely were not happy, but most of them were pretty supportive and curious. Most of my friends were already tattoo artists, so they were stoked that I was finally taking the plunge.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Take your time! You are learning how to permanently alter someone’s body; they will go to the grave with the tattoo you do on them. Care enough to do it right and well, or don’t tattoo.

HOT MESS JESSS

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I think some people don’t realize how much time we spend drawing on our own time. I can take hours to design a piece, let alone figure out how you want it shaded.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My most favorite tattoo that I have done is either my crow lady or the foureyed witch. I had total freedom, and they both sat so good; they turned out amazing! I always love a good lady’s face!

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I make sure to take on pieces that interest me and give me freedom. Taking on pieces that are neither of those really puts me in a creative rut, and I don’t want to give someone a tattoo that is less than what they deserve because I wasn’t 100% invested. ✕

Steve Butcher

MAMBA MENTALITY

PHOTOGRAPHED

BY

VIKTORIA SIRAKOVA @victoriasirakovaphotographer

Have you ever stumbled upon a tattoo so lifelike it almost speaks to you? That’s the hallmark of Steve Butcher, New Zealand’s pride in the global tattoo arena. This guy isn’t just a tattoo artist; he’s a visionary who’s redefining what ink on skin can be. We’re about to take a deep dive into his world – where each tattoo is a story, a masterpiece of realism and color. Butcher isn’t just about the ink; he’s about the impact. From his humble beginnings in New Zealand to becoming a global sensation, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. It’s a tale of passion, precision, and the pursuit of perfection. And let me tell you, this guy’s got stories to tell – each one inked on skin. >

The beginnings of this legendary artist trace back to a young Kiwi, finding his calling in the world of art. Growing up in New Zealand, Steve Butcher dabbled in various art forms before the world of tattoos captivated him. He reminisces, “There’s something eternally fascinating about creating art that ages with a person.” His early works were a playground of experimentation, setting the stage for his unique style that would later take the tattoo world by storm. Steve’s initial foray into tattooing wasn’t smooth sailing. He navigated through challenges, honing his skills, and slowly carving a niche for himself. He recalls those days with a sense of nostalgia, “Every tattoo back then felt like stepping into uncharted territory.” It was this relentless exploration and dedication that gradually shaped his distinctive approach to tattooing.

Step into the realm of Steve Butcher’s tattoos, and you’ll find yourself lost in the realism that defines his style. His approach to tattooing is like that of a fine artist – every stroke, every shade is deliberate, contributing to an overall masterpiece. “It’s about bringing a piece of art to life,” he explains. His mastery in shading, coupled with a bold use of color, creates tattoos that are more than images – they’re stories etched in skin. Butcher’s technique is a complex dance of precision and creativity. He approaches each new piece with a mix of excitement and reverence. His ability to transform a simple photograph into a vibrant, three-dimensional artwork on skin is nothing short of magical. This unique blend of realism and color work is what sets his art apart in the crowded world of tattooing.

Talking about Butcher’s portfolio is like walking through an art gallery. Each piece is a testament to his skill and versatility. His work, especially his portraits, are not just tattoos – they’re tributes. His rendition of sports legends, movie stars, and personal heroes on skin has garnered global attention. Remember that incredibly lifelike tattoo of Kobe Bryant? That’s Butcher’s craft. Butcher’s client list reads like a who’s who of the celebrity world. From sports stars to movie icons,

Q&A:

Steve Butcher

How did you get into tattooing? I started tattooing was when my nana got diagnosed with lung cancer, after she passed away, I wanted to get a portrait of her. There was only one guy I knew who was tattooing at the time, and he’d only just started. He’d never done a portrait before either, so I was his first portrait. I sat for six hours and got the portrait of my nana. I was watching what he was doing, and I was like, man, I can do this. I was in art school.

I knew I wanted to do something with art,

but I didn’t know what. I could paint and draw, but I didn’t know what I wanted my career to be. That gave me a little path to follow. I bought a little kit off the Internet, like from China or something, and just started tattooing my friends out of my house; the rest is history.

How has your style evolved since you started? Quite a lot.

When I first started, I was kind of like a jack of all trades because I had to work in a street shop, different clients every day, I had to be good at everything.

Lines, writing, Japanese, traditional. It also gave

many have sought his talent to immortalize their stories in ink. But for Steve, it’s not about the fame. “Each tattoo, big or small, carries its own significance,” he shares. Whether it’s a global icon or a personal tribute, Butcher gives each piece his all, crafting not just a tattoo, but a legacy.

His impact on the tattoo industry is as vivid as his art. He’s not just another artist in the studio; he’s a trendsetter, an inspiration. His work has pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in tattoo realism, inspiring a whole new generation. “I want to inspire, to show what can be achieved with dedication,” he says, reflecting on his role as a mentor. Butcher’s influence extends beyond his artwork. He’s a regular at workshops and seminars, sharing his knowledge and skills with eager learners. His philosophy is simple: “The more we share, the more we grow.” This ethos has made him a revered figure in the tattoo community, shaping not just the present, but the future of tattoo artistry.

Looking to the future, Butcher sees a canvas full of possibilities. “Tattooing is an ever-evolving art form,” he notes. He’s excited about the new techniques, the evolving technology, and the endless potential to tell more stories through tattoos. His vision goes beyond his studio in New Zealand – it’s about impacting the global tattoo landscape. In his words, “The future of tattooing is about pushing the envelope, about telling stories that resonate.” Butcher is determined to keep innovating, exploring, and setting new benchmarks. His drive and passion are what make him not just an artist, but a visionary in the true sense. “I’m just getting started,” he says with a twinkle in his eye, promising more breathtaking art in the years to come.

In a world where tattoos are often seen as mere decorations, Butcher has elevated them to a form of storytelling – vibrant, dynamic, and deeply personal. His artistry has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who witness his work. In his own words, “Every tattoo is a chapter of my journey, a part of my legacy.” And this journey, much like his incredible tattoos, is far from over.

me an opportunity to become a salesman and start talking people into doing what I wanted to start doing. I’ve always painted realism and drawn realism; for me, it was an easy transition to start doing realism tattoos. Eventually, it became my niche to do crazy detailed stuff and try to get it as close to the photo as I could.

What does tattooing mean to you? Tattooing has given me everything and changed my life. It literally gave me everything that I have. I’ve been to 25 different countries, tattooed all over the world, and met so many different people; some of my best friends in my entire life I’ve met through the tattoo industry.

What do you like about tattooing? It’s something different every day; every skin, customer, design and tattoo has its own challenges. As much as you’re tattooing, it doesn’t feel repetitive.

What challenges have you faced? Definitely just being an outsider and being from New Zealand. Traveling and turning up at conventions where it’s a bunch of bigwigs in the tattoo industry, and just forcing that I’m going to fit in here. I’m going to make sure I fit in here, and then kind of just traveling by yourself, being by yourself.

That’s why I think I value friendships so much because when you’re by yourself, you have no one else to bounce ideas off or anything like that. So, definitely, selfmotivation, I feel, is one of my biggest challenges.

What advice would you give to someone starting to tattoo?

Travel, travel, travel.

Don’t stay in your city. Do your best to get out there, pay to go to conventions, pay to go to other countries, force your name out there in the industry, and make sure people know who you are.

What is your favorite tattoo on your body?

My favorite tattoo on my body is this portrait of my nana, done by Dean Sacred in New Zealand. She controls my tattoo hand. She controls anything I draw; she’s the reason why I started tattooing and my biggest motivation and inspiration in art. ✕

Steve Butcher

The future of tattooing is about pushing the envelope, about telling

STORIES THAT RESONATE ”

I want totoinspire, bewhatshowcanachieved WITH DEDICATION “

“

Each tattoo, big or small, carries its own

SIGNIFICANCE

Steve Butcher

GETTING STARTED I’m just ” “

Artist

INWOLIST

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I got my first tattoo, and I fell in love with tattooing Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Yes, there was a lot that happened ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I draw inspiration from the artwork of many tattoo artists and the scenery of nature and the city ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? If you want to, you can do it What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Actually, my parents don’t want me to. But my friends think I’m good ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I would refuse to do private areas ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I turned the lettering upside down and worked on it. It was a really bad experience. Also, I covered it well ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? It should be a job, not a hobby ⸺ How do you see the

tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I think there will be good machines and many people will have technology. So, I’m trying to focus on the originality of the design ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I think a lot of people think tattoos are technical only, not art ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Talking with my clients Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? A tattoo with a hand on top of a crying woman and a mushroom growing nearby. It looks very peaceful to me ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I look at a lot of art and look around me ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I want to post a good design every day, but I often fail that challenge ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I enjoy drawing, and it has become my personal life! . ✕

Artist

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I was getting tattooed a lot and had always enjoyed making little doodles for my friends and whatnot. I was told by a few of my friends I should be an artist; however, I never really thought much of it because I never really took art all that seriously. It wasn’t until I became friends with the artist that was tattooing me at the time that I realized I wanted to not only tattoo but also learn how to draw stuff that looks like a tattoo.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I got pretty lucky getting my foot in the door; I came into a shop just asking for some critique on a drawing and ended up being told I could come to hang out and draw anytime; eventually, I just kept asking and begging them to let me take out the trash, or scrub the toilet, anything to help out, but they just kept saying no. Eventually, they caved in and let me help out and, shortly after, offered me an apprenticeship.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They thought it was awesome, seeing as though I didn’t have much direction in life at the time.

“MACE FACE”

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Grind, grind, grind, ask lots of questions, and do your homework.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? It’s something that just truly has no limitations.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? Probably my coworkers framed trad sleeve.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? My main motivation right now is my 1-year-old son.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I’ll tattoo you just about anywhere, given the right circumstance.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Oof yeah, but man, it’s a lot to type.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I worked at a shop that had literally burned down to the ground…. two times to be exact. So yeah, that was pretty inconvenient. ✕

7 Years Tattooing Renton, WA Location Independent Artist

Trad/Ornamental Specialization

izzykidd95 @gmail.com

@tattoos_by_ mace_face Instagram

Chantorn Isaiah

Artist

I stumbled upon a traditional tattoo apprenticeship in 2004. There were a few weekends I didn’t show up and was let go the next time I went in. A few months passed, and I decided to buy some equipment from eBay and tattoo people out of my mother’s house. In 2006 I found a gig tattooing inside a biker apparel store with a small tattoo booth in the corner. As time went on, I moved to a bigger tattoo shop called Pain For Sale, which had multiple artists working together. Then, 2014 came, and I made a move to work at Black Sunday Tattoo with Andy Westman, who really showed me how to do nice black and grey work. The years passed by, and I had a falling out with a new hire. That led me to now running my small tattoo shop with my good friend Thomas Walsh ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? These days it’s the filters, photoshop, and lighting that give people false perceptions. Good tattooing is not easy. I should also mention that tattoos take time. It’s not an in-and-

IVAN TWOBULLS JR

out thing, even for smaller-scale work Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My client Mike Bath has a full upper arm and chest panel that I really tried to flex on. The composition of elements and the way they complement the body are what I love about good solid tattooing ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? If I’m in a slump, I’ll jump on YouTube and just search “Tattoo,” and then I’ll watch something to help get me excited to create. Seeing other people create makes me want to get in the mix, also ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Quality over quantity. I will only do one tattoo a day. This helps me give the client my best work. I don’t feel rushed, and I am able to go home for the rest of the day to either be with family or gather references for the next day ⸺ Coil or Rotary? Boffum ⸺ What music plays in your shop? Everything, just no screamo shit! ⸺ Do you learn art or tattooing first? Art first. ✕

My name is Jack, and I live a life I love.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

In my three years as a regular client of my would-be mentor, Kurt Jacobsen, we had many loose conversations of “how cool it would be if I were your apprentice”. As the time passed and hours in his chair accrued, so did my appreciation for the service that I was given by Kurt. I was enamored by the feeling of making it through a session, feeling more myself than before, so when the day came that Kurt formally offered me an apprenticeship, I was already 173% in.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Most of the inspiration has come from nature. As a student of traditional Japanese, I find myself spending a lot of my free time with my nose in books. Filip Leu, Horiyoshi III, Mick of Zurich, and Bill Canales, to name a few of my favorites.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?

Although my career path has consumed most of my time day to day, thus limiting the amount of time I have otherwise, I am fortunate to have had all the support in the world from my friends and family.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? As much as I love making art and tattoos, my favorite part of the job is using that art as a means to send clients home feeling more content in themselves than they came in feeling. People are more

resilient than they often give themselves credit for, and choosing to get in the chair is a selfimposed opportunity to remind oneself of that fact. Go through some pain, but leave with a piece of art that serves as a permanent reminder that you’re tougher than whatever pain you’re experiencing.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Miss me with the hateful shit. Otherwise, my books are open to ALL.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I am fortunate enough to have the love and support of an incredible partner to check me when I forget that I am more than just a tattooer. ✕

JAIDEN DUCOFF

My name is Jaiden Ducoff; I’m a female tattoo artist in New Jersey. I work at Rorschach Gallery in Hillsborough. I’ve been tattooing for two years now and currently specialize in black and grey surrealism/ realism and fine line work ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I was always an artist; it was the one thing that stuck with me throughout my whole life so far. I went to college for graphic arts and hated it, so I dropped out and instantly fell in love with the tattoo industry. It was exactly what I was aiming for in terms of art styles and how freeing it would be ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite, for sure, is the client’s reaction when I’m done with the tattoo. Seeing the confidence level go up, how happy they are, and hearing what they plan to have done next ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I refuse to do the face, neck, or hands if you don’t have a lot of visible tattoos. In my opinion, it just won’t look good since it’ll be so bold on your body with nothing else around it ⸺

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? On my days off, I usually will not answer emails or DMs that I have. I turn my notifications off so that I only focus on my home life and not my work life. I also recently hired an assistant; lately, I’ve been getting a lot busier, and it’s hard for me to answer things in a good amount of time while still working full days ⸺ Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years? I plan to travel a lot, work around the world, and experience/learn as much as I can Do you plan to open your own shop? Depending on where I’m at in the future, I will decide that. I’m pretty stable with who I work with now and where I work. It’s also a lot to think about in terms of all the maintenance that has to be put into all of it ⸺ What was the first ever thing you tattooed on a client? I did my first ever tattoo on a guy’s side burns. I was only three weeks in, so needless to say… those arrows were not very straight. My mentor also did not watch over me to see if I was doing anything right. The guy also didn’t speak English. ✕

I am a tattoo artist from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and I have been tattooing all around the United States for the last eight years. I’m located in Delray Beach, Florida, and tattoos and fine art are my passion. I left Pittsburgh in 2016 to work in Los Angeles, California, to study tattooing and painting from some really great artists, which inspired me to push myself and shoot high with my artwork. I love tattooing and painting anything popculture-related because I am a huge nerd.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Make sure you do your research on the artist before going in and getting a tattoo. Check out their Instagram account or website, and just make sure they are super legit because when an artist cares about their portfolio and how they present themselves, they care about how their work is on a person. They need to have a sense of pride in what they do, and the experience will be great!

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They all thought I had lost my mind and gone off the deep end, to be honest, at first. My tattoos and artwork were really, really crappy back then, and I guess it was just hard for people to have faith in me when my work sucked. I really isolated myself from a lot of people and took a whole new path when I started tattooing.

iamjakesteele @gmail.com

@iamjakesteele Instagram

iamjakesteele .com

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? The only way I can stay inspired as an artist is to try to be hyped about it! I always have to be trying to make something better and always keep growing and learning. I try to give myself rewards and take a lot of trips to see new things, meet new people, and try new ways!

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I always try to step back from it and make sure everything else in life isn’t falling apart because of how mentally taxing my career is; it’s really a struggle to try to relax because I always feel I am in a go-go-gomode. The main thing I do to re-balance my life is detaching and taking a trip; I just get out of my element for at least a week, and when I get home, I’m ready to get back at it with a clear vision of my goals. I like to reward myself when I’ve done well and share my successes with those around me. ✕

JAKE STEELE Artist

12 Years Tattooing Boynton Beach, FL Location Independent Artist Portrait/Realism/Cartoon Specialization

I’m a husband, father, guitarist, and tattoo artist from central MS. I’m always looking to learn new skills and take my art to the next level. I recently moved from a walk-in shop to an appointmentonly, private studio, Blackmore Gallery. If you’re in the area, I invite you to look us up and come check us out.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Everyone around me was very supportive of my career change.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Learning new skills and putting them to use is definitely my favorite part of the job. I love the physical act of tattooing.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Not sure about the evolution, but I frequently work at conventions, attend seminars and classes, and talk with other artists to stay relevant. This allows me to see what’s changing in the industry and try to grow with it.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? Color hurts more, especially white ink. I think it’s more about the length of time involved that hurts. By the time we get to color or highlights, you’re getting tender and sore.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I don’t really have ONE favorite. I like a lot of the ones I’ve made.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Having a camera on my phone so I can photograph references in the wild is one way I stay motivated. But my family, conventions, and seminars are what really help.

