Tattoo Industry Magazine: Issue 21 Baby Goth

After six years of chasing perfection to astonishing results (over 100,000 units sold) through private distribution, Nature’s Beast is ready to go public.

JAMIESON LEWIS

I created this convention from scratch. We are now on our way to our third season. We have a great team built. Our convention includes Tattoos, Arts, Fashion, Media, and Welding. We are kid friendly. Last season we saw over 6,000 guests. We expect 8,000 this season ⸺ So how did such a massive scale convention, showcasing talent from all over the world come to fruition here in Tampa Bay? “I traveled with Nelly, Snoop Dogg, Rod Wave, and more. Along the way I met a friend that’s a tattoo artist. She mentioned I should do a convention, and you know, I thought to myself—I love helping others see their vision, so a convention is perfect! I can now bring my creative ideas to life through talented people. I now have a vessel to help people, and at the end of the day, that’s my goal.” Who or where do you get your inspiration from? The art industry as a whole; all mediums, media, and platforms ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or

her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Think before you react ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Tattoos were frowned upon. My family hadn’t approved until they noticed my consistency ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I am able to wake up daily and do what I love. To network with artists and brainstorm ideas is a dream job! We create! ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My friend Samantha Vinski said I would be great at conventions. I listened, and she was right! She’s a tattoo artist from Fort Myers, FL ⸺ Who are your favorite artists? Drkturcotte, Steve Butcher, Mashkow, Levgen, Clayton Diaz, Im_Tattoo, and there’s a ton more! ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? More 3D flashes ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Be persistent, take advice, attend seminars, and always level up. ✕

TAMPA, FLORIDA, USA

/ LOCATION INFO GOES HERE

BEST IN SHOW

LUIS MORALES

Who/where do you get your inspiration from? I always liked tattoos, the way they look and flow on people’s skin and the creative part of designing something that a person carries for the rest of their lives. ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I would say it is when the client gets to see the final results, the expression on their faces, and the gratitude of being pleased with the outcome ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Well, I remember once I was trying to pour some blue ink into a cup and shook the bottle while it was open and splashed the client all over; he looked like a smurf ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I couldn’t tell you a specific tattoo; I guess I have one for each style I do, but I couldn’t remember. I can definitely tell you that as long as the client gives me the freedom to do the design my way, that certainly could be one of my favorites ⸺

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I think it is a personal thing; I always do my best to be better every day; being surrounded by extremely talented artists helps a lot; it inspires me ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I guess adapting to new technologies and resources could be one of them. Every day there are new products on the market, and we have to learn how to use them so we’re not staying behind ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? It is challenging sharing the time with my family, sometimes, I finish an 8 hours session and get to my home only to stay awake till 2 am designing on the iPad, but I guess it’s part of my work, so that’s another thing I’ve adapted ⸺ Is tattooing your dream job? It is. Actually, I don’t see it as a job. I see it as a lifestyle, something to be proud of ✕

SCUBA STEVE

This Industry has come a long way, and so have Scuba Steve. He had double C-Spine surgery, which left him paralyzed from the mid-chest down and was told he would never walk again, let alone tattoo ever again. Here he is, walking and tattooing!! He loves what he does, and absolutely loves all of my clients. Without them and their support, he wouldn’t be doing this. A super special shout out to his wife, Missy Myers, for being his Rock!! She is the best piercer in South Dakota ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I’m always inspired by Bob Tyrell, Marshall Benett, and, of course, DJ Tambe ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) I first talk them out of a neck, face, and hand tattoo (job killer), then I tell them, “Don’t worry about a thing; I got you” ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My friends thought it was awesome, and I’m pretty sure my Dad still thinks I’m nuts ⸺ What would you say is your favor-

ite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is when my client looks in the mirror at the final product and are absolutely amazed. It makes my heart happy ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve been drawing since I was 3 years old, so I think I was always interested Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My apprenticeship was horrible; they didn’t teach me anything, and I had to learn on my own ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I refuse to do gang-affiliated tattoos ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I’ll tattoo until I die!! ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? We all have those few bad experiences with unruly people, lol ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Always keep drawing, and most importantly, go with the flow and stay out of your own head. We are our own worst enemy. ✕

ALWAYS KEEP DRAWING, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, GO WITH THE FLOW AND STAY OUT OF YOUR OWN HEAD “ ”

Sioux Falls, SD Location We Got You Tattoo Owner/Artist

35 Years Tattooing

& Neo-Traditional Specialization

ANDRES JARAMILLO

At the time I started in the world of tattooing, there was very little information, and it was difficult to access. But all this, I think, helped me move forward and learn more every day, nowadays the tools and updates that the Tattoo Guild has had helped us to move faster and faster, and that is why we should not be against the new inventions of the world!

After graduating from the Professional Drawing Academy in 2015, I opened my studio, Inked Tattoo Shop, in the city of Cali. In 2016, I designed the octagon machine for the Panter brand, which brought hundreds of units to the market and is currently for sale.

In 2020 we launched an ink set called Latin Black Scale together with World Famous Ink, which is a set of pigments focused on black and white for Latin skin or skin that requires high purchases to have lasting finishes on the skin.

We currently organize a big event called the Orlando Tattoo Show in Florida. It is a great opportunity to summon many artists and contribute to the change in tattooing.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? When I started tattooing, I didn’t know anyone, and I didn’t have tattoos since I started when I was 14 years old. But thanks to the internet and books that I could download, I learned everything necessary. Then by attending conventions and seminars, I managed to learn many additional things!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I really like to have freedom while creating a tattoo; I consider it necessary to obtain good art.

What are your greatest achievements in the tattoo industry? My greatest achievements have been traveling to many countries, working with international ink brands and machines, and creating a team that brings new things to the industry.

What is the Orlando Tattoo Show? The Orlando Tattoo Show is a tattoo event created in 2022 in Florida! It is a tattoo event that seeks to promote the industry in this area and bring together the best tattoo artists in one of the most touristy cities in the United States! Thus

also allowing them to share this experience with family and friends.

What’s your tattoo shop? I’m currently working at Fallen Sparrow Tattoo in Kissimmee, Florida. But my own tattoo shop is Inked Tattoo Shop, located in Cali, Colombia, with more than eight years of working and providing the best experience to customers and artists in the city. ✕

Facundo Gil, 28 years old, from Argentina ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I am inspired by many colleagues both in the world of tattooing and photography ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Tattooing is art, so it must be valued and respected; you must choose not only what you want to do but also the artist (from my point of view, it is the most important thing). Also, something very important is to plan in advance that it may not be your last tattoo, so it is essential to know how and where to do it so as not to disturb upcoming projects in the future ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? The truth is that they always supported me; I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for them ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love disconnecting from the world and creating something that will last forever ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I always liked art, and I always thought about tattooing until I took

the initiative and decided to dedicate myself 100% ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I am not one of those people who have many skills; what they do comes naturally; I achieve things through perseverance and hard work, it was not easy, but that effort is paying off Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I think I’m more reluctant to make a portrait of Messi than to tattoo a particular area of the body; I’m not one to take advantage of someone’s moment of fame to make myself “famous” I’d rather be the only Argentine who didn’t do it, my work will speak for itself ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? My dream is to be able to inspire others and teach them that dreams can come true and surround myself with the greatest in the world of tattooing ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? The truth is that many artists have big egos; so, you can meet incredible people as well as have bad experiences and disappointments ✕

BEST OF SUNDAY

FACUNDO GIL

Independent Artist Los Angeles, CA Location

8 Years Tattooing

High Contrast B&G, and Skulls Specialty @facundogil.ink Instagram

ABBEY SCHULZ

I grew up a military brat, moving all around the US. We eventually settled in New Hampshire, where I started out doing henna tattoos at craft fairs, farmer’s markets, and local events, sparking my love for body art. Right out of high school at 17 years old, I found my first apprenticeship at Avalon Ink. After a two year apprenticeship and three years of tattooing professionally, I opened my own private studio in downtown Manchester, NH. I still love to travel, visit different states, and attend as many tattoo conventions as I can ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get my inspiration from wherever I can! Other artists, my environment, my clients... there’s inspiration everywhere if you’re looking for it. If I ever feel stagnant or experience “artist’s block,” I try to put myself in a new environment or see things from a new perspective. With the right perspective, anything is art ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I am very lucky to say all of my family and friends were incredibly supportive of my tattoo career. Most of them donated

some skin for my early tattoo endeavors. The most supportive, though, was my mom. She helped me talk to some professionals in the field when I was 15-17 years old, so I knew both what I would be getting myself into and how to get into an apprenticeship. She’s still my biggest fan ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is making people feel more confident in their own skin. Whether my client feels they have a little too much fat, they have a scar they don’t love or any other bodily insecurity... a tattoo has always made them love themselves a little more. I’m so grateful to be a part of that experience ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will never do any tattoos that spread hatred or intolerance. Other than that, I’m not your mother! While I will give advice and my personal opinion on designs and placement, ultimately, it’s not my body, and I won’t be the one carrying it around for the rest of my life. As long as my client is fully educated, sober, and happy with the tattoo, that’s all that matters. ✕

ABBEY SHAW

I am a 25-year-old artist from Joplin, MO, who started out as a self-taught oil painter and ended up lucky enough to tattoo full-time ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I am largely inspired by the belle époque or art nouveau era and my uncle, John Roberts, who is a professional oil painter. I also love Audrey Kawasaki’s portraits of women ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Take good care of your body (aka hydrate, rest, eat, moisturize your skin) and research artists heavily to make sure you find the best fit for you. This is essential when it comes to getting beautiful work ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family and friends didn’t expect it because I was going to college for classical music and was nearing the end of my degree. They support me wholeheartedly, especially my parents, husband, and close friends ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is when I get to form wholesome relationships with my clientele and see how tattoos positively affect their self-esteem ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It wasn’t hard for me to get an apprenticeship. I went in for my first tattoo and befriended my artist. It all started there. My apprenticeship was hard, but I’m so glad that I powered through ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.)

