Temple Tattoo Studio Chris Nuno West

KEVIN BOUDREAU

I specialize in new school tattoos that consist of vibrant colors that look like 3D cartoon characters ⸺ What types of design do you enjoy most? I enjoy a lot of creative freedom in my style. This usually includes animals doing human activities, and possibly wearing clothes or having accessories ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? Please do your research; there are so many amazing artists out there. Also, save up and make the trip if an artist you like is not located near you; it’ll be worth it ⸺ What did

your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo

business? My friends and family have been very supportive of my work over the years. I’m sure every parent worries about their child saying they want to make a living doing art, but I’m pretty sure they’re proud of me for pursuing what I love and getting where I have ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Probably when I get to the white highlights ( not cause it’s so painful!) but because it’s those final touches that complete the artistic vision. I also enjoy getting to know my clients and hearing some of the crazy stories of their life that they share with me ⸺ Who and what influences you to create your work? Influences can come from everywhere on a daily basis. A movie, nature, or really anything could spark an idea for drawing that sometimes leads to a tattoo design. As for artists that I’m inspired by, there are too many to list. I love seeing all of the new school work out there. As for painters, I was very inspired by Salvador Dali growing up and later became a huge fan of Greg Craola Simkins ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Draw, then draw some more, and more, and more! Drawing is the foundation of the tattoo, and if your foundation looks like crap, so will the final product. This goes for you realism artists as well! If your stencil smudges or your reference has an area that doesn’t really translate well, you have to know how to fix that. ✕