7 Years Tattooing

Brandon, MS Location Independent Artist

Neo-Trad/Fineline Specialization jamietat2 @gmail.com @jamietat2 Instagram

Artist

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Swapping from a coil machine to a direct drive and from a direct drive to a pen style presented me with a challenge. Each time I swapped machines, my line work really suffered. But it just took a moment to become familiar with my tools.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I use booking software and only schedule a set number of appointments each week. Working in an appointment only, private studio helps. ✕

JAMIE CHILDS

Artist

I’m just a fat old married dad, trying his best to bring people’s ideas to life through art ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My father was married to Jeanine Johnson, former owner of Lady of the Lake tattoos. She always encouraged me to pursue art and the lifestyle of being able to do what I like while taking care of my family sold me ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? It was mixed reviews; some were impressed, most worried about retirement, benefits, slow season, etc ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? It may sound lame, but how happy I’m able to make people. From mom’s signature on a wrist after she’s passed, to a super rad eagle on a chest, it’s all to make folks happy and me feel accomplished ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Oh, who hasn’t? For me, it was my first shot at a realistic wolf. The client and I are still friends to this day, but that cover-up was a free one. I’m glad I never posted it, or there would be a derpy wolf

stamp ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? Easy answer: we are some sort of drug-addicted, drunk rockstars that party all the time and DGAF. The majority of us are tired, need an Epsom salt soak, and want to play at the park with our kids ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? Absolutely has to be on a buddy. He worked at a pizza joint for years named after a certain Greek emperor. It’s a super fun logo, and I got to do the sticker thingy to it ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Very carefully; my beautiful wife is fortunately in a similar trade; it allows us to really schedule time for much-needed relaxation ⸺ Do you have any companies that support you? Yup! Goliath Needles has always looked out for me, and Queens Head Tattoo Clothing keeps me out of gas station t-shirts ⸺ Where do you work? I enjoy travel, but my home base is at Mcdonald Ink 2. ✕

JESSE

My name is Angelina, and I am a tattoo artist from Atlanta, GA.

Born and raised in Kyiv, Ukraine, I moved to the United States a decade ago, living in Jacksonville, FL, and Seattle, WA, before moving to Atlanta in late 2021. Before tattooing full-time, I studied visual arts in school and worked as a visual artist and an illustrator.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Finding the right mentor and making the apprenticeship commitment work was definitely not easy, but once I found the right artist and had a good plan to make it work, it was smooth sailing. You definitely have to be strategic about who you are going to be learning from and how you are going to make it work. Having a good plan and a support network is crucial in this stage.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Anything around us can give us creative energy. Being outside is accessible and inexpensive and can work wonders. Traveling to new places is another great source of inspiration for me, especially as I switch up mediums and sketch in my notebook as I explore a new city. When I feel particularly low on creativity, I turn back to visual art: I visit art exhibits, galleries, and art museums. I am especially fond of Impressionism and find a lot of inspiration in paintings of that era. As a professional, however, you can’t always wait on inspiration: you suit up, show up, and let inspiration catch up with you.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I think that social media has changed the tattoo landscape forever, both in terms of client leads, marketing channels, and reaching new audiences, as well as in what’s trending and what customers want today. While it’s important to understand the current trends, and while it’s important to leverage some of these relatively new tools for outreach, it’s just as important to not lose yourself while chasing ever-fleeting relevancy: you must know your style and your niche, have a core base of customers, and innovate within what’s true to you as an artist.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I enjoy the process of it all and seeing how a big tattoo comes together after hours of work. I love seeing the finished result and love seeing my tattoos out in the wild. ✕

JESSE Artist

Professional tattoo artist from Venezuela that has been tattooing for 10 years. Has tattooed in Caracas, Venezuela, Miami, Florida, and is currently located in Jacksonville, North Carolina, at the American Tattoo Society. Has participated in many tattoo conventions over the years ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of tattooing is the fact that I can do my work from anywhere, travel, and meet new people every day. I love the freedom that comes with being an artist ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I do not do face tattoos because most people regret getting them ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I don’t really have any bad experiences. I’ve been lucky so far! What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t try to do anything before you have the skills to do it! Always start with the basics What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? A lot of people think every tattoo has to mean some -

thing meaningful, but it doesn’t. It’s awesome if they have meaning, but it’s also okay to get a tattoo just because you like it! ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I think my favorite tattoo is the first one I ever did. While doing it, I felt my life click into place and knew that was what I was meant to do ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Watching children’s movies! It keeps my inner child and creativity alive! But I also enjoy art in general, such as sculptures, paintings, and architecture ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Towards the beginning of my tattooing career, building a clientele was so difficult in such a saturated market How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I always make sure to schedule time for my family and just make sure I keep work at work and home at home What’s the most fun tattoo you’ve ever done? I had a woman get “Why do they always forget my bacon?” tattooed on her arm. It was her very first tattoo, too. ✕

Born and raised Mainer. I have been drawing for as long as I can remember. Started my apprenticeship in 2007 in Benton, Maine, under Rodney Corson at The House of Ink. Became licensed in 2008 and opened InkSlingrz in 2012 in Augusta, Maine. After years of battling personal demons while navigating life as a young business owner, with the help of my wife, I managed to find redemption through recovery. Now, I simply live as a happily married man with an amazing son who is my entire world, all while still putting killer tattoos on people every day ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Research! In every aspect of the word. Everything matters, from the design process to the artist’s style and portfolio. Even something as simple as the vibe you get from the shop and artist matters. Even if more follow, you never forget your first! What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Strive for humility and respect, not fame! They are

JOE BERRUBE Artist

FAR more valuable assets in life than whatever the ego will give you. Respect the ones that paved the way through a much harder time. Respect for the time-honored craft that it is. Add a dose of humility with that to allow you to fully connect with your canvas on all levels so they can have the experience they paid good money for. There are enough shallow, self-absorbed, narcissistic egos out there today. Set yourself apart by simply being humble Who are some of your tattooing idols? Sailor Jerry, Lyle Tuttle, Paul Booth, and Felip Leu ⸺ If you could change one aspect of modern tattooing, what would it be? The importance of social media and fame In your opinion, what has been the best thing to happen to tattooing? Worst? Television series such as “Miami Ink” and “Ink Master” have greatly broadened people’s understanding of the tattoo world and brought it more to the masses. At the same time, social media has given rise to more artistic selfishness and less customer consideration. ✕

French Tattoo artist based in Long Beach at The Raven and The Wolves.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I’ve always been into art since I was very little; I grew up with a wall full of Marvel and DC (my dad was a huge fan of comics and a self-taught drawer), so I would say that the spark came from him.

Artist

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Definitely find an artist that you love along with their way of creating projects and their tattoo styles.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Find the thing/style that will make you grow as an artist and, most importantly, become your own artist.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Well, I don’t believe I know everything about the industry, but from my perspective, I believe it is growing more and more each year; more and more talented people are becoming or turning into a tattoo artists, which makes it refreshing but at the same time it keeps me on my toes to keep pushing to become a better artist to actually stay relevant. And on another side, there is AI art that is growing really fast, and even if I haven’t had a look at it yet, I believe that I should stay open-minded and still stay informed about it because it is here anyway, as long as it is used as a tool to help our workflow or provide a new perspective. I do not have any issue with it as long as we still thrive on creating an original piece of art.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry?

When people ask tattooed people, “How will you look like when you are old?” I don’t believe it should be a concern the tattoo will grow old with you and still have the same meaning. I don’t see it as a negative.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

Every time I work on a project, and we end up with something completely different, I make the customer even happier with the final result. ✕

9 Years

Ten years ago, I started my tattoo career in my hometown of Wisconsin and then expanded to the panhandle of Florida!

When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time with my wife and kids, either fishing or being outdoors. In the beginning years of my life, I spent a lot of time in trouble; tattooing has brought me to where I am today.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

My cousin Matt Binder was a tattoo artist. As a child, I loved to draw and enjoyed seeing his artwork being brought to life!

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Other artists that I work with all over the US. Artists such as Phil Garcia and Steve Butcher.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Had a client want a detailed fine-line design on her shoulder and refused to sit still and not pull away as I was tattooing, to the point that I kicked her out of my chair and told her not to come back.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing?

Find an artist that does your style of artwork and do everything you are asked in that proper apprenticeship. Don’t just go buy a machine off eBay and start scratching.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Technology has brought us into a new era. You have to evolve with the time and age to stay relevant; however, I will also share my knowledge of the tradition of tattooing that has brought us to where we are today.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

Constantly being able to evolve my skills and always learning.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry?

That we can tattoo tiny stuff, and it stays that way. Also, all we do is tattoo and do not have lives of our own and families.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life?

Try to maintain my days and recently learned to take time away from work or try to do things where I won’t have my phone in my hand. ✕

Artist

With over a decade of experience, Joshua Gallant is an award-winning, well-traveled tattoo artist. He was born in Detroit and settled with his family in Fort Wayne, IN. Joshua currently tattoos at Grade A Tattoos and Body Piercings, where he specializes in a style all his own, combining watercolor, realism, surrealism, and pop art, among others ⸺

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I actually did two apprenticeships, the first one was kind of a joke, but it got me going in the right direction; the second one was taken much more seriously and ended in success ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I struggled for the first 4-5 years at this; my biggest challenge was my fear of failure… I got some great advice from Josh Duffy! He said, “Don’t let that fear hold you back; if you do, you’ll have nothing but regret.” After that brief conversation, my life changed cause I made it so! What are some things you’d like to accomplish in the tattoo industry? I would like to eventually be a part of a large collective of artists that work

JOSHUA GALLANT

well together as well as grow in other areas! I’d like to have my fingers in all kinds of things, from tattoo supplies to educational workshops to running my own conventions! Sky’s the limit, baby!! ⸺ What made you want to start tattooing? I didn’t even mean for it to happen; I just fell into this! I was in the process of cleaning up my life and getting some things straight. I was going to school to be a chef, and at the time, I ran into a guy I had gotten a couple of tattoos from; he had just gotten out of prison… we linked up, and he tattooed me a couple of times, and showed me a few things here and there. I then asked him for an apprenticeship. It wasn’t the best apprenticeship, but it got me on the right path Do you do collaborations? I try to do as many as I can for many reasons, but the main one is the knowledge I can get from that other artist! There is always something new to learn and always someone who has a better way of doing things; maybe I’m the one to teach someone something! Collaborations are the cornerstone of a lot of my success! Plus, they can be a lot of fun!. ✕

My name is Julia Penza. I am 39 years old. I was born in Russia. For almost seven years, I have been living in the USA. Despite my love for drawing, my previous job was related to IT. But fate has developed in such a way that now drawing has become my job.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? No, because I already knew how to draw. It’s just other materials that you need to adapt to. The main difficulties are in the skin types of clients. Fake skin and real skin are completely different things.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? In the middle of the work, when the tattoo is half done, I can already see the result of the work, and this inspires me to work further, although I get tired by the end of the work. I also love the end of the job when clients look in the mirror with a smile.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing?

Learn to draw first. Progress in tattooing depends on the ability to draw and the ability to analyze work in order to be able to improve it.

JULIA PENZA Artist

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? The first is to choose a tattoo artist for his tattoos. The quality of work can only be judged by his portfolio. The second misconception is the desire to cover the old massive black tattoo with a light, elegant outline.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

Tattoos are a kind of accessories. So it depends on the design. I like complex designs or simple ones if they are well done. It is also great that a tattoo can hide skin imperfections (scars, pigmentation, veins, etc.)

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done?

So far, my favorite tattoo is an Asian girl on a chest. This tattoo was made especially for the convention. It took two first places. I spent 22 hours on it. My friend, whom I did, told me to do whatever I wanted.

So this is what I did.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Actually, there is not enough time. On the weekends, I usually work on designs and give online consultations. But if there is an opportunity, I try to go somewhere. I especially love roller coasters. ✕

Artist

I was born in Oxnard, CA, in 1989 and named Candice Renee’. I was gifted the name Renee’, my mother’s artist name. The name she used to sign every painting with when she finished.

My love for art originally stemmed from a seed of grief in 1994 when I lost my mother. At four years old, I found myself in her art studio looking for her, but in the wake of her sudden disappearance, all that was left was her empty easel and dried paints from her last painting pallet. It was there I poured my paints on top of hers and began to paint. I found comfort in the act of creation; although she was gone, I felt for the first time closer to her.

By 1995 I was adopted and separated from my biological family, adopted by the same man that caused my mother’s demise. Looking back now as an adult, art has always been my escape. I couldn’t answer the questions I had as a child, so….I painted, I created, and I disassociated with my reality for years, yearning to find beauty where there was none.

I was finally able to leave out on my own at 17 years old and began working full-time and painting on the side. As an adult, my art evolved

KANDI

from my private emotional crutch to a small supplemental income. I was selling canvas art a few times a year and really found fulfillment in rehoming the paintings I had created.

In my 20s is when my art evolved from canvas to skin. Night after night, between work, college, and juggling the task of motherhood, I devoted every second to learning the craft of tattooing. Humble beginnings full of trial and error at my dining room table, on whoever was willing or on oranges.

12 years later, fast forward, and here I am, the same person still optimistic that my art will carry me forward into the next chapter of my life. My art is no longer my disassociation tool but a way to live ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? One of the challenges I’ve learned over the years has been tattooing is something you eat, breathe and live. Although I live for it every day, it has consumed my identity. No one talks about how isolating that notion is. Finding balance in my life has been a major obstacle when all I can think about is the next tattoo I’m going to do, but the truth is I wouldn’t want it any other way. ✕

I was raised in Ohio but moved to Southern Ohio to pursue college. I have two BAs in Fine Arts and Theatre from Marietta College but decided to pursue tattooing after a menagerie of different careers, and I haven’t looked back! My partner and I got married in 2020 but decided to move to Daytona so I could further my tattooing career, and we could be closer to family.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? The industry, like anything else, is always going to grow. Art in and of itself is ever-evolving, and I am always game to learn a new style, machine type or even try something new! I hope it can grow to be more about the art and technique sharing, but either way, I am more than happy to adapt. If you stop trying to grow, maybe it’s time to try something new.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? It is definitely hard to pick, but I started a Viking-inspired sleeve on this gentleman, and the portraits of the warriors were of his kids!

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? It can be hard for all of us, but it helps to have backstories for pieces, even if it is just a funny story the client has. Even little details can help spark concepts to make the piece better.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? The industry itself can still be cut-throat, especially in small-town America. Sometimes all you can do is power through and just keep getting better, proving you deserve to be here.

Artist

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Scheduling time for yourself and your family/friends. It can be easy to just focus on the work, but planning nothing days or fun friend dates definitely helps!

If anything, what would you change about the industry? I would love to see books published with up-to-date information on techniques, scientific studies about how work changes our body’s composition, and the realities of what it takes to actually be productive in the industry. ✕

Artist

KATE PERETS

My name is Kate; my parents are from Ukraine. I was born in Russia. I went to a children’s drawing school for nine years, then to a design college for four years, and I also have a higher education; I am a teacher. I started tattooing at the age of 20, and I never gave it up. This is my life’s work. I travel and work a lot in different countries. I have lived in India, Poland, Uruguay. This year I will be 30 years old, and I have made my dream come true. This year I live in America ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part is when the client looks in the mirror at the end of the session, their eyes are shining, and they are really happy. And when the client suggests me to other people ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I work a lot. A really lot. But I am disciplined. I never drink or rest when I make a sketch for a client. I sit down, take the tablet and think about the client’s tattoo. No

orders, calls, or anything else. When I finish the design, I take my phone and answer all the clients. I’m not doing anything else at that moment. And when I spend time with friends, I don’t respond to customers. No multitasking! Do everything 100%! ⸺ How do you find your style in tattoos? My advice is to create a folder on your computer. Save everything you like there; tattoos, pictures, whatever. It’s like a stream of consciousness. Purple slippers, puppy, palm tree, or abstraction. Then look at the images and think about what unites them. There were photos of models and graffiti in my folder We know that you came from another country. How difficult was it to do this, and what method did you use? Yes, I came using a visa for talented people; O1. I think this is a very complicated visa, a complicated case. A lot of work, time, and money needs to be spent to get this. But I didn’t regret it for a single second. ✕

My name is Vladimir. I was born in Ukraine but have lived my entire life in a small town in Russia. I’m from an artistic family and have been surrounded by art since early childhood.