I am really okay with tattooing any location on the body; however, I will not do the tattoo if my client makes me uncomfortable or hasn’t showered. I will also not do any hate symbols ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t be too hard on yourself. Allow yourself to be human and realize mistakes happen because that is what makes art and tattooing so special. Also, don’t forget to take breaks! ⸺ How would you advise someone to go about getting an apprenticeship? Research shops and mentors. Be persistent but listen carefully to what they tell you. Build a portfolio of different mediums such as oil paintings, graphite or ink drawings, watercolor, and acrylic. Show your passion for art and tattoos. Don’t slap something together 5 minutes before you go to the shop. We can tell. ✕

I was born in Bremerton, Washington, and raised in Oakland, California. I have family in both states, so I bounced back and forth quite often. I ended up graduating from Alameda High and then attended college for a short while in Berkeley. During my first semester, I realized that going to school wasn’t what I wanted. So I moved to Las Vegas with my best friend, and I started my first tattoo apprenticeship.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get my inspiration from the Pacific Island & Polynesian culture. Artistically I look up to many tribal artists like Usomaniak out of Kent, WA., Bong out of Las Vegas, Mike Fatutoa (known as Samoan Mike), ThaKuya out of San Diego, and many more. The purpose behind tribal art itself inspires me to learn more and pass on the knowledge I’ve learned from my peers and elders.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Be ready mentally, financially, and physically. Meditate, breathe deep, and come to terms with the pain. Tattoos aren’t cheap. They are a lifetime investment, so make sure you choose the right artist and also be ready to pay the premium price for great art. Please be mindful of your hygiene. We spend hours on end with our beloved clients, but we don’t want to smell your armpits or any other of your crevasses. Take a shower, wear deodorant, and brush your teeth.

Bring some food/snacks, drinks, and electrolytes to your appointment. It will help your body endure the pain.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Never stop learning. Never think that you have learned enough. Always be a student of the game, no matter how good you think you are. Also, learn how to finance your income. Us tattooers don’t have the same financial setup as those who work for an employer. We don’t have a 401k, a retirement plan, a health plan, or automatic tax deductions. We have to plan all of that ourselves. So make sure you aren’t screwing off with your money. Put some away for your kids, for your future, for your taxes, and keep receipts of all your business purchases. Stay humble on your journey. ✕

5 Years

Tattooing

Bremerton Kitsap County, WA Location

Independent Artist Polynesian Tribal/ Black & Grey Specialization

threewavestat2

@icloud.com

@sharkoftheocean Instagram

AJ JUNCAJ

2 Years Tattooing Chicago, IL Location

Independent Artist Fine Line, Abstract Blackwork Anime/Manga Specialty

@apj.exe

Instagram

apjtattoos0 @gmail.com

I’ve been living in Chicago for a little over a year now, from Detroit originally! That is also where I started tattooing; I tattoo fine-line florals, manga/anime pieces, and abstract blackwork.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) I always tell people to first do their research on artists. Don’t just walk into any tattoo shop and get tattooed. Find an

artist that does artwork that you love. Not just “good tattoos” but has an art style that fits with what you are looking for and trust them. The more limitations and specifics you set, the harder it is for us to work with.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My friends and chosen family have always been 100% supportive of tattooing, knowing it was something I had always wanted to

do. My biological family definitely would rather I got into something else, but that only made me work harder and want to be better.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is definitely being able to help people feel better in their own skin. I know firsthand what it is like to not want to live in your own body. And for me and so many others, every time I get adorned

with a new tattoo, it feels euphoric and makes me feel like my skin is mine. I love being able to do that for people.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I was so young; I don’t remember at all! For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to tattoo. Ever since age 11 or so, when I discovered what tattooing was, I knew I wanted to be covered in tattoos, as well as be able to do them.

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

Be prepared to eat, sleep, and breathe tattooing. What a lot of people don’t understand is that it’s a 24/7 job. You don’t stop working when you go home. And the responsibility/weight of being a tattoo artist is extremely taxing on your mind in more ways than you could imagine. ✕

Tattooer and mum. Shop owner of a little studio in a historic river town in Maine. Always inspired by conceptual art, architecture, nature (thanks, Maine), and traveling. I paint stuff ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My son is my biggest drive to make something cool every day; gotta stay trendy for the kids, ya know? Also, architecture has always had a pull on me, and I’ve gathered a lot of inspiration from it, as for artists: Gustave Dore, Jeff Gogue, Justin Hartman, Carlos Torres, and Richard J Oliver ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Never listen to your friends or Facebook recommendations. Just go do your own snooping, and find the artist that best suits what you are looking for. Expect it to hurt, but nowhere near as bad as what you’re anticipating. Eat and drink(water) in the hour leading up to your appointment. Listen to your artist about aftercare instructions ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My friends cheered me on. My family worried about my financial security, but now tell everyone about me and the business ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Bad habits die hard. Learn in a licensed establishment, and then take steps to enrich yourself from there (books, YouTube, getting tattooed)

⸺ What have you learned in your tattooing career that you wish you would have known at the start?

Mental health days are ok-work them into your monthly schedule in advance ⸺ How do you balance mom/ work life? Use your family, extended family, literally anyone who is around willing to spare some of their time. I decided after the pandemic that I would stop working Saturdays during the summer. Now I am able to arrange more adventures with my son. Plan your dinners for the week ahead of time, whether that be meal prep or just a recipe to leave your partner. Go to work later, so you have time to draw in the mornings. You’ll be less distracted when you get home to your kid(s) in the evening. Do not forget to put yourself first and take care of yourself; everything else can wait. ✕

Artist

Clinically depressed, from the Midwest! ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Body horror movies and manga, unnerving aspects of real nature, guro, feral babes, retro gaming, TeamSESH, and 90’s goth ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Don’t bring a group of people with you. Avoid getting your first tattoo on your ribs. Fight the urge to get a super tiny tattoo. Your tattoo doesn’t need a meaning. Eat! ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love that I get to help people change their appearance in a way that makes them feel more confident in their own skin. It’s always a bonus if that confidence comes from getting a butt sleeve of bones and bugs ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I was born in 1993, which means a good chunk of my childhood was spent browsing the internet by myself. I became fascinated by the BME website and knew that I wanted to look like the people on there. I was always into anime as a kid and loved to draw my own (terrible quality) manga. I wanted to have an art career

but didn’t want to have to make logos or paint commissioned art of people’s kids. Tattooing gave me the ability to have complete freedom and control over my life and was the perfect fit for all of my interests ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will tattoo any body part, but I will refuse to tattoo any subject matter that is racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, or supports the ideals of any hate group ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? The industry is oversaturated right now. We do, however, have some fantastic tools like Procreate, which help the design process immensely. The quality of tattoos has skyrocketed, with social media giving us the ability to share information and inspiration ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? At the beginning of your career, you are absolutely going to do some bad tattoos. There will be days when you go home feeling terrible about yourself. It is worth sticking through. We all constantly improve and learn from every tattoo we make- that learning never stops. ✕

Andres Makishi is a Peruvian tattoo artist with 9 years of experience. He currently resides in New York City and is a resident artist at the prestigious studio Ink Nation. He specializes in realism and micro-realism.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I like different forms of art like comic books, cartoons, anime, and video games; even when I am walking on the street, I find inspirational things for my next tattoo piece.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) To look for an artist, take your time to check the portfolio, that the studio is in good condition, and for the tattoo to be something with meaning because it is for life.

