ARE YOU THE
Tats by Vance
by Kris Kinville of Talkoforlando.com
hat’s up Orlando?! This week’s Talk of Orlando is artist elite among permanence in the world. “Tagging” people nationally, Vance Brown of TatsbyVance has made more than just an ordinary impression on our city. With colorful imagination and skill, he can make anyone’s desire to advertize their passion with Tattoo Art, some of the most impressive I have seen…and in Florida there’s definitely a wide range of examples to compare too.
I don’t know about other people but I have a waiting list.
Where do your creations come from? What is your inspiration?
Where/when did you become interested in tattoo art? I’ve done tats for about 15 years. I’ve always liked to draw, but I was exposed to “people as canvasses” watching my boys @ Big Dogs in Columbus OH. I was an apprentice and learned the art while cleaning around the shop. I was also the “flash or custom guy” at a lot of places. I actually learned the “art” of tattooing when I spent time overseas visiting my England family. I’ve also done men and women’s hair for 16yrs. I figured I could learn anything after that. I also have a graffiti background (shhhhhhhh).
What made you want to do tattoo art as a business? People in shops that are horrible, and actually making a living at this. The worst part is that they don’t understand the background, lifestyle, or passion for the art of tattoo. One day my brother came to me proud of his new lua loa tattoo. He showed me his arms and I was heated! That’s when I opened up my kit and started rebuilding.
Have you found business to be “booming” in Orlando with Tattoo Art? 8
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I see pictures in my head and create them. I see art in everything and everyday life. Tattooing is perfect for me because it’s a “hands on” art. I sit and meet with each person before creating their piece, an in depth consultation before each session. I get to know them and the image they want to have be a permanent part of their body & why. A client has to trust you to give them what they want. And as an artist I want my “living, breathing art” to be so impressive that each time the client looks in the mirror they say to themselves “that the shyt!” I want them to be proud to wear my art. With my graffiti background I find great pleasure in analyzing people & then “tagging” them! (Laughing)
What is the most intricate or most challenging piece you have done? I’m currently working on a space flower, Asian type piece. All the outlines are different colors and there’s mad dimension and color to the piece. It’s like arm tat in 3d.
How should a person prepare for getting a tattoo? Is there anything special they should do before their session? I actually prepare a person to get a tattoo that’s part of the process for me. First is the drawing, which usually comes from a concept or magazine. (I never