I attended art school, where drawing became my true passion. But upon graduating from high school, I needed a profession that “would feed me” in the future, and art wasn’t something that could provide a stable income in Russia–it was almost impossible to make a living as an artist. I attended an agricultural university and graduated with a degree in agronomy. After working for five years, I finally decided that it was not the path for me, and my passion for art started dominating my mind. I tried various things: from sculpture to interior design, and one day, quite accidentally, I saw a tattoo made by Ukrainian artist Dmitry Samokhin, which changed my life dramatically! I quit my job and began my journey as an independent artist. Ten years later, I’m still here looking for inspiration and getting better every day of my life, improving my skills, and trying something new and fun.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’m from an artistic family. When I was a kid, I attended the local art school, and drawing became my true passion. When I first saw the tattoo made by Ukrainian artist Dmirty Samokhin, I was deeply impressed and decided to give it a try. That’s how my journey in this fantastic industry began.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I learned everything on my own, step-by-step, spending hours learning from my mistakes.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I’m getting my inspiration from various artists in many different genres visiting art galleries around the world.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I was always artistic, and I’m so happy that everyone around me supported my choice.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I enjoy every second of my work: from discussing clients’ ideas to the final touches.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t do tattoos on genitals.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? My wife is also a talented tattoo artist, so we understand each other very well, and her support is extremely valuable and inspirational for me. ✕

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

Being a young punk ass kid, tattooing kind of came out of nowhere and saved my life. I always skipped school with older friends and would watch them get tattoos and always thought to myself, I could do this but better What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My father hated it at first. My grandma tells me I used to be a beautiful boy. I think they have all accepted it and are proud of where I’ve come from and where I’m at now. Classic “you’ll never go anywhere with that” scenario ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Keep it in your pants because I’m never going to tattoo it. If you aren’t heavily tattooed, I won’t do any job-stoppers on you. And honestly, if it’s not my style or vibe, I’ll pass it off to someone I know will love working on it more than I will Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I’ve watched grown men puke down themselves like a water fountain in the middle of getting

a tattoo. I’ve watched people face plant off the chair. I’ve been lucky enough to never have to deal with anything too bad What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The freedom of expression; traveling to new places and being able to take my craft anywhere in the world is a close second How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I constantly try to be better than the last tattoo I made. It’s a battle with myself. Be your own motivation, and never compare yourself to the next guy Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? It’s hard when you first start off trying to build a clientele, trying to find who you are in this industry. I started young, and it was hard to be an unpaid apprentice and still survive on my own ⸺ Do you play music as well? Can you tell us more about that? Absolutely! I play guitar in a metal hardcore band called Rotted Remains. You can find us on Spotify or any of your favorite streaming platforms. Follow us on Instagram @rottedremains. ✕

Inspired tattoo artist based out of St Augustine, FL. Coming from being a graphite artist, naturally, I push toward black and grey tattoos. I have been tattooing since 2019, have had many obstacles, and strive to do better every day.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I have always aspired to become a tattoo artist, though I had a previous career. I had a lifealtering injury, ending my career as an ironworker. Tattooing saved my life, and I owe it that.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I was denied 30 times; didn’t get upset. I asked what adjustments I needed to make. When I finally got one, my first tattoo was pretty rough; though It just made me try harder.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Patience is the most important thing. Choosing an artist and letting them do what they do best. I believe a tattoo is a collaboration between the client and artist, and they need to match. Not everyone is for everyone.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were all fully supportive and pushed and supported me. Huge appreciation for my uncle and aunts, Gordon Moore, Pamela Scott Moore, and Pam Moore. They were huge supporters and hype about my art even before I started tattooing. Though they have passed, I plan to make them proud.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Being able to express yourself in a physical form of art is amazing. It’s also amazing when you get people that appreciate it enough to wear it for life. Without supportive clients, we are nothing.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Tattooing only gives you what you give to it.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? The tattooing industry is constantly changing. Some for good, some for bad. I adapt by staying on my path and continue striving to do better.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? We all go through burnt-out stages and sometimes plateaus. I have found that traveling and conventions help me. It’s also key to staying in communication with artists around the world, getting constructive critiques, and staying on the plan. ✕

Artist

Hey! I’m LaLa. Throughout my life, I have always been a creative. Art speaks to me. It breathes life into me. I’ve been obsessed with art, and being able to work on my art is awesome. I live my best life creating art for myself and others. I’m always looking for ways to improve, with techniques to reach the personal goals I have with my work Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Anything and everything. Bright colors appeal to me. I do spend a lot of time in nature, and that helps me understand florals Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I approach every tattoo session, either on me or by myself, as a learning experience ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Keep your head down and work. Put all of your heart and soul into it. Passion will help your skills improve ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I tattooed a cartoon depiction of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Michaelangelo, combined with Hell Raiser. I called him MicHELLangelo. It was a fun concept from start to

finish, and I am super proud of how it turned out ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Looking at art, other tattoo artists, connections with colleagues, tattoo conventions, and visiting art museums ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? There have been times when I worked with people who were only interested in opportunities that I created for myself (and them by proxy.) Being able to set boundaries with the people around you will help you focus on being the best tattoo artist you’re trying to be ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I’ve only recently started trying to create a healthier work/life balance. Because I’m so passionate about my belief in giving good tattoos and a good experience, I focused solely on tattooing for four years. Now that I feel I have a decent grasp, I am beginning to enjoy hobbies and rest a little more. For a time, it was tattoo life 24/7, and it was not a sacrifice to reach certain goals with my artwork. ✕ tattoosbylala

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I studied art in Cuba and always loved the tattoo culture. So after I graduated, I decided to give it a shot, and I fell in love immediately.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? My first years in Cuba were hard cause I didn’t have access to a lot of information or material, and I improvised a lot. But I met some great artists back then, and through YouTube tutorials, I learned step by step.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Mostly artists that were successful in translating art into the whole tattoo world. Samohin, James Tex, Freddy Negrete, Waler Montero, Hernan Yepes, and some others.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Be really careful about the choice and do the proper search for an artist that will deliver what they really want. And overall, they need to respect and let the artist flow with the idea cause that’s how you get amazing art on your skin.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Never quit studying cause nowadays you can have access to everything. Respect the artist that has been doing this for a longer period of time and have respect for the client; they are not just a canvas.

Artist

LEGONIER_ART

plascencia1940 @gmail.com @legonier_art Instagram

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I do a lot of portraits cause I really like that experience. But one particular portrait that I did for a mom was an amazing thing cause the reaction of people was off the charts. And the model was so glad when she got to see the tattoo that added an infinite amount of meaning to that piece. It was a couple of years ago, and to this day, I still get random texts from new people giving me compliments.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? This world can be overwhelming, and sometimes you can think that you’ll never have the talent or the results of “X”

artist. But hard work and commitment can take you far in this life. I think that the obstacle most of the time is the mind. If you are capable of thinking about it, you can achieve it. The biggest challenge is to separate your work from others; that takes time and a lot of knowledge. ✕

Artist

I have been tattooing for roughly 10 years out of Illinois. Born and raised in Chicago, I’m a self-taught artist. I never had the opportunity to get an apprenticeship, so I just pushed myself to keep going. Then, I got my first break in a tattoo shop located in Fox Lake. It was called Exploited Tattoo, and I have been tattooing professionally ever since ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I used to be a barber and owned my own shop. I rented an extra room I had in the shop to a tattoo artist. When I saw him tattoo, I said to myself I can do that. So, I bought myself some tattoo equipment and started practicing Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I never had an apprenticeship. Everywhere I went, they wanted way too much money, and I couldn’t afford it ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were very supportive and pushed me even harder. Especially my

mother; she let me tattoo her first tattoo What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I get paid to draw on people. I love the fact that I actually do what I love for a living and can support my family with my art Why is this the best job in the world? It’s the best job in the world because you can literally make money anywhere in the world, and you can do it with your artwork and you get to do something you love What is one of the best feelings after finishing a tattoo? The best feeling is when the client looks at their tattoo and tells you how much they love it, how you did an awesome job, and how you surpassed their expectations on the work you’ve done Why should a client tip after a tattoo? A client should tip after a tattoo because this is a service industry. We are carrying out a task and providing services that not everyone can do, especially when the artist does a great job on the tattoo. ✕

LEON CONGENIE

Juggernaut Tattoo

Horror/Anime Specialization

“Heavy Inks”

5 Years

Tattooing

Miami, FL Location Independent Artist

Hand Poke/ Blackwork Specialization

noah_davila2 @hotmail.com @dotsnoah Instagram dotsnoah .com

DOTSNOAH Artist

Hello! My name is Noah Davila, 27. I was born in Orlando, FL, mainly raised in Miami, and also lived six years in South America, five years in Argentina, and one year in Chile.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Growing up I always thought body modifications were pretty cool, like how one could change their appearance with either a tattoo or a piercing. I became very interested in tattoos around age 17 but never thought about being a tattoo artist. At age 19, I got my first tattoo ever with Ignacio Ayala, which ended up being my mentor two years later at Society Ink in Calle 8, Little Havana.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? During my apprenticeship, I was learning both how to draw and tattoo at the same time. In my first year, I did a few tattoos with the machine, but it was very scary and overwhelming at the time, so I picked up hand poking. The hand poke method really taught me how the needle works since it’s tattooing but dot by dot, like slow-mo. After a year or so, it made me more confident in picking the machine back up, and I now provide both methods depending on the size of the piece and the placement.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? The way music makes me feel inspires a lot of my drawings. I feel, I visualize, and I project!

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Research a tattoo artist that does the style that you’re looking for and look at their work. You don’t go to an Asian restaurant expecting them to serve burgers and fries; you know what I mean?

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They’ve been nothing but supportive.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Literally, the whole process from start to finish.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I’d rather starve than do a racist tattoo.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Be patient with yourself. There’s something to learn with every tattoo you do.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Coming across awesome people and getting to know them. ✕

Artist

LOGAN PERRY

My name is Logan Perry, also known as the Kirin Cowboy; I am a tattoo artist and a co-owner of San Tattoo in Houston, Texas What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? For me, seeing people with tattoos is initially what started what I would call a lifelong obsession. There was something about being young and seeing dragons and Koi fish and waves and skulls on people’s bodies that flipped a switch in my brain ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? I think understanding, appreciating, and learning the history of tattooing and giving back to tattooing as much as you can is the most important thing you can do if you’re getting into tattooing. There’s so much to learn, and keep learning. I think it’s important to be open to criticism as well as encouragement so you never stop growing How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I think with the way things are; everything

is so fast-paced. I really think the only thing we can do is just keep tattooing. There’s a lot that can get complicated and lost in the chaos, and I think for me keeping it simple is my plan. Constantly get better at tattooing, and give back to the craft as much as I can ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? I think a big misconception is that a Tattoo is a Tattoo. I think a lot of artists get asked to do work that isn’t in their style or isn’t something they would be comfortable doing, and I think that people really just think that because you can tattoo, you can tattoo anything or should be able to ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I think what I enjoy most about tattooing is being a part of a culture that I’ve loved and appreciated for so long ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I honestly don’t think that I have one single favorite tattoo that I’ve ever done. I love all of the tattoos that I do, but for sure, my favorite thing to work on is large scale, sleeves, back suits, and body suits. ✕

Artist

3 Years

Tattooing

Victoria, BC Location

The Brass Iris Studio Owner/Artist

Illustrative/ Contemporary B&G Specialization

softwitchyboi @gmail.com

@softwitchyboi Instagram

softwitchyboi .com

LEOPOLD KNOX

Most of my friends, family, and clients would describe me as a force of chaotic good. I’m always working. Tattooing has been my dream since I was six years old, and now my goal is to provide a comfortable, accountable, and welcoming community space for all clients and new or experienced artists alike to come together and share their passion for this wonderful art form. When not tattooing or working, I’m usually pursuing some new hobby, baking, or cooking for friends.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I was hugely inspired by the artist Cate Webb1 when I was younger (and still am) and my good friends Paige

Parker 2, and Bug3, who showed me what was possible and encouraged me through the years. I’m also wonderfully inspired by nature & pop culture!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The actual tattooing process, I love getting into the zone, the focus, the challenge, creating a piece of art that will last a lifetime, connecting with clients, and making the experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible for them… Heck yeah.

What are some ways you make tattooing more comfortable and accessible for your clients? Taking the time to make sure your client is comfortable and feels supported is a great way to ensure they have a good experience, and often leads to repeat clients and good reviews. I always offer my clients water, snacks, extra support, fidget toys, or stress balls. I take the time to get them comfortable in the space before we begin, give them a chance to ask questions, and assure them that they can ask for a break or breather any time they need. I keep the music low at the studio and try to keep it fairly chill. Overall, I show that I care and that I’m invested in their comfort. Getting tattooed can be scary and painful enough; I try to make it as comfortable as I can so they can focus on relaxing and getting through it. ✕

LIZ AULENBACHER Artist

Hi, I’m Liz! I’ve been drawing since before I could talk. I always knew I wanted to be an artist, but it wasn’t until I got my first tattoo when I was 16 that I knew that this career was what I’d want to dedicate my life to. I always felt there was no higher honor than being able to put your artwork on someone else’s body. I was told to get better at drawing and to come back. So l did; when I was 22, I finally got an apprenticeship and put lots of hours in. It was really tough, but it was so worth it. I never knew I’d be where I am today; I always thought I’d still be working data entry part-time and tattooing on the side. I have so much gratitude to all of my amazing clients for putting their trust in me to create their work. I’m currently learning ritual tattooing to help heal my clients with my artwork. Thank you all a million times over for allowing me to live my dream daily What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Education is key; take as many classes and seminars as you can. Never stop learning, keep

pushing yourself to try new things, and talk to other artists. Ask people you look up to for critiques; it will help you grow ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The honor of putting my artwork on someone’s skin. Having the privilege of being able to help someone love the skin they are in ⸺ Do you love where you work? Absolutely, everyone at Camp Hill Collective is so like-minded. There couldn’t be a more genuine, amazing group of people What do you do that makes you grow as an artist? I’m currently taking charcoal lessons, which will turn into oil painting lessons. I take pictures of flowers and really study their structure to understand them. I also am learning ritual tattooing so that I can help heal people with my art ⸺ What’s something that needs to change in the industry? How artists treat each other. We should all lift each other up and help each other grow. We should push for everyone to be the best they can be. It’s like that in the shop I’m in, but I’ve been in shops where it wasn’t like that. ✕

I’m a tattooer in Central Texas, and I’ve been doing this for about seven years since I started when I was 20. I like spooky stuff and love tattooing animals and dark imagery. I started tattooing in a small town in Missouri but figured life would be better in Texas, and I’ve been here ever since. When I’m not tattooing, I’m painting and hanging out with my family and spiders.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The human interaction and being able to put something on someone that they love.

LUCI Artist

7 Years Tattooing Killeen, TX Location Independent Artist Neo Trad/ B&G Realism Specialization

ellyssa.kennedy95 @gmail.com

@luci.bat.tattoo Instagram

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I absolutely will not tattoo the genitals. The smell just probably wouldn’t be very pleasant; I’ve heard too many stories from piercers and from tattooers who’ve been there and done that.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I had a chick unzip my shirt while I was tattooing her arm. That’s the only time I’ve ever been in complete shock while tattooing, and she never came back (thank God).

