2 minute read
Interstate Ink Christopher “Church” Oppenheim
I have always had an interest in art. I wanted to study art at university, but I was not very diligent in my studies, but that did not prevent me from studying architectural drawing and then one year of art conservation and restoration. In 2007, bored with my studies and the poorly paid jobs I was getting, I decided to buy a tattoo kit. I remember it was a lot of fun because I didn’t have any tattoos; I just wanted to learn to tattoo, and the tattoo scene at that time was very closed, and nobody wanted to teach you.
What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin)
Advertisement
What I tell everyone on their first tattoo actually. have a clear idea of what they want and that the artist is the one. Hydrate and eat well before the appointment and avoid alcohol one day before and one day after the tattoo.
What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?
My mother was scared, she didn’t like them and wanted me to study a profession that would ensure my future, but over the years, she forgot, and now she feels proud; my father, brothers, and friends always supported me a lot.
What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?
I think I saw it as something different to do, very close to rock and roll in terms of freedom; I really don’t know, I just liked it, and my cousins had tattoos, and I liked how they looked.
Who and what influences you to
create your work? I think a big influencer for me was seeing Rembrandt’s work when I studied conservation and restoration. The darkness of his work caught my attention then, of course, I got to know the work of many other artists who I have great admiration for. I think the work of Robert Hernández is one of the tattoo artists that most influences what I like to do.
What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing?
I think that the most important thing in this art is the love and dedication and, of course, drawing, painting, and studying a lot before taking a tattoo machine. ✕
15 Years
tattooing
Independent Artist
Chicago, IL
Location
Chicago Ink Tattoo
Shop
Black & Grey
Specialization
claudio.tattoo.bng
@gmail.com
