Artistic Encounter Billyjack & Stephanie Gunter

I’m 25 years old, born and raised in California. I have been drawing and producing art, in general, my entire life. After having gone to college for a completely different career path, I figured before it was too late, I would take a chance on my passion. That was the best possible decision I could have made because it resulted in a career that I am genuinely passionate about.

Who/where do you get your inspiration from?

I feel that inspiration varies depending on the project. Sometimes I pull inspiration from other tattoo artists, and other times I pull inspiration from other forms of art.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first

tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Always do research on your artist. You want to make sure you are finding the right person for the tattoo that you want.

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

They were absolutely stoked. Having just completed education for emergency medical services and about to become a firefighter, they had their concerns as to if this was the right move, but they were all still extremely supportive.

What would you say is your favorite part of the

job? Everything about it. The freedom to produce artwork every day and the ability to make my own schedule, so I have the time to spend with my family.

What was it that initially sparked your inter-

est in tattooing? I grew up watching my parents getting tattooed and used to love going to different shops with them and seeing the artwork they had on the walls and flipping through the portfolios.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas,

etc.) I would probably just say no private parts. I think I could manage any other situation, but that just doesn’t seem like something I would be comfortable with.

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

Get an apprenticeship. It’s hard to get one, and it’s hard to get through one. But there is a purpose, and once you do get through one, it’s worth it. ✕

JOSHUA DAVIES

1 Year

Tattooing

Independent Artist

Upland, CA

Location

Breakthrough Tattoo

Shop

American traditional/ B&G

Specialization

jdaviestattoo

@hotmail.com