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The strange conversations I have with my clients while I’m doing art. It’s like we’re just hanging out while I’m doing my thing; it’s so much fun.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I can’t really think of a favorite because I have so many different ones that I like different aspects of, but the one I’m most proud of is a back piece I did inspired by the band Ghost. It’s the only complete back piece I have thus far, but I do plan on doing more larger pieces like that.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Trying to capture true color realism has been my downfall. I’m trying to practice it more on paper and canvas before I even try to attempt it (again) on a person. Pet portraits I can sometimes feel comfortable with, but color realism human portraits are a lot more difficult for me.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Oof yeah, it’s rough, man. I just have two specific days off, but even then, it seems like that’s not enough time I get to spend with my son. ✕

Artist

LUIS CARDONA

I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois; graffiti is where it all started for me as an artist ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My uncle Frankie; I saw him get his first tattoo from his best friend. I was hooked on it since then Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It was very hard, and it sucked…didn’t really learn anything…it was me watching other artists that helped me get better Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My wife and friends helped me a lot; and my uncle ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Go big or go home What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They thought I was going to fail and be a bum... they said I was crazy and I was not going to make it... but look at me now, living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I was working on a sleeve

and when it came to an end, the guy tried to rob me at gunpoint, but me being a ninja, I hit him with some nunchucks in the face, busting his face open… I was scared as fuck ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Hard work pays off in the end ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Meeting people from all over the world ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? It would be the tattoo I did on my uncle; it was a Dragon Z tattoo; I love anime ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Looking at my favorite artist’s work gets me going: Salvador Dali. I love his work so much that I have him tattooed on me ⸺

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? This is a hard one to answer because I don’t know what a “regular” life is like. I live an artist lifestyle; my wife is an artist, so I am very lucky our life pretty much evolves around work and just creating artwork. ✕

“Cito Roku”

Artist

I was born in Córdoba, Ver, México. My first contact with tattooing was at the age of 12, but I decided to pursue a career in tattooing after finishing university. My preferred style is black and gray realism, and what I enjoy tattooing the most are portraits of pets ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t give up easily. In the beginning, there are periods of high stress when the tattoo doesn’t come out as well, but with time and patience, that stage is overcome ⸺ How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Evolution is taking giant steps. We will have to try new things to stay updated in the field. For example, using artificial intelligence for design ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? A misconception that persists is discrimination against tattooed individuals. Although, I believe that in the not-so-distant future, that thought will be extinguished ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The

LUIS ESCOBEDO

story behind each tattoo. Every day is a different story. Sometimes very impressive ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done ? Of course. It was the face of a native from an African tribe. With that tattoo, we started a sleeve project. It is the most difficult portrait tattoo that I ever made ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Actually, in my daily life, what motivates me, especially, are animals and plants. Whenever I have contact with nature, it’s like resetting my mind, and inspiration comes automatically Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Leaving my career as a dentist to become a tattoo artist was not an easy thing to do. It was hard for me to make that decision How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Dividing the time. The days I rest are sacred to me. It’s just a matter of being well-organized Do you want to be a tattoo artist for the rest of your life? Of course. Nothing would make me happier than to continue doing what I do. ✕

My name is Manny Perez. I’m an artist at heart. I’ve been tattooing ever since I turned 15 years old. I never really did it for profit and started tattooing for the passion of art. If I’m not tattooing, I’m either drawing or painting oils on canvas. Mostly surreal art forms. I also paint and design custom motorcycles. I entered the professional scene just about six years ago. I’ve never had any form of apprenticeship; I just keep learning from the very last tattoo I’ve done. I’m now traveling the world doing what I love, places like Hawaii and Japan.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? The people who are coming up with a struggle are the ones who inspire me the most. I want to go as far as I can in this beautiful industry. To show people that anything is possible. You guys keep moving forward and keep inspiring me.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) The one piece of advice I can give a tattoo virgin is to invest in themselves. We, as tattoo artists, completely change our client’s appearance for the rest of their lives. It’s like surgery. Make sure to save up and get a piece of clean artwork; nowadays, people can tell about how much your tattoos are.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Tattooing will never be a job; I’ve never tattooed with the goal of money behind it... the money is extra. My favorite part of tattooing would be seeing my clients happy once I’ve tattooed a piece of my artwork on them. It’s a win-win. I’m happy, and they’re happy. The energy is always positive.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve always been an artist ever since I can remember… It’s a crazy story of how I initially started tattooing. Everybody in my neighborhood knew I could draw and paint. I was around 13/14 when one of the neighborhood homies came to me with a homemade rotary machine. He told me he knew I could draw and insisted on me tattooing him. I didn’t hesitate and got introduced to art on skin. Ever since then, I’ve continued to push myself. ✕

MANNY PEREZ

Artist

6 Years Tattooing Charlotte, NC Location

Visual Impact Tattoo Gallery Owner/Artist B&G Realism/ Full Color Realism Specialization

Instagram

MARCELA VARGAS Artist

I’m a Latina realism tattoo artist who creates to inspire and heal. I alchemize clients’ ideas, stories, and journeys and turn their pain into power. I believe this practice is sacred and tattoos are worn as energetic and visual armor. I invite clients into a spiritual tattooing journey with me in West Hollywood, California. Til death we do Arte! ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family was really excited for me! Except for my mom, she thought I was about to live a gang life. Eventually, she saw how dedicated I was to creating artwork and got tattooed by me! ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That we’re criminals! We’re simply a community of self-expression!!! What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with clients? I love being able to live life on my own terms and meeting so many beautiful souls Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My abuelitas portrait on my father’s chest. She passed away about two years ago and it means the world to me that I was

able to bring healing/comfort to my dad by always having her with him ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Working out and meditation are vital! Keep your body and mind stimulated to continue the art life in a healthy way ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Yes, it can be taxing to our mental health, having to juggle so many things. We’re so quick to compare our journeys to each other, and it’s important to stay focused on yours. Comparison is a killer to creation How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I make sure I’m taking care of my health/mental health on a daily basis. I try to be fully present in what each day brings and be authentic to myself and those around me ⸺ What are you focused on now? Creating a spiritual-led business! ⸺ What is spiritual tattooing? A process of receiving healing energy through tattooing and turning our pain into power ⸺ What’s your next goal? Having a spiritual tattooing team/clientele. ✕

Hi, my name is Mario. I am located in the heart of downtown Marion, Iowa. I’ve been tattooing for five years now and specializing in black and great realism. I’m most passionate about doing portraits because I enjoy capturing the essence of a person. I’ve been doing art for as long as I can remember and have a strong background in airbrushing. I think that’s what helped me transition into tattooing fairly quickly.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It’s very hard; I am a father of three kids and have a beautiful fiancé named Jess. Dealing with kids’ schooling, after-school activities, work, things around the house that need to be done, and trying to continue to date and grow with my partner is a lot to try and manage on a day-to-day basis. Since I am still new to tattooing, I still struggle with the balance, and that’s okay; me and my partner continue to strive to make that better each day.

Artist

If you could learn another style of tattoo, what would it be and why? I am a big fan of neo-traditional style work and how people are able to combine such amazing color palettes. I’d like to try to incorporate that in my realism one day, but baby steps.

Should an artist take on every tattoo that someone asks them to do, and why? I’d say no; it’s hard to push people away sometimes as an artist. But to truly grasp your craft, you should only be tattooing things that are in your wheelhouse, and that fit the style of your art. Some artists tend to take on projects that

At the end of the day, you are your brand. If I could change one thing in this world, what would it be and why? I’d change the way the world has become so selfish. We should always lean on each other and reach out for a helping hand. Kindness is free to give someone, and I think everyone could learn a thing or two about it. We

5 Years Tattooing

Marion, IA Location

Saged Souls Tattoo Collective Owner/Artist Realism/Neo Trad Specialization

sagedsoulstc @outlook.com

@sagedsoulstc @tattoosbymario Instagram

MARIO RUIZ

MASIVO ONE Artist

Custom lettering/Black & Grey artist. Co-owner of Infamy & Prestige Tattoo Studio, located in Passaic, NJ ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Just growing up around people that had sick art on them, but it wasn’t until I became friends with a fellow graffiti writer who also did tattoos that I saw the light. I never looked back since Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get inspired by a lot of things; different types of art mediums, music, and films; but mainly from life experiences ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? I’d say just do your research. Look into the style that you’re interested in and an artist best suited for that style. Don’t be so quick to get one done What would you say is your favorite part of the job? There are soo many, from meeting new people from all walks of life to being able to travel to tattoo, all of it. But having a client pleased

with the finished work, the satisfaction from that is beyond measure ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Those that are trying to get their first tattoos on their neck and hand or hardly have any visible work get turned down. Basically, you have to be ‘about that life’ already for me to do those jobs ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The same advice someone told me. Either do it or don’t do it. You gotta be all in ⸺

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? Exactly that, the tattooing. Just being in that zone creating. It’s a dope feeling ⸺

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? You have to be able to separate the two equally. Just as much time you spend working on your craft, you have to spend the same time working on your peace of mind. It’s easy to burn yourself out. ✕

I’m an Asheville-born tattooer who specializes in full-color neo traditional. I’ve been tattooing for about seven years now.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I saw a tattoo magazine sometime around elementary school age, and it blew my mind that people were covered in tattoos and that people were able to do some insane artwork on their skin. From then on, I’ve been obsessed with tattoos and the culture.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It took me several tries to finally get an apprenticeship. I asked around for one over and over for months and was consistently turned down, but it eventually happened, and I’m glad that I was so persistent and that I never gave up chasing my dream.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? First, make sure you have a solid mentor teach you, then practice as much as possible and be patient. Tattooing isn’t easy. You have to

work hard every day to be a good tattooer. It doesn’t happen overnight. Believe in yourself and your art, and you will be just fine.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? The industry has changed so much in just the short amount of time I’ve been part of it. Social media is a huge part of it now. You have to keep up with what is going on on social media, be willing to try new things and push yourself to do things that you might not have before.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That we are a bunch of unruly degenerates and that tattooing is easy. It’s not as much of a free-for-all as some think, which is fine. In a way, I think that having certain misconceptions about the industry is a good thing.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I enjoy that I get to do what I love every single day. Tattooing has given me a life that I could have never dreamed of. I love that I get to travel and meet new people and do one-of-a-kind pieces of art for people that they will wear for the rest of their lives. ✕ 7

Artist

Despite an innate fascination with tattoo culture, Matt initially had no inkling of his own artistic abilities. However, a turning point arrived when life took an unfortunate turn, and he found himself facing the daunting prospect of 21 years in prison due to multiple felony offenses.

During his four-year incarceration, Matt’s path took an unexpected twist. It was within the confines of the prison walls that he unearthed his latent artistic talent. Guided by his first mentor, aptly named ‘Devil,’ Matt discovered his capacity to draw, transforming his entire existence.

Although tattooing provided solace and direction, Matt faced additional trials stemming from his battle with addiction to drugs and alcohol. It took years of personal struggle, chaos, and the consequences of his actions before he found the strength to achieve sobriety on May 31st, 2017.

Being a sober tattoo artist has become the cornerstone of Matt’s extraordinary life. Combining his artistic prowess with a renewed sense of purpose, Matt has elevated the art of tattooing, leaving an indelible mark on his client’s lives.

Today, Matt Vaught is a beacon of inspiration, demonstrating the transformative power of art and perseverance. Through his artistry, Matt continues to inspire and captivate, proving that even the darkest moments can lead to the most brilliant transformations ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? n Stereotypes: One prevailing misconception is that tattooed individuals or tattoo artists are somehow “outsiders” or involved in negative lifestyles. In reality, the tattooing industry is diverse and inclusive and comprises people from all walks of life, including professionals, artists, and individuals who simply appreciate the art form. n Hygiene and Safety: Some people hold misconceptions about

MATT VAUGHT

the cleanliness and safety of tattoo studios. It’s important to debunk this myth by emphasizing that reputable tattoo artists prioritize hygiene and follow strict safety protocols. n Skill and Artistry: Another misconception is that anyone can become a tattoo artist without extensive training or artistic talent. In truth, becoming a skilled tattoo artist requires years of dedicated practice, study, and apprenticeship under experienced professionals. n Pain and Healing: While there can be discomfort during the tattooing process, the level of pain varies depending on the individual’s pain tolerance and the placement of the tattoo. Additionally, proper aftercare and following the artist’s instructions contribute to a smooth healing process, which can be faster than anticipated. n Permanence: Some individuals believe that tattoos are permanent mistakes that cannot be altered or removed. While tattoos are indeed long-lasting, advancements in tattoo removal technology have made it possible to revise or remove unwanted tattoos.

By dispelling these misconceptions, we can foster a better understanding of the tattoo industry as a respected art form, a professional field, and a vibrant community of passionate artists and enthusiasts

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My favorite tattoo is always the current project that I’m working on. I feel like if I’m doing this thing right, I will always feel that way ⸺ Do you have any hobbies? With such limited time, it can be hard to have hobbies. But some of my interests outside of traveling and family activities include attending live music events, drumming, photography, and videography What specific self-care activities do you like to do? I like to take vacations periodically with the family or just with my fiancé. I like to do hot yoga. And I am a regular part of a group that suggests service to others as a way of self-care. ✕

I’m Mel Monies, and I’ve been tattooing professionally in Colorado for two years. I love my little client crew; they are the best. I enjoy painting flash and tattooing fullcolor traditional pieces.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Tattooing found me. Something that kept popping up in my life, and it has been a saving grace. I am so grateful. I used to be a preschool teacher; my degree is in early education. I never thought back then I’d be where I am now. Now, I would never do anything else. I’m a tattooer ‘til I die!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The connections I make with my clients. Making them happy. My evening tattoo sessions with friends keep me at the studio ‘til midnight. I don’t have much of a social life outside of work. These times are my therapy as well.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will do it all within reason.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Music, spirituality, coffee. Finding your zen and inner magic in the midst of all the chaos.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist?

Dealing with other artists’ weird egos at the shops. It’s not really an obstacle, though; it makes you stronger and more resilient.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Tattooing is my life. It’s a 24 hr job. You develop a “personal life” that stems directly from tattooing. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

What is it like being a woman in the tattoo industry? It pushes me to really prove myself and work harder. I’m much more than just a pretty face.

What is it like being a Christian working in the tattoo industry? I’ve dealt with a lot of hatred toward my spiritual beliefs. A lot of shit-talking from other artists. There are other belief systems that have been glamorized in the industry. I’m true to myself, and that’s something I won’t bend on. Live and let live!

What are your future tattooing goals? To continue to grow as an artist and put cool tattoos out there that are unique to me!. ✕

2 Years

Tattooing

Denver, CO Location

Independent Artist

American Trad/ Neo Trad Specialization

meowltattoo

@gmail.com

@meowltattoo

Instagram

MEL MONIES Artist

MIKE FULLER Artist

My name is Mike Fuller; been tattooing nine and a half years. Started when I was 18. Luckily got offered an apprenticeship when I went to get my first shop tattoo by Chris G at G Ink... rest in peace. After almost a year over there, I ventured off to Dinamik Tattoo up here in Hesperia, and I was there for about six years. Learned a lot over there. After I felt like I learned what I did, I felt like it was time to move on, and so that’s when I saw Brian Gonzalez at Ink Slingers posted that he was hiring, and sure enough, he hired me; never thought I would land in that shop because I always looked up to those guys, and to finally learn from them and the team in there, they really pushed my art to the next level. I was living in Apple Valley at the time, driving down there to Alhambra, so it was about two hours there and two hours back. I was there almost a year, and three of my cars throughout the time took a shit. After the third, I said I was over the drive, and that’s when I opened my shop, Suffer To Succeed Tattoo. Been open for two years now and I and my team are killing it and

only going to grow to be better What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I have been getting tatted since I was 15. So when the opportunity came to me, and I got offered it, I had no job, I was living with my mom, making no money, so I ran with it. Never looked back ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Everyone who came out of Ink Slingers Studio. All the Og’s. Brian Gonzalez, Frank Sanchez, Chente, Ricardo Avila, Tommy Montoya, Fred Flores, the list goes on. As for lettering artists, I would say my favorite dude is Case One. Homie is just crispy with all styles ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family and close friends supported me to the fullest. Obviously, you get those friends that start hating saying he sucks and blah blah blah, but who starts off being good? My close homies and family would always let me practice whatever I wanted to do on them, and I felt like that was what helped me grow. ✕

Hi, I’m 30 years old and tattoo at King’s Ink in Ontario, California.