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

I always had support from my family, probably because they are all artists too. My dad assembled my first tattoo machine; he used a pen and an engine from one of those little car toys. Making my family proud of me is something that gives me a lot of joy; there are no words to express how grateful I am to them.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Intimate areas or tattoos that I know would not look good in the long term, there are many variables that play into the making

of a tattoo piece; size, positioning, and area, with experience, I have developed an eye to foresee what is and what is not visually appealing.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Probably new types of ink, like inks that change color when exposed to some type of light or that can look good and be easily removed by laser. That might increase the number of people getting lasered and then getting new pieces more often.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Discipline is what has worked best for me. Do not just focus on tattooing; try other forms of art like painting and digital design; learning other expressions of art really expands your perspective and point of view, like training the eye. ✕

ANDRES MAKISHI

AOMOA

My name is Aom; I’m 29 years old and was born in Thailand. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Printmaking from Silpakorn University. I have been a tattoo artist for ten years, and now I am also the owner of Aomoa Tattoo Studio ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? There are various sources that get me inspired, such as musicians, artists, and friends on social media. I feel like I already knew art fundamentals as I was an art student in college, so I decided to give it a try by tattooing ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) If you are about to get your first tattoo, I would suggest doing it and making it a fun part of your life ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family is really happy and always supports me, especially since I can make a living by being a tattoo artist and having my own studio ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It is definitely

hard for the first time, but the essential key is practicing. Even though I get used to many techniques, when there are other challenging things like skin tone or harder positions, I have to start learning and practicing again ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I would not tattoo on private areas and some spots that are risky to have unpleasant outcomes because I want my work to turn out the best it can be ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? There might be an automatic tattoo machine that could do simple works or invisible inks that could be gone in a period of time ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? I would suggest that practicing in the right ways since you begin is important. Although there might be some accidents and you have to change the plan, planning for your work is needed. Also, be inspired by others as it could motivate you to create work and to ensure the quality of your work. ✕

Painting, drawing, printmaking Specialization

Aomoa Tattoo Studio Owner/Artist BKK, Eekamai, Thailand Location @aomoahaa Instagram aomoahaa @gmail.com

Intuitive Latina tattoo artist changing the tattoo community within Staten Island–an often overlooked NYC borough full of talent and culture.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Always look for an artist you like with a nice consistent portfolio. See if they have reviews. A long waitlist is a GREAT thing, so don’t let it scare you away too fast. A great tip for an artist is a hot tea/coffee, snack, food, etc… a little appreciation goes such a long way, and most artists forget to eat/drink adequately, especially during long workdays or conventions.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I met my mentor through Instagram, and he’s now

ARTSY ASHLEE

my business partner and brother from another mother. It wasn’t hard, but the journey definitely wasn’t easy. In the beginning, I was working a full-time job, a part-time job, and apprenticing. I went one year without one day off, but I wanted to get a tattoo so badly. I knew this was my calling. I dealt with sexual harassment, belittling, and bullying from shop owners and artists that I looked up to. They still taught me lessons, though, on exactly what I never wanted to be like.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t listen to anyone who doesn’t look happy. Don’t take advice from people who don’t have their shit together. Social media is free promotion. Don’t rush anything; let everything flow naturally, and be patient with your journey and yourself. Learn how to take constructive criticism; it will only make you better and wiser!

What’s the weirdest thing you ever tattooed? A chicken wing. And when I asked my friend why? She simply replied because I just love chicken, and that’s a whole mood.

What are some goals you have for 2023?

I’ve recently been diagnosed with lupus, so I’ve been raising awareness and advocating for that. I also want to meet more artists around the world and see beautiful, new places. Tattooing has given me the freedom to travel, so I want to take advantage of that. ✕

ASH BUTTERS

I grew up overseas in Dubai, UAE. Once I graduated from high school, I moved to London for a year to attend university. Things didn’t work out there, and I ended up attending Parsons in New York City. Once I graduated from there, I didn’t know if I would ever be a good enough artist, so I decided to focus on a more scientific approach to art and fell in love with User Interface Designs. I went to Full Sail in Florida and graduated with my master’s in Game Design. Unfortunately, I fell out of love with it and wanted to go back to my art roots. One thing led to another, and now I tattoo!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is having the honor of getting my artwork tattooed on someone forever. I enjoy

meeting new people and learning why they choose the designs that they do. I feel honored when they choose me to either get their first piece or be a part of their journey to healing. If my artwork can help a client with more self-esteem or healing, is there really any better compliment than that?

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I grew up overseas in an area where I didn’t even think being a tattoo artist was a job that was possible to get. I had never even seen a tattoo shop until I moved to London. It wasn’t until after I graduated with my master’s that I considered pursuing tattooing as a career choice. Right around when I started to collect my first tattoos, I was struggling mentally with self-esteem issues. I saw my friends collecting

their own tattoos and seeing how their selfesteem grew. At the same time, I wanted to get back to my roots in art. When I saw the effect tattooing was having on my friends, I wanted to be a part of that.

Where do you want to take your tattoo career? I recently opened up a private studio in Lake Mary, FL. I want to pursue a few tattoo conventions; I got to do my first one a few years ago, and it was an incredible experience. In the future, I would love to open up my own shop that doesn’t just focus on tattooing but provides a place that feels safe for women and members of the LGBTQ+ community as clients. It’d be amazing to offer tattoo removal, hair cutting, nail art, and more all under one building. ✕

AUSTIN LAWRENCE

Austin Lawrence, 32 years old. I was born and raised in Kalispell, MT. I’ve been tattooing 7 years and specialize in black and grey realism and coverups. I own Lawrence Ink design and tattoo studio out of Kalispell, MT ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? A lot of other artists I look up to, like Greg Nicholson, Michael Perry, Edgar Marquez, etc. Also, photography and music ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) I’d tell them not every detail has to have a significant meaning. Keep it simple and let the artist do their thing ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Everyone was super supportive and excited that I found something I’m so passionate about ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? That it doesn’t feel like a job, there is a lot that goes into running your own business but being able to support my family by creating permanent art that people carry with them for the rest of their lives is an amazing feeling ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’ve drawn for most of my life, and art has always been therapeutic for me. Seeing bikers, musicians, and convicts all covered in tattoos was just something that always grabbed my attention. Before tattooing, I wasn’t doing anything positive with my life. Between drug addiction and federal prison, tattooing gave me a way out of that life and fulfilled a desire and passion I had been looking for for so long ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I won’t do a tattoo I feel is not gonna hold up over time, all these micro, super small tattoos I see lately can look good when first done, but most don’t age well ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? That’s hard to say, the quality of equipment and the level of craftsmanship is insane right now ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Keep your focus on the art and your client, not on social media. ✕

BECCA LYNN

I am a 21-year-old artist and tattooer residing in the Sunshine State. I eat, sleep, and breathe art - my only goal in life is to create and give everything I have to that. I am traditionally trained in watercolor and illustration for animation ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Most of my inspiration comes from animation and film. Companies like Studio Ghibli and animation companies alike inspire me to create colorful and magical pieces. Fellow artists and tattooers inspire me every day with their beautiful works and passion ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Meeting people! It sounds cliche when I say it, but I love connecting with people. I have never been a people person, but ever since being in this industry, I have loved getting to meet my clients and other artists! They are the fuel to my passion ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Absolutely! Gang-related, racist or anything along those lines is a clear no. I also refuse hand, face, and throat tattoos unless the person is heavily tattooed or is older with no job concerns. Essentially I won’t do a job-stopper if you are not

secure in your life, so no younger people will get those from me ⸺ What is your favorite placement to tattoo? It will sound absurd, but I love tattooing ribs/sternum areas and kneecaps! They’re utmost challenging spots to tattoo but easily my favorite; granted, I have consistently had the most badass clients that handle these painful placements like champs ⸺ What do you want to achieve in the tattoo industry? There are so many things I’d like to achieve during my tattoo career, but I must say it boils down to just inspiring people through my passion and love for what I do. Whether I inspire clients to go after their own dreams or inspire other artists and tattooers to push themselves. I just want to create amazing things and inspire all these beautiful humans ⸺ What would you consider your style to be?

My style is a mix of everything I love - Neo Traditional, Japanese Traditional, and Anime/Kawaii things. I have such a deep love for all of these styles and elements - I have created and integrated so much of them into my art to create something unique and different. Something I can look at and am truly in love with. ✕

My name is Jaclyn Bergantino; I was born and raised in New Jersey and moved to the Tampa area in 2010, where I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of South Florida. I have since made Fl my home, and together, my husband and I are raising two beautiful and headstrong little girls. I worked for a couple of local tattoo shops and quickly learned that opening my own studio would be more beneficial for my family. So, with the help and support of my husband, we opened The Ivy, fine art & tattoo in Largo, FL which has been incredibly successful. We have an all-female staff now, and we are truly invested in creating a safe space for all bodies to feel comfortable and welcome. Now I can make my own schedule and never miss a thing with my kids. I love my coworkers and clients, and I truly appreciate their trust in me.

I prefer to tattoo in a painterly realism style featuring florals and faces. I really love doing realism nipple/ areola tattooing and mastectomy covers.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) I would advise anyone getting their first tattoo to first and foremost do their research. Decide what you want and find the right artist for that style. Social media makes viewing portfolios so easy. Look for healed photos and make sure what you’re asking this artist for is something that they enjoy doing.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is when I can

see the look on a client’s face when they see their tattoo for the first time. Especially when I get the honor to do nipple/ areola and mastectomy tattoos, these are truly life-changing for some people, and I love helping them feel whole again. I dedicate one day per month to doing free areola/nipple tattoos for those who have lost them.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will absolutely never tattoo hate symbols. I do permanent makeup, but I do not do regular tattoos on faces. I have the luxury of being able to tell people no. So, no. I will not tattoo genitals, either. ✕

5 Years Tattooing

Largo, FL Location

TheIvyArts Owner/Artists

Realism & Watercolor Specialty @jaclyn.artist Instagram & Facebook @theivyarts.com Instagram

theIvyArts .com

JACLYN BERGANTINO

I was born in Houston, Texas. At the age of 12, I moved to South Texas and later to Corpus Christi. At the age of 18, I was introduced to tattooing while I was getting my architectural degree. I started tattooing later that year at a shop with really no formal training other than the Huck Spaulding book “Tattooing from A to Z.” The rest is history.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get inspired by the artists in my studio mostly. Also, from numerous artists I’ve worked with throughout the years working at tattoo conventions across the country.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Be sure it’s what you want, and seek a professional/reputable artist. People should actually go in and speak with the artist. Too many people just want to rely on the internet to find one, but it’s also about the vibe the artist gives you.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I saw a friend of mine get one and thought it was cool. To make a drawing on something that was so permanent!