I specialize in Anime and color tattoos. I am pretty simple and enjoy spending time with my family and working out.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Some inspiration comes from the artists I work around as well as those that I follow. I’m quite hard on myself and try not to compare myself but try my best to stay true to what I want to create. My main inspiration comes from Anime and the Japanese culture that surrounds it.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

I enjoy the different artists and clients I meet. Learning the different walks of life people live. It’s a privilege I try not to take for granted; for someone to trust me with their skin and give them a piece to enjoy for a lifetime.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? One of the main challenges I’ve had to face is consistency. It’s a hard job to be ready for every single tattoo and give everything you can, knowing it’s permanent. And also to push with design, color, line weight, and application.

Artist

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life?

Although my interests are simple; they all require time and effort to a crazy degree. My main way would have to be working out. It keeps my mind level and is a good way to battle anxiety and keep me healthy. I just try to manage my time the best I can, but I am in no way perfect.

How long do you plan on tattooing? It’s hard to say. I’m only human, and with that comes age. I can’t say until I’m dead, as much as I want to, because life can bite you in all sorts of ways. So I’ll just say as long as I’m able to.

4 Years Tattooing Ontario, CA Location Independent Artist Anime/Color Specialization mikeygarrido @gmail.com @kohaitattoo Instagram

How do you distinguish yourself from other artists?

I put a lot of time and effort into my designs. It can take hours and hours to come up with something I’m happy with. From ideas of how the character expresses themselves to who they are. If I get asked to tattoo something I haven’t seen, I do research beforehand, trying to understand the subject. ✕

MIKEY GARRIDO

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

My brother is the push behind my art as well as my coworkers who talk about tattoos ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? Got declined a few times. Overall, the persistence and strength of your portfolio will land you at the shop you are supposed to be at ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Don’t listen to your friend who just got tattooed. Sleep, eat, hydrate ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?

Supported me with open arms. If you give your all into something, the ones who love you will do nothing less ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Being able to create connections with

clients and make their dreams come true when it comes to the art they will have for the rest of their life ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Listen. Study. Practice How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Innovation is at its finest, and it’s a train to either get on or be passed by Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? Any animal ever ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? At times it will consume your life. Find what works for your personal life and demand that schedule from your clients. ✕

Comal River Tattoo is the first tattoo shop located in the heart of historic Downtown New Braunfels, Texas. We are a traditional shop with a wide variety of other styles available. So, whether you’re looking for some awesome off-the-wall flash or a completely custom sleeve, we’ve got someone for you.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That it’s all play and no work, it’s the complete opposite, so you better be in love with it.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My favorite tattoo I’ve ever done was tattooing my graffiti name on my mother. That’s a memory that will always remain.

What is your view on tattoo apprentices?

I believe being an apprentice is wearing a badge of honor. I believe you should have the title of shop hand, and you earn your way into the apprenticeship level. Paying dues is slowly becoming a lost art; of course, there is no such thing as bad students but only bad teachers. With that being said, you must be ready to accept a student and understand it’s your responsibility to be who you are, allowing them into the tattoo world underneath you. At the same time, as the apprentice, you must understand that you are a student of the craft and try to seek out the correct mentor and what comes with that.

If you could tattoo anyone alive or passed, who would it be and why? It would have to be Barney or Betty Hill. The couple that was abducted by aliens in 1961. Of course, I’ve heard the old tapes and stories about their abduction. But I would absolutely love to sit back and talk about their experience while tattooing them. But the real question is... do you think they would get a tattoo of an alien or the alien craft that sucked them up!?

Are you opening additional tattoo shops? I don’t plan on opening additional shops. I feel like opening multiple shops in different cities, towns, etc., is unnecessary, really. Luckily, Comal River Tattoo is a large enough establishment that allows the space for events and can sustain multiple artists. I really want to hone in on this place and lead it into a legendary existence if the blessings allow. ✕

NEILREYESTATTOO Artist

Specialize in Japanese-style tattoos, photo realism, portraits, and tribal What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I like people who have tattoos, and it’s my greatest dream to become a great artist ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It is hard at first; practice is always the key... one drawing a day ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My family ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Do their research first, like checking everything ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They support me 100%, and they are so proud What would you say is your favorite part of the job? When I see them happy, I give more than they expected ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Practice on paper a lot... before attempting on the skin ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing

industry? They think that tattooing is easy ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? When I create a piece that come from my imagination ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I did a full leg tattoo for my friend... that’s what I was dreaming of having; it’s all about childhood memories How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Keep pushing myself to get better and better every day ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? When the person wants a tattoo, and it is hard for them to explain... keep changing the design ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Always humble and ready to learn something ⸺ What is your best tattoo? The last one I did ⸺ What is the key to becoming a great tattoo artist? Keep practicing ⸺ How do you work you’re your clients? As much as possible, do what they want, and incorporate my style. ✕

Hi, my name is Nick Bennett. I’m a traditional style tattooer and owner of The Salty Sailor Tattoo Co. in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I just love tattooing. I love meeting people, sharing stories, and giving someone something that excites them as much as it does me.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Certain imagery, of course, I will turn away, but as far as location; not really. Certain spots just require an extra handling fee.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I had a client come in smelling horrible. I had about ten minutes left when I realized she was covered all down her back in dog shit.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I did a tiger on my brother’s chest. It’s tough and readable from across the room. It’s made good strides in the tattoo contests. So it’s fun to show off and talk with others about it.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Seeing my peers and homies killing it. Makes me want to do better every day.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I tend to sit around and just tear myself apart about not doing or being good enough. Some days, you just want to give up, and it shows. You just have to use it as fuel.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I tattoo close to six to seven days a week pretty regularly. I just make sure I set certain hours of my day each day aside for my time or just take off when I need to.

Do you prefer coils or rotary? I’m a coil kind of guy, but I do use a DK46er.

What do you think makes a great tattoo? Clean line work, smooth blends, and solid saturation.

What’s your favorite needle grouping? I like to use a 9 flat mag and typically a 9 or 11 bold for a liner. ✕

NICOLE SUNDAY Artist

I’m a tattooer and a professor. I was drawn to tattooing as an art form and a way of relating to the world before starting my formal apprenticeship, researching styles, techniques, mechanics, as well as its multiple histories. Painting and drawing have always been a part of my life, but different events conspired to make tattooing feel like a real possibility rather than something unattainable. So I put together a portfolio and sought out a mentorship. I have quickly become invested in all of the ways that tattooing fulfills different needs for people, from pleasure and entertainment to mourning and remembrance. I love the challenge posed by the constraints of the art form - for instance, body shape, design, pain thresholds, and an artist’s abilities - and creating images with the potential to mean so many different things over the course of a life. Tattoos are a profound way of expressing one’s body and self at a time when increasingly our lives are regulated by others or things that are experienced as out of our control ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I apprenticed at a street shop for nine months before moving toward working independently. At the shop, my mentor expected apprentices to start tattooing people right away. His philosophy was that one can only get better on real skin. Within a

couple of weeks of getting my license, I was doing six-hour tattoos most nights. I definitely thrived on the intensity and community of a high-energy shop, and we were always honest about our respective levels of experience with clients ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I love turn-of-the-century classic tattoo imagery, including works by Sutherland Macdonald, George Burchett, and Ben Corday. I also spend a lot of time following the connections between Japanese and Philippine influences on early traditional tattooing styles. Hawai’i, where I live, was a major crossroads for many tattoo styles from around the world. I’m interested in how being in this place means being part of those connections. I follow and practice certain styles, but a client’s project really drives how much I dip into a particular tattoo history. What comes out reflects my interests, but it takes form because of a relationship What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Try to figure out where your client is coming from. Think more about what the art means to them than what the image is. This is the hardest part of the work, but for me, it is also the most fulfilling. More practically, learn proper sanitation and check in with your clients regularly during the tattoo. ✕

I’ve been tattooing since 2010 with a focus on blackwork, geometric, and florals. I also love doing tiny tattoos on fingers and incorporating magick into my work through custom sigil work. Centering my career around artistry has always been my goal, even from a very young age, which terrified my mom. I count myself lucky to be where I am in this career and use that to benefit my community by hosting fundraisers when I can for causes that are dear to my heart. I grew up in Virginia Beach and very much enjoy my life on the east coast. My other hobbies include traveling and camping with my husband, who, funnily enough, has no tattoos, whereas I have a full-body suit. I also love thrifting and collecting antiques to decorate our maximalist home, which is heavily inspired by my high school art teacher. And most importantly, I am obsessed with my cat, Skwisgaar.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I think one of the biggest obstacles lately has come from my autoimmune disease diagnosis in 2018, which left me unable to walk for a while and having to navigate tattooing with immense body pain. I have had to make so many adjustments to my schedule and only accept tattoos on areas of the body that are “easy” to tattoo in order to not trigger a flare-up, which can present itself often as a debilitating

13 Years Tattooing Norfolk, VA Location Independent Artist Blackwork/ Linework Specialization

nikkiheritattoos @gmail.com

@nikkiheritattoos Instagram

back or shoulder injury that would put me out of work for a week or more. I am truly lucky to have such understanding and flexible clients who are able to move the placement of their tattoo if it is in an area that I am unable to tattoo for fear of breaking my body. I have started incorporating more “difficult” areas back into my schedule but with new and experimental approaches so that I am more attainable to my clientele for what they are seeking while also being more gentle on my body.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I used to have so much trouble with this and found that placing strong boundaries and creating policies that I stick to has helped greatly in separating my work from my personal life. I work when I am at the shop, and I enjoy the rest of my life when I am not. Some prefer to be all-encompassed by tattooing, and that’s just fine, but I needed to find a solid balance for myself because I felt like I was going crazy for a bit! So I always make sure I have time at the shop set aside specifically for drawing and answering emails because when I’m home, I’m HOME! ✕

Artist

NIKKI TIME

I grew up in Oregon. Had a great life of everything outdoors, riding motocross and stirring up way too much fun. One day I was talking with my friend who owns a shop in Portland, and he told me to go to Minneapolis to find an apprenticeship. He said there are amazing artists in the Midwest, and it isn’t flooded with tattoo artists like the west coast. So I packed my U-Haul and headed east.

Found an apprenticeship and did snow removal at night. It was long days and cold nights. But I kept going. One day I was walking to the store and saw a for rent sign in the window of a building across the street.

My dream was to start my own shop. So I went for it! The hardest and scariest thing I have ever done. I opened my doors a decade ago with only $7 dollars in my pocket.

I have had the honor to work with amazing artists. Picked up some tattoo awards, best tattoo shop awards, and female business entrepreneur for the State of MN award. It has been an amazing journey so

far, and I am super excited to see what Minneapolis Tattoo Shop has in store for the future ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Do your research on the artist and the shop. Make sure the artist’s style is the style you are seeking. Let the artist direct the art. They know what will work the best ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Creating art that changes my client’s life. Seeing their smiles helps them overcome life challenges ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Never give up, work hard, and stay humble ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with clients? Getting to know my clients and hearing all their stories. I have so many clients that have become some of my closest friends ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? That is probably the hardest part of the job. Let’s just say I have a very patient and understanding wife, family, and friends. ✕

I’m originally from Chicago, IL, and that’s where I started my journey in 2012 to become a tattoo artist. An artist from the same area got me started and helped me get my feet wet. Four years later, I moved to Grand Rapids, MI, and worked at two different shops within a year and a half. After a year and a half, I moved to Toledo, OH, where I’ve been since 2018. I now work at 2Six Tattoo Studio. I’m a black and grey tattoo artist, and I’m down to do anything as long as it’s black and grey. I’ll do a splash of color in my B&G pieces if I think it’ll add to the WOW factor.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I’m inspired by other tattoo artists and all forms of art. I’ve attended the Chicago Tattoo Convention and also now the Toledo Tattoo Festival (where I won 2nd place for best portrait). Those events always give me an extra boost. Also, doing guest spots helps. I got the opportunity to guest spot a Pony Lawson and Gary Parisi shop in Chicago twice so far, and they all inspire me.

NOLAN MOORE Artist

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The most important advice I could give is to be all the way committed. This is not a side hustle. If you truly want to give human beings amazing art on their skin, you have to be fully invested. Being fully invested also comes with finding an established tattoo artist who can pass on the knowledge that they have collected over the years. I learned from someone for a year, but after that, I was on my own, and I should have continued learning under experienced artists longer. Save yourself years of mistakes, stay under someone’s wing, and be ALL IN. It’s a sacrifice you won’t regret. Learn to love the process; you’ll hit milestones, but the process is honestly never over.

11 Years Tattooing

Toledo, OH Location Independent Artist

B&G/Realism Specialization

mooretattoosxart @gmail.com

@mooretattoosxart Instagram

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? What I enjoy most about tattooing is simply creating a piece of art on a human canvas and knowing I made my clients happy. We work for our clients, and they are giving us hard-earned money. Giving them a piece of my art that they are proud to show off is why we do what we do. ✕

My name is Nuu! I previously attended Colorado State University and enlisted in the Army. Tattooing is a dream I never knew I had.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Kiko, my artist in Alaska. We talked about my drawings and paintings. He told me to try it out; it turns out I loved it and I balanced Army and learning how to tattoo.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?

Everyone was very supportive and nervous to see myself go into an unknown path with no true future.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love interacting with different people every day. Whether it’s my clients or my coworker’s clients, it’s also a satisfying feeling knowing someone trusts me enough to permanently mark them. It’s an honor.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Trust your process. Tattooing is completely dependent on how badly you want to learn and improve.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? No clue what the future is in this industry, but we will roll with the punches!

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That the client doesn’t have as much say as the artist, it’s your body at the end of the day. Respect it, and if you need to walk away, do it.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I did a custom design that incorporated my spin on Jasmine and Raz from Aladin with sand script floating underneath. The shading with the bold red is my favorite look.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I want to be able to look back and not regret anything. I have had years of practice of self-motivation with college football and the Army. Knowing I only get better the more I put into this helps a lot.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? When I first started at the shop was definitely the hardest part. I didn’t have a strong clientele base and had to build from the ground up. It caused doubts and was nervewracking at first!. ✕

the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? With the introduction of new AI technology, I believe that the art of tattooing will

continue to evolve and reach new heights of creativity and innovation

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? Many people assume that those who get tattoos are all rebels or outlaws, but that’s far from the truth. In reality, people from all walks of life and backgrounds choose to get tattooed for various reasons, such as self-expression, cultural heritage, commemoration, or simply aesthetics. As a professional tattoo artist, I strive to educate my clients and the public about the art and science of tattooing, as well as the diversity and creativity of the community

What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with One of the most rewarding aspects of tattooing for me is the opportunity to connect with people on a deeper level. Every client has a unique story to tell, and by listening to them and understanding their motivations and emotions, I can create a design that not only looks great but also reflects their personality and identity. It’s a privilege to be able to help someone express themselves through art and leave a lasting impression on their skin and soul. ✕

@oz_inkz_stuntz Instagram

OZ

My name is Hosni, but I go by OZ. I’m an aspiring Lebanese/ American tattoo artist located in Dallas, TX. I discovered my passion for tattooing a few years ago and it was a defining moment in my life. I’ve always been into art and drawing since my childhood, and a few of my close people around me kept suggesting that I should get into tattooing until I finally did. I have to admit I’ve never been more passionate about anything like I am about my career. I love art, and I challenge myself to learn and grow daily.

Artist

I also worked in the service industry before tattooing, so creating a unique experience catered to each client’s individual needs is of the utmost importance to me.

I specialize in fineline and black and grey tattoos. I strive to create unique, memorable experiences for my clients, and I’m humbled and blessed to leave them with forever beautiful art on their bodies. It’s honestly a privilege and I appreciate and value the trust you put in me.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

they pushed me towards pursuing this career.

Becoming a tattoo artist changed my life and I can’t imagine myself doing anything else after this.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I have to admit that becoming a tattoo apprentice isn’t as easy or simple as it sounds. It requires a lot of patience and sacrifice, especially in the beginning.

I was blessed to have met a mentor who saw value in me and decided to take a chance on me. He helped me set foot in the industry and believed in me at a time when I had so much self-doubt. If I’m being honest, I never thought I’d get this far. But I never gave up. And as I said before, it truly changed my life.

I’ve always been into art and drawing since my childhood. It was my peaceful place and my escape from life’s troubles. As I grew older, I became a fan and a collector of tattoos myself.

I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by people who always saw my potential even when I didn’t, and I’m grateful

You’re essentially working a lot of hours with close to zero pay for at least the 1st year or two. A lot of people can’t afford to do that. Life is tough and bills don’t wait on anyone.

Aside from that, you have to find the right shop/ mentor that would be a good fit for what you’re working towards. That’s also not easy. The tattoo industry has grown exponentially in the past few years, and a lot of people are trying to pursue that career. So it’s becoming more and more challenging because there’s a lot of competition.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of what I do is the unique experiences and memories I create with my clients. Their satisfaction and happiness are my fuel, and it keeps me going. I appreciate each and every one of them.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The experiences and memories I get to create and leave my clients with. The happy and satisfied reactions and facial expressions are everything to me. ✕

PAM SANDERS TATTOO Artist

I have been tattooing for six years and currently work at one of the best shops in Arizona, Old Town Ink. I am a mother of two, a wife, and a curious being. Respecting nature, creating art, and spreading positivity are important elements of life to me. Aside from doing normal life things like chill’n, camping, lake days, eating, or falling asleep watching movies, my world is tattooing.

I have been so lucky to have been welcomed into this industry. It has provided my family with a life I never imagined. I have never felt more grateful to be here at this moment in time. Tattooing has given me purpose, and I can only hope that I find the right ways to give back

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I’ve made a lot of disappointing decisions in my family’s eyes, but I know they are proud of where I am now. Not everyone felt that this was going to be an actual career for me. It’s been nice to show them I can follow my dreams and my heart. My husband has been and always will be my number one supporter ⸺

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I really enjoy exchanging energy with the people who have waited months to work with me. I feel lucky to be their artist and to see our clients walk out of the shop as a new being, it is a really beautiful feeling to be a part of their journey in life, and they are a part of mine as well How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Inspiration comes and goes; it’s constantly changing. I think creating a network of phenomenal and diverse artists inspires me to do the best I can on a daily basis ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? This is the hardest part for me. I get over-involved with my work and the many aspects of it; it can and does take time away from my family, enjoying nature, and connecting with others. It’s something I have to put a lot of thought and energy into so that there remains a healthy balance. I would say this is the top complaint of my loved ones to remain present when my brain is stuck in the tattoo world. ✕

My name is Pasha; I’m 33 years old. I was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia. My family and I currently live in Istanbul.

I’ve been a tattoo artist for 10 years. I’ve been developing my style since the very beginning of my career. I’m trying to be different and recognizable. So far, I’ve had the opportunity to work in different cities in five countries. I love my work, am constantly inspired by something new, take part in tattoo festivals, and currently learning something new.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I came in for my second tattoo and realized what an awesome profession it is! There were so many cool tools, new smells, and old-school flash

PASHA TURBO Artist

sets on the walls. It’s a whole new world! Ever since then, it hasn’t let go of me.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Always choose the artist, not the studio. A specific person creates the tattoo. Study their work and meet them in person. The price will depend on the level of the tattoo artist and their demand. Whether they work in their private workshop or a large studio in the city center doesn’t matter.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Some people still, even after ten years, tell me that it’s time to stop messing

around and find a proper job. But I’ve already found everything I need.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I believe that the influence of artificial intelligence in all creative professions will continue to grow rapidly. It’s the perfect time to actively study and explore this field!

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry?

10 Years Tattooing Istanbul, Turkey Location Independent Artist Neo-Trad/Trad Specialization turbo.pavel @outlook.com @turbo.pavel Instagram

I think the biggest misconception is that all tattoo artists are the same. Take a closer look. We differ just as much as a dentist and a dermatologist, even though they are both doctors.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life?

Tattoos are intertwined with every aspect of my life. They permeate my entire social circle, and nearly all the accounts I follow on social media are tattoo artists or illustrators. As a result, it’s much more than just a job for me. It’s also a huge part of my personal life. ✕

Artist

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I don’t think it was that difficult for me. I had a lot of experience in drawing, so I only needed to master the technique of tattooing. I started getting tattoos on my legs; when friends saw my tattoos, they asked me to do it too; I was one of the first tattoo artists in the city where I was born. I quickly became popular in my city ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I think that in addition to drawing and tattooing, no matter how much you love it, you should have a hobby and switch to it; otherwise, you will burn out; I love fishing, I really love mechanics, repairing cars and motorcycles, and traveling, it inspires me, and I love getting back to tattoos ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Everyone probably has good and bad days, there were deceptions from partners in the tattoo business and not very friendly clients, but it’s just a life experience that you go through, and it makes you stronger; without difficulties, you do not appreciate what you have

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It’s very good to be able to share if you have some problems at home, you don’t need to carry them to work, or if you have problems at work, you don’t need to carry them home; family support is just as important, there are no secrets, just be able to share and devote time to everything not one thing ⸺ Do you teach tattoos to others? I created my own course, “proTattoo,” for beginner tattoo artists; this is a small book as an addition to my offline courses; the book turned out to be very informative and easy to read ⸺ You recently received the Tattoo Artist of the Year award in Kazakhstan; this is a very prestigious award. Yes, I was very happy and proud that I was awarded such a prestigious award in Kazakhstan; it is awarded to the best who have achieved great success in their activities and received recognition from people ⸺ What would you like to say to our readers? I want to wish everyone cool tattoos, good moods, and happiness. ✕

I was born and raised in the Bay Area, California. In my early professional life, I performed in many rigorous industries, such as construction, race-car driving, and bodybuilding. After dabbling in multiple ventures, I found my calling in tattooing. Becoming a young prodigy, studying under world-renowned artists. I’ve been spending the last few years traveling the world, collecting numerous awards for my artwork.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I don’t think I’ve had bad experiences as an artist, just a few scary moments when clients aren’t properly hydrated or don’t eat before a session. As a client, you must properly hydrate and eat before your session, or you run the risk of passing out.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The most important advice I can give someone new to tattooing is to be your authentic self. Also, take pride in the work that you do. People can tell where your passion lies.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? The tattoo industry is growing and evolving at a rapid rate. There are so many artists that are bursting into the scene and becoming very good, very fast, with the help of technology. I plan to continue on the path that I’m on, creating relationships with other artists, brands, and companies in the industry.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? My favorite part of tattooing is shading and learning how to create more complex and smooth pieces of art.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My last one.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I stay motivated and inspired as an artist by surrounding myself with talented, kind, and genuine people.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Finding balance is still something I’m working on in the midst of all the organized chaos that comes with being an artist. I tend to work a lot, but I feel that drowning myself in my art has allowed me to reach levels that may seem unrealistic in a short amount of time. ✕

ROBERT STANTEISKI Artist

My name’s Robert Stanteiski. I have been tattooing for a little over 20 years, the hard way. I was one of those kids who watched my dad get tattooed and started making homemade tattooing machines. Never really used them, though, just more kind of seeing if they would work. After acquiring some real tattoo machines from my father’s artist, along with some handwritten notes and the importance of sanitation and making magnums, my dad stuck his leg out and had me tattoo this little black lizard on his ankle after a trip he made to get tattooed. I really had no idea what I was doing, but he sat there and took it, bleeding the whole way ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Really it was always watching my dad get tattooed, going into the tattoo stores, and seeing how the process was. I’m 50 years old now, so that was a long time ago ⸺What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? As a collector,

I would say explore your options and decide which way you want to go about getting tattooed. As an artist, I would say... don’t be a lawyer ⸺ How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? Seriously where can’t it keep going? It’s changed so much over the years; so fast that it blows me away. These artists are taking this thing to a whole new level and so many different ways. You just try to suck up as much of it as you can ⸺ Did you download a speech-totext app to complete this questionnaire? Why yes, I did because it would have taken me three weeks to type all of this. I still draw on paper ⸺ If you had to thank one person for being Where You Are today, who would it be? My dad and that stupid little black lizard, I guess How does it feel when you get tattooed today? It hurts, it hurts really bad I don’t know what happened, but it hurts now. ✕

I am Rooster Quade

Tracht: The Rowdy Rooster. I am a co-owner of Banner and Bone out of New Bedford, MA. Husband, father, veteran, nerd; I got into the tattoo industry after leaving the military in 2019. I moved to the East Coast from Oklahoma.

I found myself in an apprenticeship and was able to learn from everyone around me.

A year and a half in, I decided to pick up color work and was pretty aggressive, taking on large pieces and projects that were over my head. I kept with it and now specialize in full-color, large-scale custom work, specifically neo-traditional.

I left my first shop right at my two-year mark and spent some time traveling, where I did a series of guest spots and conventions on my own. I learned more in those few months of traveling than I did in the first two years of my career. I saw what the tattoo industry had to offer: kind, genuine people who truly care about their craft.

I took what I learned and decided to open up my own shop with my best friend, Nicole Coogan. We now have a stunning shop that provides quality work as well as a safe space for all clients. I owe all of my success to my friends, family, and clientele. I aspire to be one of the best and gain a reputation that allows me to explore my interests as an artist while making a living. I look forward to making new friends and learning from all the fantastic artists that I continue to meet. STAY ROWDY!!!

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I gain a lot of my inspiration from color artists all around, but hands down, the biggest influence on my work is Andrey Vasilyev1 and the Powerline Tattoo Shop as a whole. I am lucky enough to call him a good friend too.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Research your artists. Trust them but don’t be afraid to advocate for what you want. A good artist will take that into account and guide you appropriately.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? It was natural for me to take the leap to become a tattoo artist. I felt pretty supported by my friends and family. Everyone is in my corner and really rooting for me, and I don’t have time for anyone that isn’t. ✕

Artist

ROOSTER TRACHT

Ex-Navy, four years. Been professionally tattooing since 2020. I also have a five-year-old son named Hyde Hollis ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? After four years in the military, I wanted something that was more of a free lifestyle. I loved getting tattoos, and I loved drawing ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?

At first, nobody was supportive; everyone wanted me to get a job that fit my military background. But after I started making good progress and showed how I loved it, everyone was extremely supportive What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The creative freedom. Sometimes, I’m mind-blown that I get paid after I get to enjoy my whole day tattooing ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t do private areas and don’t do cover-ups ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Once, I drew a tattoo eight times before they finally decided that the first one that I drew was what they wanted. I’ve since then learned how to explain why it will look bad to

RYAN HOLLIS Artist

switch certain things up What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry?

That we do this on the side as a hobby ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing? The freedom Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I don’t really have a favorite, but the ones that I do like the most are the ones where my client tells me what direction and then lets me put it all together in my style

⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I remember how many jobs I had that I didn’t like. And I realize how lucky I am to have this job Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Getting into tattooing costs quite a bit while you make no money. So, just the getting started part is very challenging How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life?

Family first, job second, fun third, then everything else ⸺ What do you hope to be like in five years? Booked out for the year with fullday tattoos of black and grey realism. ✕

My name is Savanna Savage, a 14-year experienced artist from the Bronx. Starting my career in 2009, I started my apprenticeship in a shop called Asylum with an artist called Brooklyn. There, I learned the ways of the tattoo culture, sharpening my lines through tracing designs, learning how to be sanitary, and making sure to explain protocols for clients to understand the process of a tattoo. During those months, eventually, I left and learned from other artists to pursue a full-time career with Tattoo Kingdom. There, with David Styles, we work together to provide amazing tattoo and piercing experiences to many people from all the boroughs.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? My favorite tattoo that I did in my career was a cover-up of a giant name. I covered it with a female wearing a tiger headdress, and it took a total of 12 hours.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I stay a motivated artist by writing down all the

14 Years

Tattooing Bronx, NY

Location

Independent Artist

Color/B&G Specialization

thesavagemermaid669 @gmail.com

@the_savage_mermaid Instagram

ideas that come to mind, and when I have time, I pick them out of a hat like a game and draw. Another way is every other month, I would throw flash sales designs people have never done yet.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Of the majority of obstacles I’ve faced as a tattoo artist, the worst still to this day is male chauvinism. Even with clients, some people never believe I’m a tattoo artist because I’m a girl; they’ll walk right past me because they feel I’m a secretary.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I have a decent balance with my personal and tattoo life because I live with it. My husband is the owner of the shop I work in, so my personal life is always with me. We’re a great tag team and look forward to helping people all over the world in art culture.

Is there an artist you wish you could collaborate with? I would love to work with Ryan Ashley, Nikko Hurtado, and Paul Booth.

If there was any celebrity you could tattoo, who would it be? The celebrity I would love to tattoo is Malakai Black from AEW wrestling.

What style would you like to be known for? I would love to be known for my character cupcakes. ✕

Artist

I was born and raised in Uvalde, TX, and now reside in San Antonio, TX. I work full-time at Golden Rose Tattoo and travel frequently for tattoo conventions all around the country. I love my craft and am humbled that I’m able to be as successful in this industry. I want to thank all my clients and supporters for always supporting me all these years! ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Growing up, my father would make frequent visits to tattoo shops around San Antonio. As I was waiting around in the lobby, I would go through the portfolios and look at the art on the walls. I was immediately hooked! I had always been artistic, but those experiences drew me closer to making tattoo-like art ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? In my hometown, there was only one shop. I had put a portfolio together and showed it to the owner of the establishment, and he said they weren’t taking apprentices. I remember watching a documentary on Freddy Corbin saying to get tattooed, get to know the guys and be comfortable. With a whole sleeve and the entire front of my body tattooed, I finally asked again for an apprenticeship and got the big YES I was hoping for ⸺

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? When the client is checking out their fresh tattoo after being done, they cannot help but tell you over and over how much they love it. It’s a great feeling to know your time and energy is appreciated What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Take the bullshit and keep learning. Surround yourself with people you are comfortable with and want to learn from. Make sure they do the style you want to master in order to learn the correct way. Be open, and don’t act as if you know everything! ⸺ How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I’m already seeing people use AI generators for tattoo reference, which is crazy to me! I get that it saves time and all, but at the end of the day, you want something classic that your artists came up with themselves. The only adaptation I can see myself making is the wireless machines that are now taking over the industry. I use a lot of coils, and over time, it’s hard on the hands. So I can definitely see a change in machines in time. ✕

My name is Selena Perez-Francis. I am 27 years old and the mother of one beautiful daughter. I am also a licensed cosmetologist by trade and also used to teach cosmetology.

I’ve been in the tattooing industry for two years now, and I couldn’t be more honored for the opportunities that have come my way.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Meeting new people. I love getting people in my chair, and they’re like friends I’ve known forever. Making a lasting impact on someone fills my heart with purpose.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) If it’s not in my wheelhouse of expertise, I will pass it along. That’s pretty much it!

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Of course, don’t we all at one point? I was still an apprentice, and I did a chest piece that could have been better; I used to have a hard time gauging my depth. I went a little hard with the lines, and it didn’t heal well at all. I was very disappointed with the outcome.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I see different kinds of people going far now. This world is getting far more inclusive and understanding to people from different walks of life, and I feel like women are in more demand

going forward. It’s nice to know that acceptance is changing and people are actually being given chances now. I plan to stick true to myself and keep doing what I’m doing. Sometimes, tattoos are like clothing trends. You adapt designs to what’s trending now, and that’s how you stay relevant.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I have a family that needs me behind the scenes. I don’t let my job be my life. I turn my phone down once I’m home, and then I’m just a mom. And it’s taken me a while to put boundaries up with my time. But I’m also lucky to be in a shop that lets me have the schedule that works for me and my family. I’m very blessed where I’m at. ✕

I’m 24 years old and grew up in Rhode Island, where I attended catholic school and homeschooling, always succeeding artistically and never fitting in with the crowd. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been doing anything artistic. I have a giant dog, four ducks, and 10 chickens. When I’m not tattooing or drawing, I love going to the gym, road trips, and jumping into mosh pits ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? When I was little, I would draw on my mom’s back when she had sunburns and make her guess what I was drawing. I don’t really think I *knew* because I was so young, but it makes sense now. I remember asking her about tattoo artists when I was around six ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I looked for an apprenticeship for over a year when I was 18, working two jobs; in a restaurant and at my mom’s event company. On my off days, I walked into shops with my portfolio. I met my mentor, James Grizzo, and I pretty much harassed him until he called me late one night, joking, “So, are you ever going to come to

SHAYTATTOOS Artist

work?” Jamie and I instantly clicked, but other than that, my apprenticeship was dark. I was the only girl in the shop and faced a lot of misogyny from the other artists. Two years later, Jamie moved, and it broke my heart. I moved out of that shop six months later and jumped shops until my coworker and friend, Drew Maynard, decided to open 9 Lives. I quickly took the leap and never looked back ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? My biggest challenge is equality and respect in an industry that was once ruled by “big biker men.” I’ve met so many kind men who are unbelievably talented and great to work alongside, and I’ve met a lot of awful, entitled men with giant egos, who gatekeep, talk down to/put their hands on women. I’ve found out I was making less as a fully licensed artist than a male apprentice in the same shop. I’ve had clipboards thrown at my head. I hear so many disgusting stories from female clients about their past tattoo appointments. The list goes on. ✕

I’m a female tattoo artist and body piercer. I’m currently a tattoo artist in Grand Rapids, MI. I’ve been piercing for almost three years and have been tattooing for close to two years now. I specialize in anime/ cartoon style with full color and a kawaii/ creepy twist. My main goal is to empower my clients to love their bodies more and to help people who suffer from body dysmorphia or anxiety by providing a safe, comfortable, and judgment-free zone.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Seeing my client’s reactions to their new piercing or tattoo. Watching how it changes their life and makes their confidence grow. It’s why I do what I do!