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Never had one. I would definitely have preferred to, but it wasn’t in my cards!

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t like tattooing faces or private areas, for sure! I think my favorite place is the hand. Not sure why.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I think with all the new formally trained artists entering the industry, I think it will and has definitely upped the bar. It’s hard to keep up.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Usually, it’s just been hard to please customers! But I seem to always get through it.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Seek out an apprenticeship from a reputable artist and not just someone at a shop that says they will teach you. Tattoo studios are filled with not-so-great artists. Do your research. Has anyone followed in your footsteps? My son has been tattooing since he was ten. Now he’s a 25-year-old artist with 15 years’ experience. Plus, he is a phenomenal tattooer! ✕

BRANDON ALLTON

My name is Brandon Allton; I am the owner of Dying Breed Tattoo, located in Sacramento, California. My goal is to create a place for up-and-coming artists to grow and learn the industry in a safe and inspiring environment. Some of my greatest achievements are opening my own shop and mastering my craft. I’m very passionate about life in general ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get my inspiration from other artists. I also get inspiration from traveling and enjoying life ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I come from a religious background, but my family and friends were always super supportive of me and my art ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part about my job is creating people’s visions through my artwork to give them beautiful tattoos to wear for life ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My first time in a tattoo shop, I fell in love with the ambiance and vibe the artists created, and it was that moment I knew I wanted to be a part of the industry

forever ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? For the most part, I’ve never had a bad experience. The things I don’t put up with are inappropriate behavior, bad vibes, and cheap people ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Take your time developing the style of tattoos you do. Try out a few different styles and see what you enjoy working with most. Always push yourself to make each piece your best piece. Never stop growing in the industry ⸺ How old were you when you started tattooing? I started tattooing at 18 years old; I am currently 31 years old ⸺ What pushed you to start tattooing? I lost a lot of friends growing up, and that geared me towards doing something I loved in life for the simple fact that life is short and should be lived to its fullest potential ⸺ Do you regret any of your tattoos? No, I believe tattoos are like a timeline of your life. I enjoy looking back at each tattoo and remembering life and what I was going through at that time. It’s a never-ending evolution of growth. ✕

“I BELIEVE TATTOOS ARE LIKE A TIMELINE OF YOUR LIFE.”

Michigan native, currently based in East Lansing, with design and illustration degrees, learned tattooing well after college in S.Korea and tattooed there for 10 years before finally returning to the States in 2022.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I love how art nouveau has gained a lot of traction in tattooing, especially in the past decade. That 1800s movement as a whole remains unique and inspiring to this day.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is when a client is gung ho about whatever I want to do for them – when we both are on the same page.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

Probably when I was a young teen and saw all my favorite music artists (i.e., MxPx) who were covered in tattoos, and I thought they not only looked so cool but that they flipped that taboo stereotype on its head and were awesome, friendly people who loved other people and built people up rather than tearing them down.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I was living in Korea for 13 years, and 3 years in, I found a Canadian guy, Jeff, who was tattooing on his own, and I asked him to show me the ropes. He was cool enough to say ‘yes.’ The apprenticeship was

tedious, but everything worth doing may be tedious but worth the wait when you see yourself improving over time.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Any time I get cocky (which is rare, I promise) and create ugly blow-outs! The worst feeling ever. And any time my client stinks.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Never get a big head. REMAIN TEACHABLE and humble. Admit your mistakes before they’re pointed out. Know when to quit (for the day), take a breather, and start again tomorrow. Set big goals, and the big achievements will come; however, also congratulate yourself on tiny achievements rather than putting yourself down.

Where do you see yourself in the near future? Traveling around the world and sharing my passion for tattooing with others. I love traveling and meeting new people I personally connect with. If you want me to do a guest spot near you, let me know! ✕

BRANDON INMAN

11 Years

Tattooing

East Lansing, MI Location

Splash of Color Tattoo Shop

Neo-traditional Art Nouveau Specialty

@brandoni_tattoo Instagram

brandoni.tattoo @gmail.com

splashtattoo .com

BRAXTON

I finished my apprenticeship at 18 years old and have been tattooing full-time for the last 10 years. I just recently opened my first studio (Silver Lining Studio) in 2022. I’m a father to two beautiful children, my 9-year-old daughter Gracelyn and my 2-year-old son Karson ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? In the earlier years of my career, my inspiration came from Nikko Hurtado and Phil Garcia. As my career developed, my inspiration came from a few of the people I now have the pleasure of working with. They are: Brandon Herrera, TeeJ Poole, and Trey Dumbroski ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Some of them were very skeptical at first because of the “stereotypical nature” of the industry. It didn’t take long for most of my friends and family to get on board, though, and now they are some of my biggest supporters ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? It came by complete accident. In 10th grade, I started my senior project, which was on the history of different tattoo cultures. I

went to a tattoo shop to start research and fell in love with it. Ironically in my 12th-grade year, they discontinued the senior project, so my whole career got its start from a project I never finished in high school ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? In the course of 10 years, there’s more than I can count. I’d love to tell you some of the crazy stories I have, but you’ll have to come to see me, and I’ll tell you in person ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? First and foremost, network and put yourself around good people. A good friend/support group is crucial if you’re serious about being in this industry. I wish I had networked more in the earlier part of my caree. Secondly, you need to respect the fact all of the artists you look up to have dedicated their lives to this craft and that if you aren’t prepared to do the same, it’s going to be hard to succeed in this industry alongside them. Stay humble and patient. Never get to a point where you feel you have nothing left to learn. ✕

“UNIQUE INK”

CARLOS RAMIREZ

I’m an NYC sneaker head color artist who happens to do black n grey. I’ve made sure to learn how to master every skin tone/ type while applying color.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Various artists but mostly from New York City Graffiti, but to be more specific, my inspiration is Joe Capobianco.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Make sure it’s something you want for the rest of your life and it has some form of importance to you. Make sure you study the artist that you will be going to when you’re getting your tattoo.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My mom has always been supportive of my art since I was a child, so she supported my tattoo journey and still does.

13 Years Tattooing

Bronx, NY Location

Independent Artist

Neo-traditional Color Specialty

@uniqueinktattoos_nyc Instagram

luisunique1224 @gmail.com

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Building a custom piece for my clients that I know they will be walking around having my art is more of a rewarding part.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Yes, but not from tattoos but more like shop politics.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Yes, I’m self-taught. My journey wasn’t as smooth as others may have had it.

Are t here any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Yes. Tribals and rib cages.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? What sparked my interest in tattooing was failing digital art in high school, so I looked for a different form of art that represented me as a career choice; Miami

Ink was that spark for me at the age of 17.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I don’t know, to be honest.

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

The most important advice I can give someone is to actually respect this craft. When you’re not drawing, you’re tattooing, and vice versa, which was something told to me by Jack Rudy at a convention. ✕

CODY RYAN PAPPAS Artist

I knew I wanted to make a career out of tattooing after the first time I picked up a tattoo machine. I’ve been an artist from a young age and always knew I wanted tattoos. I just never connected the dots until a close friend pushed me to get an apprenticeship. After that first tattoo, I never looked back; I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part about tattooing is that I get to create art on people for a living. It’s so rewarding to see how my art can have such a positive effect on someone’s life, whether it’s giving them more confidence in themself or helping them remember a loved one/a time in their life. There are so many reasons why people get tattoos, and I really enjoy helping them take that vision and turn it into a walking piece of art ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Getting an apprenticeship wasn’t too hard, and in comparison to some of the nightmare apprenticeships I’ve heard about, I don’t think it was too bad. I was one of the first apprentices to be taught by my mentor, so

there were some growing pains for both ends. But my mentor and I became very close friends, and I had a lot of good people around at that shop, so it really was a positive experience ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Yes, I turn down projects all the time, whether it’s something I’m uncomfortable with or just something I’m not interested in at the moment in time. I try to be picky with what I accept to tattoo. I feel it’s important to turn down projects if I’m not fully committed to or interested in them. I can tell the difference in my work when I’m not, and it’s not fair to the client ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I think tattooing is only going to keep growing. In the 9 years I’ve been in the industry; it’s already evolved so much. I feel like technology is only getting better, and artists are continuously pushing the limits of what people thought was possible to put on the skin. So I really think anything is possible for the future of tattooing as long as people keep outdoing what was done yesterday. ✕

CLOVER ALDEN

Clover is a transgender tattooer from Memphis, TN. They have drawn their whole life and studied illustration at Kansas City Art Institute in Missouri. In addition to tattooing, Clover has done freelance work for musicians, most notably Julien Baker and Denzel Curry. Veganism, sustainability, and leftist practices are important values to Clover. In their free time, they enjoy reading, playing video games, and walking nature trails. An animal lover, Clover would be lost without their companion cats, Lettuce and Nori ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I grew up reading a lot of manga and comics. I’m inspired by nature and wildlife, as well as domestic imagery such as furniture and full-room scenes. Music and song lyrics invoke more surreal imagery for me, which I find the most interesting ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Drink a lot of water the day before and the morning leading up to your appointment. Eat a carb-heavy and protein-rich meal before your appointment ⸺ What did your

family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I’ve been lucky to be supported by almost everyone in my life.

⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Providing a service that helps people feel more at home in their bodies ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I’d always appreciated the craft and began getting tattooed 13 years ago when I was 18. I saw it as a career potential after encouragement from my lifelong best friends, Emily and Ariel. ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) If I like the idea and the client, I am generally down for whatever. There’s specific imagery I don’t like tattooing or drawing, and I will offer a referral to those requests. A client getting the best tattoo is more important to me than the money I would make off of the project ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? More styles and more acceptance in terms of queerness and gender; less stigma around DIY and self-taught artists. ✕

CHARLIE KARNAGE

I’m Charlie Karnage; I’m an award-winning black and grey dark surrealism artist.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? When I first started out, my main inspiration was always Paul booth; my dad was covered in his flash.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Drink plenty of water! Being hydrated makes such a huge difference.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I’m really not sure, it was pretty mixed, but my dad definitely believed in me even when I was basically scribbling on people,

13 Years Tattooing Independent Artist N.E., OH Location

B&G Dark illustrative, B&G realism Specialization charliekarnage @gmail.com @charliekarnage Instagram

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love doing big cool tattoos at conventions with my favorite artists.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) There are no specific places on the body, but I don’t do color.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Hopefully, better tattoos that are done cleaner.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Tons of them! It’s part of the job; one time,

I got kicked in the face while tattooing a foot.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I practically grew up in tattoo shops; my dad sold pot to all the local Artists.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? It was super easy for me, I started in a street shop, and they didn’t really care about quality. My actual apprenticeship was pretty harsh; nobody does it how we used to.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Do it better and try harder; there’s no reason anybody else can do it better than you.

Do you prefer coil machines or rotary machines? Rotary machines all day; they’re cleaner and better in every way.

Who taught you how to tattoo? Coreh Lopez.

What has been the biggest accomplishment in your career? Well, I’m an award-winning magazine feature artist, but one time Paul Booth said my tattoo was cool, so definitely that. ✕

I’m originally from Birmingham, England, and I worked there and guested around the UK and Europe for almost ten years before relocating to New York City. I’m now a resident artist at Grit N Glory in Manhattan.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Attending conventions, traveling, and being around other tattooers helps a lot. I would say my personal inspiration will always be nature and the folklore that surrounds wild places. I also have an affinity for creepy Halloween pop culture.

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

They were generally very supportive because I was always a creative oddball, and it seemed like an outlet for that; I think they’re just glad I found my place in the world!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I think when people get something and say, ‘I can’t stop looking at it,’ or when I make a pet portrait, and they’re just smiling at it constantly and remarking how it looks better/ more like them than they imagined, I just think it’s really rewarding to give people something that they’re excited about and excited to show off.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It wasn’t that hard to get my apprenticeship because I could draw, and it wasn’t even close to as competitive as it is now. It was a difficult experience looking back because I definitely experienced misogyny, but I mostly blocked it out because

I wanted to tattoo. So, as a result, there’s a lot I don’t remember, and it’s probably for the best!

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t think there are tattoos I would refuse to do other than hate symbols. There’s no area of the body I would outright refuse to tattoo because I love tattooing, and I think it’s all part of the experience.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? If I had to narrow it down for a younger generation of tattooers, I would say I think it’s important that you respect those who have more experience than you, even if you have more of a following, because I can guarantee you can learn more valuable things about the industry from them. Also, probably the most important is that you care about your customer’s body more than you care about your social media content! ✕

CHARLOTTE TIMMONS

13 Years Tattooing New York, NY Location

Independent Artist

Illustrative Neotraditional Animal portraits Specialty @charlotte.e.tattoos Instagram

charlotte.eleanor.bookings @gmail.com gritnglory .com

Traveling Artist, US Army Veteran. Owner of Secret Lotus Tattoo, Sponsored by King Grip Tattoo Supply & Natures Beast. Also a pro team artist with Inkjunkyz & Secret Lotus Tattoo Pro Team ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My inspiration started in the beginning stages of tattooing, constantly studying Myke Chambers. He played a big influence in my chase for bold solid crisp lines and bright colors ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The best part about tattooing is if you truly love it, then it does not feel like a job, and being able to do what I love makes it my favorite part of the job ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Growing up religious, I would sneak and watch Tattoo Nightmares and Inkmasters. Seeing it on tv and it being opposite of what I was being raised on; naturally, curiosity helped spark my interest ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? No, thankfully, I met my mentor Nick Hydo when I walked into the shop to get my neck worked on. After hours of talking, he saw my will to learn and drive to do it; he offered it to me ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I’ve done every tattoo, hand, neck, face, and private area (I tattooed my homies private area Bermuda Blue) also put a piece of cheese on another homie’s gooche, so I’d only say no if I felt internally that it’s better to not ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Big changes and more styles. I believe that we will still have tattoos that are “trendy” every year, but who knows what it’ll be? With the vast array of different black and grey styles alone, we have now, who knows what else style-wise could come? ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Thankfully not yet, but I’ve seen a lot of it from other artists’ experiences ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Trial and error but in safe measures. Let tattooing guide you and loosen up. Being tense and nervous should be the last worry you have. ✕

CHOLO SUPREME

“LET TATTOOING GUIDE YOU AND LOOSEN UP”

My name is Chris Amonett, I’m 26 years old, and I’ve been tattooing for about 2 years. After serving 6 years as a combat medic in the U.S. Army, I dedicated my life to following my passion as an artist.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast! Just take a deep breath and focus on the task at hand. Don’t think of doing an entire tattoo; rather, think of doing a line, then another line, then pack black in this area. So on and so forth, then eventually, you’ll have a finished tattoo!

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Seeing the reaction of my client’s faces when they see the finished tattoo. It makes all the hours worth it.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It was very hard. I was turned down by about 8-10 different shops before I found a shop that would have me. My apprenticeship consisted of working 20hr days, 7 days a week, for about 6-7 months due to being in the Army at the same time as my apprenticeship. I would have to wake up at 4:30 every morning, go to Army work, get off at 5-6 pm, then work at the shop until 11-12 at night.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? The industry itself is currently in a state of rapid expansion and has been for the past 10-15 years. I think the industry is going to do nothing but grow rapidly as artists are consistently getting better and better.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I had some nightmare clients when I first started tattooing. I’ve had someone knock over my stand and knock over all my inks and broke my brand-new machine and didn’t even apologize or ask if he could help replace anything.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Practice and patience are key. It’s cliche, but it’s true. The more you practice on fake skin, the more familiar you’ll get with how the inks and needles work. Don’t be afraid to try a design you don’t know if you can do (on fake skin, of course)! You won’t learn unless you try it! ✕

DANE HILTZ

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I gain inspiration daily from the amazing tattooers and artists whom I choose to surround myself with in any capacity. You know who you are. WC ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Drink water, eat food, sleep, and show up ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I received unconditional support from most, which is where I chose to focus my energy. There will always be people who want you to fail; it’s only because you are doing something they could never do ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The relationships made that span the years mean so much to me; so many conversations, laughs, and great tattoos with fantastic clients, friends, and family ⸺ What was it that initially sparked

your interest in tattooing? Seeing old bold tattoo flash changed my life ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My apprenticeship found me naturally. Two quality tattooers/ friends/brothers presented me with an opportunity that, looking back, changed my life in so many ways ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Of course. Email me your ideas, and I’ll let you know if you make the cut ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Tattooing evolves daily, accepting that it is harder to do than we admit. With the right amount of tradition and advances in technology, the future of tattooing will never fade ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Draw, draw, draw. Be present, ask questions, and try everything. Trust your Master. ✕

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CHICAGO, IL

SPEAKEASY CUSTOM TATTOO

10 Resident Artists

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@patrickcornolo Instagram

speakeasycustomtattoo.com

Owned by Patrick Cornolo, Speakeasy Custom Tattoo is located in the Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago, IL. Patrick has been tattooing in Chicago since 1994 and opened Speakeasy in 2008.

When Patrick opened Speakeasy, his intention was to do things differently than the average tattoo shop at the time (custom tattoo shops are more the norm now than in 2008). The idea was to have an appointment-only custom tattoo shop, designed not only to be a highly functional, clean work environment but also to have a very comfortable, relaxed atmosphere that puts both the artists and clients at ease and is conducive to artistic growth. He wanted to make a space where artists could have the freedom to explore their personal artistic styles as well as learn from other artists at the shop. Watching artists learn and seeing their styles change and progress over the years has been a highlight. We want your tattoo experience to be as memorable as the piece of art you leave with; Patrick and his wife Kelly, who handles the administrative side of things, have dedicated many years to this business model and are very proud of the artists and reputation the shop has created.

Speakeasy has 10 resident artists representing multiple tattoo

styles. We have curated a staff of magnificently talented local and international artists and continue to host monthly guest artists from all over the world. We are very fortunate to have a large international guest artist roster, many of who come back on a regular basis. Our regular clientele really enjoys being able to get tattoos from all over the world without leaving Chicago, and we love making connections with so many amazing artists.