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I’ve refused to tattoo men’s penises, but only because they weren’t serious and acted grossly about it.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry?

That everyone is big and bad and tough, and you have to be to get a tattoo or piercing. Get the tattoo, sis; you can still be cute and dainty with a Cerberus backpiece.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

The clients that I meet, hearing their stories and connecting with them. I love meeting new people, and tattooing anime and cartoons means I get to talk about them with other fans!

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? My biggest obstacle was myself, beating myself up when I did a tattoo, and one line stuck out to me. I learned a lot about selfforgiveness tattooing.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I remind myself I’m allowed personal time when I’m home and that my tattoos will be better if I give myself time to rest, mentally and physically.

How do you handle an anxious client? I talk to them about their anxieties, explain what I’m doing, and make sure they know we can stop at any time. I also do deep breathing exercises to help release anxiety.

Is there anything you dislike? Rudeness.

Did you ever think you’d be a tattoo artist? Not at all. I went to college and got an art degree because I had no idea what I wanted to do and thought I’d be doing concept animation. ✕

SOGDIANA Artist

Tattoo artist born in Uzbekistan; love art and the aesthetic of the human body. I am a huge animal lover, having two cats and two dogs; I have my cat tattooed on me; they all migrated with me from Uzbekistan. I am a foodie and will get dramatic really soon if I’m hungry. I love traveling and trying to experience new places frequently. I am lucky enough to love what I’m doing What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I always liked to draw; I’ve been through many random jobs. It was a matter of finding something that I enjoyed doing and making a living Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? When I moved to the US and was doing another random job, I decided that I could do better than that. I just got my sketches and walked into a few tattoo shops in the town I lived in. Two of them rejected me; the third one said that I should look no further and schedule a time to talk, and that was how I got an apprenticeship. It was a really regular traditional, I’ll say “old school”, apprenticeship with all aspects of it ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? From everything, my friends, nature, and any random person I

met or talked to. But of course, I frequently visit museums; other artists inspire me a lot. I have amazing and super-talented coworkers as well; it is amazing to see other driven humans What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Too many parts are cool, honestly. And every day, little things make me happy. I do beautiful things on a daily basis and make people love themselves more. It’s joyful How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Museums, history (I just love it, those stories inspire me), and other tattooers. It is inspiring to see what amazing things other people can do.

Getting tattooed by my favorite artist is a very inspiring moment; seeing someone so great, a real human just like you ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Probably the first couple of years, it was hard to stay motivated as I didn’t really have clients. It was especially hard to start, as I was in a new area, which meant no friends would let me practice on them, and the tattoo shop I started at was very slow, close to zero human traffic. ✕

SONG 136

7 Years

Tattooing

Los Angeles, CA

Location Independent Artist

Oriental/Realism Specialization tattooer136 @gmail.com

@tattooist_136

Instagram

Artist

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Match tattoo. Don’t do it, please. Sometimes I did for a couple. But I whisper to the client, is it really what you want, or are you doing under pressure?

If it is done under pressure, I tattoo so that the ink is faded. It’s a secret kept from the other person.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Relationship with a good teacher. Upgradable environment. No worries, be happy.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I enjoy talking with clients about art. Some clients are interested in art. When we talk about it, the tattoo is always finished before we know it.

What is your tattoo philosophy? I divided the study of tattoos into two directions, the first being the form of tattoo art. Tattoo is not the art of painting on a flat surface, nor is it a type of sculpture that creates new forms. It is to draw a continuous pictures on a continuous plane of paper. Therefore, tattoos can be thought of as a different form of art than architecture, sculpture, and painting. The second is an examination of art history and tattoo style that has a deep relationship with general history. Neotradental tattoos influenced by Art Nouveau and Art Deco, irezumi influenced by Ukiyoe, and traditional, which began to be developed by international relations after the American War of Independence (the United States and Europe are also influenced by the atmosphere of each continent).

The third is the purpose of tattoos, which are said to have been tattooed since 4000 B.C. In ancient times, different purposes (war prisoners, punishment, class, qualification, and decoration) were performed around the world. Tattoos have been practiced since the beginning of mankind and have been practiced for various purposes. In the present era, most tattoos are done in the sense of decoration, wishful thinking, and memory. In other words, tattoo is a commercial art with a client, but it is deeply related to pure art and human history. With these considerations, I was able to find myself justified as a tattoo artist. My tattoo philosophy is to do tattoo art that fits the current era and do the right tattoo art that the current era is aiming for. ✕

SUNNY MA

My name is Sunny, and I used to program software before I decided to become a tattoo artist. I was at the end of my Ph.D. program in computer science when I found my teacher Master Jess Yen and his shop, My Tattoo. Under his guidance, I have found a sense of self-discipline and drive for excellence that no years of schooling could ever teach me Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? The apprenticeship was not difficult to get, but it became clear to me as to why not many passed. My apprenticeship was three years long (four years if you’re counting the pandemic), and even within the first few years, I saw at least 40 people come and go. This was my only apprenticeship, and they had made it very clear at the beginning that they were not training apprentices just to learn how to tattoo but to embody the lifestyle of Horiyenichimon. I would say that my training was more focused on mentality than skills. Through my apprenticeship, I learned more about self-discipline, integrity, respect, and humility. I would see prospective apprentices come in and not be ready to learn any of those things, and that’s why they would leave ⸺

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I was always the artistic one in my family, so if anything, they were more surprised about me choosing to go into computer programming rather than art. She probably didn’t want it to be tattooing, but my mom always supported me to become an artist. My extended family has become more supportive of tattoo culture just from seeing me become a tattoo artist ⸺ How has your past education affected your approach to your tattoo journey? Being a female Asian American, you face a lot of pushback and preconceptions in the world of tech and academia. Because of that friction, I had to learn how to stand my ground and take up space, but when I came to Master Jess and Horiyenichimon, I had to learn humility and respect in a way I was not used to. Everything was steeped in tradition and structure, and while a computer science Ph.D. can condition you to hard work, long hours, and repetition, it doesn’t necessarily prep you for rules and structure and respect for the craft and needs of others over your own. ✕

“Horikiyo”

My name is Mason Atterbury. I have been a tattoo artist for around two years. I originally worked at Riverwest Tattoo Company, but now I work at our new shop, Elysium Tattoo MKE. I got into art when I was five. I used to make homemade comics, which were six to ten pieces of paper stapled together.

During middle school and high school, I would sell my art to students to save up for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), which started my passion for working with people. It wasn’t until my third year of college that I started seeking tattoo apprenticeships.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That it is easy and relaxing all the time, that’s why it’s also considered a lifestyle by many artists.

A lot of my daily life is centered on tattooing. But that was my goal years ago. I always fantasized about being this involved in my artwork.

2 Years

Tattooing Milwaukee, WI Location Independent Artist

Blackwork/Dotwork Specialization

masonatterbury @yahoo.com

@tattedtrout Instagram

Artist

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? Stability was my biggest one so far. After I dropped out of school, I was left to my own devices, so in order to live in Milwaukee, I was pumping out flash, learning as much as I could, and not taking breaks.

It was rough, but I’ve had to make similar decisions like this, so I knew nothing was going to stop me deep down. It wasn’t until I graduated my apprenticeship that I found stability. I think things started to settle once I graduated from my apprenticeship.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It is hard to manage at times. I try to ride the wave of chaos if things get a bit chaotic. Again, it takes up a lot of my life, so I am learning how to balance it more.

I’m very grateful that my family and friends live an hour away from me. I try to see and talk to them as much as possible. Time is precious, so every moment counts.

Are there any other art mediums you enjoy doing? Any future projects? I still want to publish a graphic novel as well as a tattoo flash book.

I would also love to collaborate with more artists! The tattoo industry has changed in the last few years.

Seeing artists connect and collaborate is amazing to see. ✕

TATTED TROUT

26 years old. Private studio. Self-taught artist. Samoan-poly/ Latina ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My dad actually wanted to be a tattoo artist when he was younger. He has tattooed my uncles; he has recently given me some of his old patterns. He put me onto artists like Jose Lopez; who is one of my inspirations as well. Seeing my dad heavily tattooed at a young age inspired me to get tattoos as well. My parents had us at a young age, so seeing them overcome the challenges of being young parents together was an inspiration to me ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Research your tattoo artist. Go to a professional, and spend/save for the artist’s work that you like. See healed photos; there are so many talented artists out there. Nobody has an excuse for getting a bad tattoo. Lastly, I would say aftercare for your tattoo is important! ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? When I told my family, I remember it was at my grandma’s house. My uncle’s response was, “I’ll be your canvas! “ I’ve gone on to tattoo my uncles, aunts, cousins, and many family members. Luckily the major-

TATTOO SABRINA Artist

ity of my family and friends were really supportive early on What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Being part of so many people’s lives through my artwork. From everyone between 18 to 50 years old, I’ve tattooed. So many different people that I’ve sat down with and heard their stories and what they were going through at the time. It really is tattoo therapy. To be able to be part of these moments every day is fun. From very meaningful tattoos or just fun, funny tattoos, every day is new, which I love ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I’ve had a few, from a client almost passing out to being drunk to being super picky. But in my five to six years of tattooing, the positive experiences with clients outnumber the bad. I would say 90% are positive experiences with my clients. I believe it’s all about how you handle situations as well ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t give up! Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do. Also, remember that you are your own boss and a business person. Continue to grind, keep creating, and have fun with it!. ✕

I was into drugs and getting in trouble from a young age. Around the time I got clean and sober, I decided to pick up tattooing as a hobby to keep myself busy. It turned out to be the best thing that happened in my life and for my sobriety. I met my fiancée, the mother of my child, through tattooing and have met many great people along the way. I hope to keep pursuing this for the rest of my life and never stop learning.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Various artists inspire me to keep pushing myself to new limits. There are so many great artists, and it’s hard to name them all. I tend to lean toward more dark-style black and grey realism or new-school Japanese.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Getting to take a client’s idea and putting my own twist on it. I feel like it’s not only their tattoo but kind of like it’s mine as well.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) If I knew that the tattoo idea was something that wouldn’t turn out well, or if they wanted to copy something directly off of Pinterest, I would decline.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Keep pushing yourself to do better. Sometimes being your own worst critic is the fastest way to learn and improve.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I get inspired when I get requests for projects that allow me to have creative freedom or anything with a theme I enjoy.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I feel like I was stuck at one point, feeling like I wasn’t evolving fast enough. Now that I look back, I can finally see how far I’ve come.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life?

I work 6 days a week with long hours. It’s hard to have an equal work/life balance, but I’m lucky I have a job I love and a solid woman at home taking care of me and my kids. ✕

THAD CURRY Artist

I’m Thad Curry, the owner of Toye Shop Ink Tattoos in Lexington, South Carolina! I am both a color and black and grey artist, but I really love color work. Although tattooing is fun to me, I take it very seriously, and I strive to give my clients the cleanest tattoos that I can. I also strive to put South Carolina on the map as a “Tattoo” state; right now, it feels like SC is constantly forgotten about when people think of areas with amazing tattoo artists; I’m here to change that! ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of tattooing is the process! Watching one of my pieces come to life on someone’s skin is so satisfying. There are times when I shock myself during the process and create something better than I imagined it! Then seeing my client’s face in amazement when I’m done is priceless What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The most important advice I can give someone new

to the art of tattooing is to practice, practice, practice until you can’t get it wrong, be open to constructive criticism from those better than you, and don’t be an arrogant ass whole! Also, understand that there is no “one way” to tattoo anything. Everyone has their own preferred methods, but there are tons of ways to get the same effects in a tattoo

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? I love the fact that tattooing allows my mind to rest and only focus on one thing for a few hours. While focusing on a tattoo, I’m able to work through other things that may be going on in my life How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? Some days it can be hard to stay inspired or motivated as an artist. I like to take myself away from tattooing and art together for a few days. Sometimes I’ll play games with my kids or help my wife out with her clothing boutique. Doing things that take me away from art allows my mind to refocus, recenter and recharge. ✕

My name is Daniel James Williams. I go by The Maverick when tattooing. I’m 36, and I did my first tattoo when I was 16.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I’ve always been an artist; I was left a box of comics by my Dad when my Mom and Dad were divorced. I would spend my days trying to draw all the characters.

I was the kid coming home covered in sharpy marker when I was like 10, getting yelled at by my mom. I always knew I wanted to do tattoos.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I suppose I get my inspiration from anyone who says I can’t do something. That’s always been my biggest inspiration and motivation in life. But I mean, as far as art goes, I get inspiration from my father; although he wasn’t really around as much as I’d have liked growing up, he’s a fantastic artist, and I really just wanted to do something he’d be proud of. I get inspiration from my mother, who always was my biggest advocate in life, even when I was dead ass wrong, and I want to make her know that the crazy ass kid she raised who was never at school or getting picked up by the police turned out ok. Ya know?

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?

I’m pretty sure everyone expected it. The people close to me anyway. But yeah, they think it’s cool; what’s cooler than being a tattoo artist?

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done?

Don’t really have a favorite tattoo; I’ve got a favorite type of tattoo, though. Memorial pieces. I’m always honored when I’m asked to do something for someone who has lost a loved one. Those are the most meaningful tattoos.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist?

I stay motivated by remembering every day what it took to get here, what I was doing before, and knowing that I beat the odds. That keeps me inspired. Having a trade to teach my kids, who I know are just as nuts as I was, is motivation. ✕

(Daniel James)

Artist

My favorite food is milksteak. My favorite hobby is magnets. I like ghouls, preferably little green ones. And I dislike knees; I would prefer them covered ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? It was the gateway to the devil! But I think they got over it; it’s a lot more accepted now than when I started. My friends I met at work were stuck with me, but they got free tattoos, and I’m only really annoying when I sing careless whispers ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Oh yeah, I feel like, being a girl, you get quite a lot, so I’ll stick to a funny one. I tattooed a man who just happened to be my science teacher. He didn’t recognize me, but I called him out on skipping school just like I was. I’m too old for detention now, so I can tell on him ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Be committed. It’s a ton of work but worth it if you love it. Try to have a balance of tattooing and life outside that. It can get overwhelming at times, and I see a lot of people needing to take breaks from

TIARA GORDON

social media. It’s a great way to get your work out there, but don’t let how many likes you get on a tattoo take over your love of the art. And always keep pushing yourself; you can always get better no matter how long you’ve been doing it ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I’ve moved around a lot, so it’s always hard staring over trying to find your forever place has been hard for me. Finding the right work environment is also important to me. Every shop has been different over the years, and I like a good space that lets me focus on doing the best tattoos I can while being surrounded by people I can learn from who push me to be as good as they are How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? What is a personal life? I’ve always loved tattooing, so I have thrown myself into it to be all life-consuming so I can get better. I do go fishing sometimes, but that is my other happy place, which is why I moved to Florida cause once you catch a shark, there is nothing better. ✕

My name is Tiffany, I’m 34 years old, and I am a tattoo artist on the Space Coast of Florida.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I am self-taught. Let me say I would not recommend doing it that way to anyone. Being selftaught definitely made it a LOT harder, but ultimately it worked for me. That’s not to say I never had any formal training, though. I actually started out as a cosmetic tattoo artist. After about five years or so of that, I realized I needed more. I still had that itch that I hadn’t scratched. I drew and practiced my a** off and studied the art like an obsessed psycho before finally going for it on my angel of a husband and really close friends. Once they all healed great, there was no stopping me. It was love at first poke. If I had to do it all over again, I would’ve started this thing with a traditional apprenticeship 10 years ago!

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? At this point in my career, it’s usually all about my clients’ ideas. I know a lot of artists don’t love Pinterest, but I actually love getting pinned inspo pics from my clients and creating something completely new from it to compliment their own body and life, with a little girly spin on it from me! It’s like my own little personal challenge to make a design that’s 10x better than the one that was brought to me.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I have five kids and a husband at home, so figuring out how to give them all of my love while also running my business can get really hard. I’ve found that giving myself a daily schedule for work, designing, contacting clients, family time, etc., helps dramatically. I just have to stick to it!

What do you like to tattoo, and what would you like to do more of? I love anything floral and glitter style, and I also love lady faces. I’d love to do more of all of those in literally any style!

How do you describe your work? Slightly girly. Not overly bubbly, but feminine.

What do you do when you aren’t tattooing? My kids keep me busy! Other than hanging with them, I truly spend a LOT of time practicing. I want to be better every day. It takes a lot of time and hard work, and I am willing to give it that. I have the best job in the world and will treat it like so!. ✕

2 Years

Tattooing

Titusville, FL Location Independent Artist

All Things Girly/ Floral Specialization

inkedprettyy @yahoo.com

@tiffanyinkss Instagram

ZACH ABSHER Artist

Zach Absher; husband, father, tattoo artist. I am always drawing inspiration from nature and the beauty that surrounds me. I graduated from USI with a bachelor’s degree in Advertising and Public Relations. I then worked in customer service at Bear Archery for 10 years. Following this, I decided to take the plunge and join the family tattoo business in the fall of 2019 as a second job. By the spring of 2021, I had transferred to full-time tattooing. I currently work with my brother in an appointment-only based shop in Evansville, IN, called The Dead Yeti Tattoo Studio. I specialize in fine-line, realism-style tattoos that are nature/floral/whimsical themed ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? As most early artists would agree, I would say I have a few that are “cringe-worthy.” One that particularly stands out is the outline of a superhero I did about a month into my career. It was something that seemed so simple at the time, but about five minutes in, I realized I bit off more than I could chew. As I have progressed, there is very rarely a piece I tattoo that I am not proud of. Of

course, I am always looking at other artists that I admire and comparing my work to theirs. I feel that holds me to a higher standard for each tattoo I do, keeping me motivated to always do better ⸺ How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I believe the art of tattooing will remain the same, but the trends tend to change over time. Staying educated on current trends and techniques will help keep my style relevant and evolving. I will always strive to add “my spin” to the art I do to keep it unique and different from most tattoos you see ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I am currently married and have three young children. Setting limitations on work time is imperative. Family is my #1 priority. I have set times for answering emails and inquiries. I also do not work weekends as this is the time my wife and children are home ⸺ What tattoo artists inspire you? Tritoan LY, Dzo Lamka, and Hettie Baker are some of my favorites. ✕

Welcome to the imaginative world of Timothy B. Boor. Whether on skin, paper, or canvas, the creative juxtapositions that Timothy surrounds himself with blend surrealistic designs with realistic elements while intertwining symbolism and parables with his colorful blends.

He grew up mesmerized by painting shows on television and luckily had an intuitive mom who saw his talent early on and got him started taking oil painting classes at the young age of ten. Once he was introduced to the work of Renaissance and Baroque masters, there was no turning back in his desire to learn more; soon thereafter, finding the Surrealistic movement caused Tim to delve into art like never before.

Though Timothy has only been tattooing since 2007, his work speaks for itself, and his portfolio reads like a seasoned pro. When it comes to tattoo work, Timothy loves the concept-driven pieces that are presented to him, especially when a client provides an emotional or meaningful story and lets him visually interpret the idea onto his skin. A fan of using symbolism, metaphors, and analogies to convey meanings, Tim enjoys using his mind and likes to figure things out instead of having concepts spelled out for him.

Timothy has moved back to his hometown of Kokomo, Indiana, to open his own shop, The Bohemian Tattoo Club and Art Gallery–an upscale tattoo studio with fellow artists Matthew Davidson and his mentor Bradley Pearce. The shop, which also features a fine art gallery, is one that has to experience firsthand.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? The artist I apprenticed under, or actually both really cool and weren’t as hard on me as some of the stories you hear. I didn’t have to wash anyone’s car or be a complete minion. I had a fulltime job starting a new family, so I had to do the apprenticeship part-time. After about six months, my mentor moved away from town, and so I had to put it down for a few years. I ended up with an opportunity to finish my apprenticeship with an artist I work with now named Bradley Pearce, and I jumped on it! He finished my apprenticeship, and I worked there for around a year before having to step away for another year or two because my family was growing, and it was a lot to balance both things. In 2007, I got back into it and quit my job to commit to tattooing full-time, and I haven’t looked back. ✕

TIMOTHY BOOR Artist

16 Years Tattooing Kokomo, IN Location

Bohemian Tattoo Club Owner/Artist Realism/Surrealism Specialization

Artist

Okay, so my name is David A. Boone II, but people know me by Toon Boone because I’m a character. I’m currently 30, born and raised in Flint, MI, and in December, I’m celebrating my 13th year tattooing. I started back when I was only 17, tattooing wherever I could. As soon as I turned 18, I went to work at a local shop called Biggunz Tattoos, where I was fired but ended up back there a couple of times over the years. After a decade of tattooing in and out of local and out-of-state shops, I finally felt ready to open my own, and since I’m super well known for having a dagger on my face, Dagger face tattoos was the perfect name. Since then, I’ve brought up two super solid artists, Loco and Cain, and the three of us have been taking our city by storm ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? That we are all scum bags or worship the devil, don’t get me wrong, there are a lot that do, but the majority of us are

TOON BOONE

good people just trying to make it and feed our kids. And some of the nicest and most accepting people I know are in the industry ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? It’s hard to say, really. I have a new favorite tattoo almost every week. But this joker face I did a while back is definitely one piece I’m very proud of. I never get to do things like that in that style, so it stands out How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? My personal life comes 3rd; my career comes first and second to everything. Once in a while, I will take a day or two off and spend time with my family, but I’m always focused on my career ⸺ What would you change about the industry? And why? I’d definitely change the newly acceptable softness and entitlement of all these new artists coming into the game. They blame the industry for them being soft or not committed enough, and society is just accepting it. ✕

I’m Tony Maxwell from Dark Age Tattoo Fort Worth. I’ve been tattooing for a little over four years, and I specialize in watercolor.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve always loved art, but it always took a back seat to football. So, I never expected it to be what I’m known for. I got into tattooing because I was tired of the electrical job I had been doing for ten years. I wanted something new. Tattooing happened to be that new thing.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I didn’t have an apprenticeship. I’m self-taught. I’ve had multiple artists help me along the way, but not a traditional apprenticeship.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My main inspiration comes from nature and paintings. Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I plead the 5th; it wasn’t the worst thing, but it wasn’t fun either.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? I want to keep pushing the boundaries of what can be done and heal well. I don’t see the industry changing, but implementing new technologies and techniques to make our jobs easier in some ways.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I work four days a week; the other three days are for family. My wife is awesome and allows me to be able to fully put myself into tattooing on the four days I’m there. The three other days are for doing family things and connecting. It’s definitely a balance, but I feel it works for my situation.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I feel like I’m overlooked by other artists because of the stigma that’s attached to being a watercolor artist. My style isn’t the same as other watercolors, and I feel that I get dismissed when I say I do watercolor. I just try to keep my head down and allow my art to speak for me. I’m also a 6’2, 300-pound bearded man who tattoos flowers, so when I’m at conventions, people don’t believe it’s me when they see my portfolio. ✕

Artist

TRISTAN “86”

Hi! I’m a 25-year-old tattoo artist from Terre Haute, Indiana! I love anime art! When I’m not working on tattoo designs, I’m working on anime art for partners as well as discord channels in the anime community!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is when I’m actually doing a tattoo. Everything else going on in the world just melts away, and I get to block all of that out and enjoy creating a piece of art for the client that will last forever Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) For the most part, the only outright things I refuse are any designs that represent any form of hate speech, racism, or anything of the sort ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? The worst tattooing experience I’ve had was when I was tattooing a client, and she brought her aunt with her; her aunt kept talking about how she could never let me tattoo her because being that close to her would get her a little too excited and she wouldn’t be able to control

herself How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I stay inspired by seeing what other artists, both in the shop I’m in and on social media, are doing. Anytime I’m feeling uninspired, I’ll just see what everyone has been working on, and it really pushes me to keep going and do the best I can ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I would say some of the biggest challenges as a tattoo artist are time management and stress management; those two things can really make a tattoo artist’s life not very fun if you can’t keep those two things under control

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I try to make sure that every week I have a plan for the week with time set aside for each of my responsibilities and make sure it’s balanced out so that way I’m able to get things done and not feel more pressure than necessary as an artist but also not so much free time that I’m not taking time to improve and learn more. ✕

Tyler Cabrinha was born and raised in Hawaii and has been drawing for as long as he can remember. He was very blessed to have an incredibly artistic father who drew, among the many other talents he had. From the moment Tyler could understand and appreciate his father’s artwork, it inspired him to draw. From that time on, he would draw every day but always considered it to be just a hobby he grew to love from a very young age.

It wasn’t until his late teens that he realized he wanted something more from his art and how he could make a living at it. He got tattooed by a true artist and tattooer out of Kailua, Oahu Dodge Distad, which opened his eyes to a new opportunity to work with art. He spent hours getting tattooed by Dodge and getting a firsthand look at how sacred, amazing, and technical it was to be a custom tattoo artist. The obsession had been planted. Tyler struggled to work many different trades in between trying to find an apprenticeship. He would go on to acrylic painting and selling original paintings on the side while working different jobs full time. It wasn’t until he moved from Oahu to Kauai to live with his father and his wife that Tyler would finally meet his mentor Moon Lake. He was mentored by Moon at “Island Tattoo House of Mana Ink.” He then ended up moving back to Oahu to further his career at a new shop his friend Palani Fernandez was opening.

Tyler would go on to work beside and under many great shops and artists during the last 15 years of tattooing. He attributes his knowledge

in art and tattooing to the artists he has been so blessed to be inspired by and worked with.

Tyler is a versatile tattoo artist who prides himself in doing many different styles of tattoos. Tyler lives and breathes art and understands how important a good tattoo is and what it means to the client. “Without the client, I don’t have work. I strive to make the best tattoos every time, so I don’t have to worry about my chair being empty.”

What do you enjoy most about tattooing? You know, simply being able to create art for people and sustain a comfortable life for me and my family is definitely up there!

So do you do any conventions during the year? Yeah, I absolutely do; I always do my home show in Oahu, Hawaii, the Pacific Ink and Art Expo, amongst at least 4-5 other shows a year.

When did you open Hybiscus Tattoo and piercing? I opened in 2019 and just made 4 years In January. It has been my proudest accomplishment opening Hybiscus and working with the artists I’ve had in it since its creation!. ✕

15 Years

Tattooing

TYLER KERSTING

Born and raised in South Florida, I began tattooing at the young age of 17; 11 years later, I couldn’t picture my life any other way! What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Watching my parents get tattooed and accompanying them while the process was taking place really piqued my interest in the tattoo industry ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? At first, they thought it was gonna be a phase, but my family, especially my parents, has definitely been supportive the whole way through ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of tattooing has to be taking someone’s idea and adding my own twist to it. My goal is to always give them more than what they would expect ⸺ What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? They think that it’s all rock stars and knuckleheads; while this is far from the truth, it tends to be the biggest misconception in our industry ⸺ What do you enjoy most

about tattooing? The thing I enjoy most has to be the memories and people I get to meet on the journey. I’ve gained lifelong friends that I would otherwise not have even come across if it hadn’t been for the love we share for tattoos ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It’s very hard to separate business and personal life, but as an artist, that’s what you are signing up for. Long days and even longer nights it comes to a point where being an artist is all you know, and it can make you or break you ⸺ Do you own a studio? Yes! I actually just opened up my first shop, Parley Tattoo Co. We are located in Margate, FL ⸺ What other forms of art inspire your tattoo career? Painting has been the biggest backing to my tattoo career; as far as building techniques and understanding color theory, it has helped me tremendously What’s your next move as an artist? Honestly, I’m focused on growing my shop and hopefully opening up a sister shop by 2025! ✕ tattoosbytk

I was born in Russia and moved to Canada eight years ago. As a kid, I studied in an art school, but after high school, I suddenly decided to get a master’s in computer science (and I did). Still, I was always doing arts and crafts as my hobby. After getting my diploma, I was a stay-at-home mom for eight years, raising my three little girls. I started tattooing at the age of 31, and after a year of doing it on my own, I joined Sage Tattoo and Art Gallery, where I’ve been working ever since.

How do you see the tattooing industry evolving in the coming years, and how do you plan to stay relevant and adapt to those changes? The quality of tattoos has improved significantly during past years, and it’s going to improve even more. We should see more high-quality custom pieces in the coming years, and I’m committed to working hard on improving my skills.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing?

I love how tattoos can change a person’s attitude to their body.

Love seeing happy faces after covering up a scar or a hateful tattoo or just after getting a tattoo that compliments their body really nicely.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I’m setting goals and working on archiving them, giving my best every day, and spending my time with people who inspire me.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I didn’t really have any obstacles or challenges in my career as I found the right team for myself who are always supporting and inspiring me. A great working environment is really important, and I wouldn’t be where I am now without my team.

Do you only do freehand? I do freehand only, with the exception of script, which I do super rarely and only as an addition to the bigger pieces. I don’t draw any designs or sketches in advance; I start right on the skin with Sharpies. I see body parts as canvases and try to draw my design to fit those areas perfectly in terms of composition and body flow. My main goal is to compliment the body with my work, so a tattoo won’t look like a sticker but as a part of it. And I often hear from my clients that they feel like the tattoo was always there and doesn’t feel like something external. ✕

VERONIKA MINAEVA Artist

4 Years Tattooing

Ottawa, ONT Location

Independent Artist Freehand/ B&G Botanical Specialization

ink.will.triumph @gmail.com

@ink.will.triumph Instagram

YANDY TATTOO Artist

My name is Yannier Lopez; everyone knows me from Yandy Tattoo. I’m 31 years old, and I’m originally from Cuba. I started tattooing 12 years ago. I do all the styles, although I specialize in black and grey. I am located in Naples, Florida ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My greatest inspiration is my family, the goals that I have been able to fulfill, and knowing that I have fulfilled other people’s dreams through my art ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? I would advise you to be 100% sure of the design you want to make, the artist you decide to choose, and the place where you want to have it because the tattoo is something for life What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?

I thank God because, until today, all my family and friends have supported me What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part is when I can witness customer satisfaction after having captured my art ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would

refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) The soles of the feet ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Yes, once a client asked me to go to the bathroom, suddenly I heard a noise, and when I approached, I realized he had fainted ⸺

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? That they overcome each other every day, that they work with love, and that they never forget that we are art

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? One of the biggest challenges I have had to face was when I arrived in this country, and I had to start from scratch, learn new techniques, use different materials, make new customers, and look for a place where I could work ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I always try to focus on my priorities, both in my professional and personal life. I think the two are closely related since, together, they have made me who I am. ✕

ALL.THINGS.INK!

Hyperrealism’s popularity highlights a shift in client preferences. This change isn’t just a trend; it’s a movement. This evolution in taste points to a broader cultural shift, where tattoos are increasingly regarded as a form of high art and a medium for personal expression. The future of hyperrealistic tattooing is ripe for innovation. Advances in tattoo technology, like more precise inking tools and richer color palettes, are set to elevate the form. With a growing popularity, hyperrealism is likely to inspire a new wave of artists, further diversifying its presence in the tattoo world. This not only cements its place in the pantheon of popular tattoo styles but also heralds a new era in which tattoo artistry is recognized and appreciated for its technical skill and emotional depth. ✕

Jacob Danhi / @jacobdanhitattoos

naturesbeasttattoocare.com

info@naturesbeasttattoocare.com