All of our artists do their own appointments, and most have a wait anywhere from one month to two years to get in, so we ask our clients to please be patient with wait and response times. If you want to rush into a tattoo, this may not be the shop for you. Our shop mainly focuses on larger custom tattoos, but some of our artists do also take on smaller pieces.

Being a custom tattoo shop, we prefer to work with our clients to come up with an original piece of art that you will not find on any wall. Each artist at Speakeasy works directly with their own clients, creating artwork with your input and their vision. We believe you should pick an artist based on how their style suits your needs. ✕

Patrick Cornolo Owner/Artist

2008 Founded

Photo of Patrick?

Small town Nebraska born, Colorado raised. I managed to get lucky enough to be a part of this industry, and I love it. There’s nothing I’d rather do.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Look at portfolios and choose someone that has a style you like. Don’t ask a traditional artist to do a realism piece. And once you’ve found someone you like, TRUST THEM.

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

I’m lucky enough to have a family that loves and supports me. I’ve tattooed my mother, brother, and sister-inlaw. I’ve even drawn a few things on my niece.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Hands down, the people I’ve had the privilege of working with.

I’m a professional 8-yearold, and my coloring books pay me. I get to have fun with my friends every day and make art. What could be better?

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I’ve always been an artist. My older brother and I would play Tony Hawks Pro Skater 2 on N64, and we would always make a character with tattoos. And when my brother got his first tattoo, I was sold. As soon as I turned 18, I got my first piece, and by 19, I had a full sleeve. After that, I knew this was what I wanted to do with my life.

DRAKETROBEE Artist

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours?

Absolutely. It takes hard work and commitment to get an apprenticeship. And once you have one, you’ve gotta double down and work your buttcheeks off.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do?

The thing I consistently refuse is face tattoos. However, there are exceptions. Mostly I refuse to do them on kids who are freshly 18.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing?

Tattooing has taken huge leaps in recent history, and I hope so badly that it goes even further in my lifetime. There are people doing work right now that never would’ve been possible in Jerry’s time. I can’t wait to see where we go from here. ✕

Dk TATTS, originally from the San Fernando Valley, moved to Lancaster, CA, in 2018. Opened his shop Stay Creative Tattoo with his wife in January 2021. He enjoys tattooing all styles but loves to do realism ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Too many artists to name off the top of my head. The list goes on! Where I get it from, I say any artist honestly who is consistently pushing his or herself to get better in their craft no matter what level of experience ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Most thought I was wasting my time and did not think of it as a career. Tried to push college on me, we’ll I tried; wasn’t for me! Chose the school of hard knocks. Best decision I’ve made ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Get to work with what I love to do every day, “ART” as they say, you won’t work a day in your life if you love what you do ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It wasn’t too hard. Started getting tattooed in a shop in mission hills. And the artist @strikertattoo and @anny_anarchy were cool enough to start giving me pointers before getting into a shop. Till I saw one day, they had an opening. Very thankful they gave me the opportunity!! ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) When it comes to body parts, I’m not opposed to tattooing any spot; it’s part of the job! The only time I won’t touch someone’s face is if they don’t have any tattoos! ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? The industry is growing so much. Just in the time I have been tattooing, I’ve seen a lot of change just hope people coming into it keep the culture and respect going ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t treat it as a hobby! Have respect for the craft. Get into a shop and do it the right way, and practice, practice & practice. The only person holding you back is you.

DON MADISON

Black and grey realism tattoo artist from Pennsylvania. I own and operate a private tattoo studio in Malvern, PA.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Mainly my inspiration comes from the artwork of the artist I follow online. So many amazing artists these days that are doing incredible art.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Research the artist who specializes in the style of tattoo you are looking for. Do your homework, and when you decide on the artist for you, listen to their advice on how to best do your tattoo. You picked them, so trust them!

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My wife Gina and my two sons Tyler and Dylan have been nothing but 100 percent supportive. They have had my back since day one. Although I’m not sure any of us understood how consuming it could be.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the process is actually doing the tattoo. When I’m tattooing, I’m in my own little world. The second is a happy client.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will not do racial tattoos or club tattoos, period! I won’t do face, hand, or neck tattoos on just anybody. If someone is heavily tattooed and knows what they are doing, then I will work with them.

14 Years Tattooing

Malvern, PA Location

Independent Artist B&G realism/B&G Specialty

@don_madison_tattoo Instagram

donmadisontattoos @gmail.com

donmadisontattoos .com

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? That’s a tuff one; so many new artists are just crushing it, and tattooing has advanced so much in the last 10 years that it blows my mind. I’m not really sure, but I’m looking forward to it.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Honestly, nothing that stands out. However, I do have a crazy story about how I met my 30-year-old sister for the first time while tattooing her.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Patients and hard work! This career isn’t for everyone and is definitely not easy. Long hours and hard times, but stay focused. You will get out of it what you put into it. ✕

I’m Emilie, a 21-year-old Pittsburgh native, and I’ve been tattooing for a grand and a half. The painting was my first love in the art world. I’ve been making art since I could walk. I now enjoy not only tattooing but drawing, digital art, and painting.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Everywhere honestly, whether that’s music, pin-ups, the art I see online, my coworkers, or little things I see throughout my day.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Psych yourself up to be the worse pain, then when it’s time, it will not be as bad as you thought. Do your research on artists; good tattoos aren’t cheap and cheap tattoos aren’t good. A good artist won’t belittle your ideas but will want to help give you the best tattoo possible. Also, don’t forget to eat and hydrate!

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My friends really wanted me to do it for years before I started. My family was super supportive too. Maybe one day, my dad will let me tattoo him.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Having my art permanently on someone, it’s an honor, and I’ve extremely grateful.

Artist

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I’ve always loved to do art in whatever form.

When I started to get tattooed regularly, I knew this was what I wanted to do. It’s definitely a lifestyle, not just a job.

Who are your favorite artists? Oh, I have so many, but Angelo Parente, Bobby Hiskins, Olivia Menas, Alvin Chirima, and Brooke sketchbrooke, to name a few.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I’ll do face tattoos within reason. But there’s no way I’ll do any penis or vagina tattoos.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I was just talking about this the

other day; I think there’s a possibility to have AI tattooers one day. Who knows, though?

What are your favorite things to tattoo? My favorite things to tattoo are American traditional, blackwork florals, and mirrors. ✕

1.5 Years

Tattooing

Pittsburgh, PA Location Independent Artist American Traditional Blackwork Specialty emilietattoos @gmail.com

@emilie_tattoos Instagram emiliedarleneart .com

FAMOUS

Originally from Dallas, Famous has been tattooing since 2013 and has worked with several other artists and shops in the central Texas area. Recently, he opened his own shop, Highly Authentic Tattoo, in Temple, TX. Famous is an appointment-preferred all-around artist and enjoys creating custom pieces ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My influences are wide, varying from painters, manga illustrations, other tattoo artists, and creative people in general ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My biggest supporter was my grandmother; she always pushed me to turn my passion into a career. Other friends and family thought it was not possible or an illegitimate path, and over the years, that has shifted with my growth ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My mom was covered with tattoos in the early 90s. I’ve known since I was 9 years old that I was interested in becoming a tattoo artist ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I stay

away from family portraits because, for me, they don’t give the opportunity for creative expression that I enjoy. Also, I think my handling fee is a little too expensive for clients to get private area tattoos from me ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Stay humble, be patient, and remember it takes 10,000 hours of practice to become a master of your craft, but art allows for endless growth ⸺ What motivates you? I’ve always been motivated by the challenge of continuous growth and not becoming stagnant. Also, my family, of course, is a huge motivation ⸺ What place is your favorite place to travel and tattoo? Being a traveling artist, I’ve enjoyed guest spotting at several different places, but my favorite to frequent is Compass Rose Tattoo in St. Thomas, V.I. ⸺ Is there any work that you’re most proud of? And why? My Fiancé is pretty much covered head-to-toe in my work; this has all been done since the beginning of my career to now. She is like my walking billboard with award-winning tattoos in all of my favorite styles. ✕

I’m an artist from South Texas who was traditionally taught but with an open mind and a willingness to keep improving. I’m a wife and a mother, and above all, I value honor.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Mostly the outside world. A lot of the subject matter I find myself drawn to is elemental and organic in nature. It’s even better when I can put a surreal twist to it.

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

Culturally, tattoos were not looked at as something acceptable, so initially, they were cynical. However, as time goes on, the industry has seen some leaps and bounds, and now people are more aware of the possibilities of what we can put on skin. Despite it all, I have been fortunate to have certain friends and family that supported me from the beginning.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? It’s hard to choose. On the one hand, there is the satisfaction of pulling off a gamechanging piece. It feels like a million bucks. On another, sometimes you end up having a conversation with a client that may really help them in some way, or maybe the session was cathartic for them in another way. Being a part of healing for someone is an unexpected but amazing part of the equation.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Looking at tattoos; they are the most visceral representation of what a person may have inside. It’s the most apparent form of self-expression, and you have to commit to one. They’re permanent, after all. It’s literally wearing your heart on your sleeve.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I’m excited and hopeful for what’s ahead in the industry. It’s changed so much even in the time I’ve been in it. As technology gets better, we will be introduced to more apps, machines, and technical skills. The best thing we can do is learn from history, be in the present, and embrace the future. Change is always intimidating, but you can’t hurt your work by adding more tools to your bag. ✕

FEVERDREAM TATTOOS

FRANKIE SKETCH

Specializing in whimsical surrealism, Frankie Sketch’s designs emanate joy and wonder while expressing the vibrant spirit of creativity. Frankie uses inspiration from video games and film to fuel his passion for telling visual stories ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My drawing inspiration is split between movies, video games, and music. However, my biggest inspiration is my wife and two pugs, Lola and Buffy. They gas me with creativity and joy ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Most friends and family have been super supportive. Not just letting me tattoo them during the early stages of my apprenticeship but sharing my tattoo journey while inspiring growth and creativity ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is meeting new people and creating art with my client that will promote positive feelings every time they see It ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I really enjoyed the fact that tattoos are meant to be permanent. There is limited space on the human body,

so every inch is so special ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I’ve heard some horror stories about apprenticeships, so I feel mine went smoothly. I had two mentors that really pushed creativity, client relations, and running a clean shop. I made mistakes, and they made sure I learned from them. Sometimes it’s tough love with a slice of humble pie, but it’s about improving in a positive manner ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I do my best to let adults be adults, but I am not putting your gf/bf name on your face ⸺ What do you enjoy doing when you’re not tattooing people?

When I am not tattooing, I love to paint, go to the theater and watch horror movies, and play a wide variety of video games. I am also big into Funko Collectables ⸺ What has been your favorite tattoo in your career so far? My favorite tattoo so far would probably be the Frankie Sketch Bear Pig sticker tattoo. Whenever a person loves a design you created so much to get it tattooed, especially when that design has my face in it, it becomes extra special in my book. ✕

GABRIELLE ELISE

Gabrielle Elise is the co-owner of Bombshell Body Art in Janesville, Wisconsin. She has a passion for black and grey floral as well as stylized realism. Gabrielle has been tattooing since 2017 and has been a co-owner of Bombshell Body Art since 2022.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I gain most of my inspiration from my clients as well as my fellow artists. My co-workers, Heather and Lie, are both amazing artists and help inspire me every day.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) If you are getting your first tattoo, make sure to research your artist and get to know their style and personality. It is important for you to like their work and have an artist that values you.

6 Years Tattooing

Janesville, WI

Location

Independent Artist

Black and grey floral Stylized realism Specialty

@ink_fox_art Instagram inkfoxartistry @gmail.com

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of being a tattoo artist is working alongside other artists and creating meaningful tattoos (and experiences) for my clients.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I have had an interest in tattoos from a young age. I have always loved the concept of being able to wear art on your skin and carry your life stories with you.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I refuse hateful or oppressive tattoos. I also don’t tattoo genitalia.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I think

we will continue to see advancements in the equipment and design side of tattooing.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? As a new artist, you should always try to improve and learn from your clients as well as your fellow artists. We are never done learning.

What is your design process? I have a collaborative design process with my clients. During the consult, we go over their reference material, then start a rough sketch. The design is then refined after the consult and approved by the client before their appointment ✕

GENE BUDOWSKI

I’ve been tattooing for over a decade now in MD. I specialize in custom large-scale Japanese and neo (modern) traditional. My goal for each and every tattoo is for it to last a lifetime. I was taught to be wellrounded and that I should be able to do almost everything that walks through the door. I pride myself in the fact that I take the time to draw each and every tattoo that selects me for their project. I have been blessed to be able to travel the country tattooing from MD, Philly, Florida, Vegas, and even Puerto Rico! ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? At first, my family and friends were not about it! I had like 2-3 that actually supported me. Tattooing is for sure one of the hardest things I’ve had to endure in life. I thought about quitting many times, but I pushed through. No one starts off good. But if you set goals, hold yourself accountable, and seek the knowledge to better yourself. You will be unstoppable. We live in a world where knowledge is at our fingertips ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Yea, for sure. I don’t tattoo private areas or faces; unless you are legit covered. That’s kind of a way of passage thing. Too many kids these days are running around

with only a hand tattoo or a face tattoo. Just looks dumb, haha. Back in the day, you had to earn those areas. We need to bring back integrity to this industry. Nowadays there are so many shops; you can just go to each one until you find someone who will do it… sadly ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I think tattooing is going to keep evolving. It’s only been “legal” for about 30 years. Ink has come a long way, so tattoos can actually last a lifetime. Tattooing back in the day was more about street rep/ rand by the mob. So back then, the tattoos weren’t nearly as good. So, I can’t wait to see what the future holds ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The most crucial advice I can give to someone who is trying to get into this industry is three things. In order to succeed in anything in life, you need to first have goals, set them, and then crush them. Second, you need drive/motivation. You got to be hungry to seek knowledge from people/books. Get tattooed by the people you look up to. Nine times out of ten, they will guide you. Go to the library to get figure drawing books. Third, hold yourself accountable! Take constructive criticism, be adaptable, and CARE! ✕

BABY!

Photographed by ANDREW M. GLEASON

MUSIC IS EVERYTHING TO ME, SECOND TO MY BOYS, RHYTHM & ART.

I am a pop/alternative singer from Arlington, Texas. I moved around a lot as a child and developed a therapeutic relationship with music and tattoos. I love creating every form of art, from music to painting to sculpting to fashion design. I have goals to write and direct movies in the near future, mostly horror and animated films. My inspirations are Harley Quinn, Bettie Page, Marilyn Monroe, Rob Zombie, and Sailor Moon ⸺ Where did the name Baby Goth come from? My name, “Baby Goth,” is related to my love for Rob Zombie horror films. His wife, Sherri Moon, plays a character named Baby Firefly in House of 1000 corpses, The Devil’s Rejects, and 3 from Hell. I’ve always enjoyed this

BABY GOTH

character because she is both sweet and cynical, and I drew inspiration from her. I have an attraction to contrast and oxymorons. I relate so much to both light and dark elements within my personality and my style. I also was a warped tour kid, always dressed in hardcore band tee’s, dark clothing, and skinny jeans. My playlist was mostly Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson, Korn, and the Cure. I was very much part of the goth culture growing up, so “Goth” seemed like the perfect contrast to my “Baby.” ⸺ How old were you when you got your first tattoo? What was it? My first tattoo was my 16th birthday present from my mother and older sister. I got cheetah print on my shoulder.

Canyou describeyour creative music process?

I’LL BRING A FEW BLUNTS AND SOME WINE TO THE STUDIO WITH MY TEDDY BEAR OF CHOICE…

I had been dealing with my newly diagnosed anxiety and depression disorder and had a sudden urge to ‘release my inner animal’ and overcome my introverted personality ⸺ Do people treat you differently because of your tattoos? Growing up in Texas, I was a shock factor everywhere I went. In high school, I spent a lot of time in detention for having my tattoo visible because it was considered a distraction. Now it’s mostly older people or “Karens” who are taken aback by my image ⸺ Who are your favorite tattoo artist(s) to get tattooed by? My baby’s father, TattooxDaddy, did most of my tattoos. SadAmishTattooer is one of my favorite artists I’ve worked with ⸺ What is your favorite tattoo that you have? My favorite tattoo is the butterfly on my forehead. To me, my mental illnesses represent my own cocoon or limitations, while the butterfly is my mental freedom and peace after breaking from my limits. As a kid, I used to chase butterflies in the field at my grandma’s, so they felt special to me ⸺ Where do you get your tattoo ideas from? All of my tattoos are inspired by the good moments from my childhood, combinations of my personality, or motivational reminders so that every time I see them, I get a sense of peace and confidence in who I am ⸺ What’s the longest tattoo session you’ve ever sat through? My longest session was about six hours on my top thigh. It wasn’t too bad, but I get anxious sitting in the same place for too long ⸺ What is the most painful tattoo that you have? My most painful pieces were also the shortest in time. I would say the Sailor Moon on my palm or the symbols above my nails ⸺ Do you have any tattoos that you regret? I don’t regret any tattoos. Even if I wouldn’t choose to get them right now in life, they are still a part of my story ⸺ Do you have the most tattoos out of your family & friends? Yes. My older sister, Staci, is pretty heavily tattooed as well ⸺ What’s the next tattoo that you plan to get? I have nearly every open part of my body already planned out. I would love to get my chest piece next, cherub angels and filigree designs, piano keys, and three roses; one red rose, one made of 100 dollar bills, and the other slightly on fire ⸺ What’s the wildest thing someone has said or asked you about your tattoos? I’ve had strangers tell me my artwork is the most beautiful thing they’ve ever seen, and I’ve had strangers tell me I’ve ruined my face and my future. It’s all across the board ⸺ Do people look at you as crazy for being a mom with tattoos? Some people look at me like I’m an alien or like I’ve stolen someone’s child. There is also a very large community of moms with alternative styles that are very supportive and have a lot of love for each other ⸺ How did you get into music? Music has always been a big part of my heart and my core. I was very introverted and non-verbal when my emotions grew too heavy. I found I could write better than I speak when feeling passionate, so I began writing poetry constantly. I started singing my poems, learning guitar, then piano, then drums. By the time I was 16, I could play multiple instruments, including the ukulele, and I learned how to work Garage Band. I would record myself in my closet, make my own beats, and share my work on Myspace and Youtube. After I got a taste of being an artist, I couldn’t stop even if I wanted to ⸺ Tell us about your new music. My unreleased music is very different from my experimental EP, Babyface, and my first EP, Babygoth. I have developed my sound and my talent as both a singer and a lyricist. My new music is very deep and vulnerable. I am now writing and singing about heartbreak and my mental illness rather than just “flexy” lifestyle lyrics, but dressed in pop and alternative elements with a sprinkle of trap and sometimes country influence ⸺ Can you describe your creative music process? My creative process is always the same. I’ll bring a few blunts and some wine to the studio with my teddy bear of choice clutched under my arm for comfort. I have started working with some really great writers, Sara Diamond and Josephina, and new producers, Twiin Towers and Eli, whom I’m very comfortable cooking up and creating with. If I ever have writer’s block, a nature day or a nice cozy shroom mental vacation will set me back in motion ⸺ What are some non-music related hobbies outside of mom life? Aside from music and motherhood, my hobbies are mostly art oriented. I love drawing, painting, and sculpting. I also enjoy RPG video games as

well as binge-watching sci-fi movies, conspiracy theories, and horror movies. I also have a goal to write and direct my own horror films one day, as well as write my own books, so I spend a lot of time writing screenplays and tweaking my stories to get them ready for the public in the near future ⸺ Do you have a favorite song that you’ve made so far? I have a good handful of favorite songs that I’ve made, though they are new and unreleased. “Like The Boys” and “Sweet Saddle” are two of them. One is about feeling like I relate more to boys than females, as well as matching male energy when it comes to dating. The other is a sexy song with a slight country twist. Both are something to look out for in the next year! ⸺ If you could do a song with anyone two people dead or alive, who would they be?  If I could do a song with two people, alive or dead, it would probably be Nat King Cole and Marilyn Monroe. Jack Harlow, Baby Keem, Tyler the Creator, ASAP Rocky, or Chance, the rapper, would be fire too. It’s too difficult a choice for me; I enjoy and respect a lot of music artists ⸺ What made you start your clothing line? I have notebooks filled with clothing designs and drawings just waiting to be brought to life. I met a company called Shop Moox, sent them some of my drawings and design sketches, and their team brought them to life for me. DeadDolls is the name I chose for my clothing company, another sweet and cynical contrast derived from my personality and interests. I’ve always loved designing clothes, and before my music career, I would often sketch designs that my mother would sew together and create for me to wear in my photoshoots. ✕

SCHOOL,INHIGHISPENTALOTOFTIMEFORINDETENTION TATTOOHAVINGMY BECAUSEVISIBLE CONSIDEREDITWAS DISTRACTION.A

Do people treat you differently because of your tattoos?

GIULLIA B.

Brazilian tattoo artist based in Los Angeles, CA ⸺ Do you have any other art mediums that you like? Oil painting, acrylic painting, watercolors, charcoal, graffiti, etc. I can say that I grew up trying most types of art… I love painting (oil, acrylic, watercolor), drawing with pencils, charcoal, or even sculpting clay or carving plaster… music production is also something I love ⸺ What do you think has been your biggest accomplishment as an artist has been? This career completely changed my life; I was able to move to California after six months; I’ve met amazing people, and had so many experiences, so it’s hard to choose one… I think the whole journey was amazing, and I’m constantly working to go further! ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with clients?

I love trying to get as close to how my clients imagine their tattoos.. and it’s really satisfying to be able to do that! But also, not everyone can explain what they are thinking or imagining, so sometimes I have to read between the lines to figure out what they’re trying to get; I love using some methods I’ve learned for that too!

Every day is a different person, a new history… gives you the chance to learn a lot! ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that

you’ve ever done? I love doing animals, so I actually have two favorites… one is a tiger that covers the full stomach, and the second is a mix of realism and geometry; it’s a white dog, blind in one eye, and I was able to represent that in the tattoo eternalizing my lovely client pet ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? I think the biggest obstacle is the artist’s own mind. sometimes we can be very critical of our work… we’ll see flaws no one else sees, sometimes not even post a tattoo for something super small and irrelevant, and a few months later, see the same image and think, “Oh wait, this is great; why didn’t I like this before?!”

Or even have difficulties in pricing the work, not giving it the right value it deserves… I’ve shared experiences with different artists I worked with, and it’s actually very common and inevitable ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? I always maintain my schedule in my free time so I can have my hobbies and things that inspire me and keep me interested. So I have a little switch in my head… whenever I’m working, I’m 100% there, and in my free time, I am 100% enjoying that moment. ✕

Artist

Hey, I’m Dahlia Moth, a Los Angeles-based tattoo artist with a professional background in fine arts. Originally from Vancouver, Canada, now a permanent resident at the California Dream, specializing in dark, macabre realism tattoos ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I was working at a tattoo shop in Venice on a hot summer day when a man came in and asked for a tattoo on his butt cheek. I had him lower his shorts as I began to place the stencil when the most horrendous scent hit my nostrils like a freight train. Considering before I even sat him down in the chair, he was sweating like he had a snowsuit on in the middle of July, I should have seen it coming. The design was fairly detailed, and I knew I was going to be stuck in the danger zone for longer than I would have preferred, so I rubbed a little bit of A&D ointment underneath my nose to try and mask the smell, which did help a little. This man’s swamp ass could have exterminated small rodents. The tattoo turned out really nice, though, and he did tip me well, so it could have been worse ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with clients? I really value

the time that I spend with my clients, as tattooing is an extremely intimate experience. You’re in each other’s personal space for so long; there’s a lot of trust that goes into that. I love hearing all the stories that my clientele trust to tell me about. As an artist, you really get to peek into the minds of every person you tattoo.

I hear the good, the bad, and the ugly doing my job. By just listening and letting my clientele know that they’re being heard and in a safe space, I’m able to be a better person and have more compassion and empathy towards other people as well as myself ⸺ How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Honestly, that’s something that I’m still trying to figure out to this day. When you make your passion your career, it’s difficult to separate the two. I’ll tell myself that I’m taking the day off just for me, but I still find myself drawing as it was my hobby before it was my career. Working at the California Dream has definitely allowed me to take more time for my personal life, as we all go on little adventures together as a tattoo shop regularly. We are like a little tattoo family. ✕

The California Dream Resident Artist Los Angeles, CA Location

Dark Macabre Realism Specialization Instagram

OXANA

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Take your time in planning ahead and avoid last-minute ideas. Work closely with an artist and bounce ideas back and forth to help create a design that you truly love ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

When I saw a photo of a large realistic tiger portrait on someone’s back, I couldn’t believe that it was possible for a tattoo to look so real on the skin, which I believe is the most difficult canvas. I looked at the industry from a different perspective ⸺ How was your apprenticeship? Was it hard to get one? I was lucky to be accepted at the first tattoo shop I called. I remember how I was so excited about the opportunity of breaking into the industry that I couldn’t sleep at night. I started helping out at the shop and studying the tattoo process. The first tattoo I actually did was in another shop where I could focus on developing my art. It helped me build confidence in my ability and skills. I am grateful to everyone who helped me during my first steps

⸺ What do you think your biggest accomplishment as an

artist has been? I think my biggest accomplishment is still ahead. I will be very proud of myself when I develop a unique style I specialize in. I am working on my own recognizable style within black and grey realism ⸺ 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 process of learning tattooing will probably become even easier and faster with new technologies and loads of free information. It will keep attracting more people who want to try tattooing. I learned that you have to be special and create something no one else can do to make people want to fly across the world for you. And that is my plan ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with clients? I love when clients come back and become your regular. It makes me feel good as an artist, and our tattooing sessions become even more fun ⸺ Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? The challenging part is being your own promoter, sponsor, manager, creator, and editor. ✕

CACHO

Mexican Self thought artist ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) First you need to do a GREAT research and find the right artist for you. Make sure he does the work you want to get.

And then The best way for me to go in for your first tattoo is searching for the right meaning, and the right placement, avoid going for “hidden” parts f the body just because is your first one, trust the artist you chose and hear his opinion. Having a great meaning and the right placement will make your first tattoo experience the best ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family has always been the most supportive towards my work, and funny thing my mom was the one that actually pushed me to pursue a career in the tattoo world ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? [The] moment when we both are sharing so much energy and being truly honest with each other, me creating and putting all my effort in their skin, and they opening themselves and being vulnerable in the chair. I’ve seen any

sort type of reactions and it’s always a warm feeling to se them really happy after they leave the shop ⸺ Who and what influences you to create your work? I get inspired by nature, by sounds, emotions or even music. I like to get inspiration from my surroundings ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc) I don’t do any tattoos that go against any religion, any race or are discriminatory ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? So much! Tattoos are an art form now, and everything is going around that, machines are more precise, needles are more delicate and I can’t wait to see and be part of what is coming ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience and what was it? I’ve had clients that made me change the design 20 times and at the end they left the shop without getting it, clients that ... start telling you how to draw, all type of things ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Focus on one path, one style and master it. Practice practice practice and fall in love in what you are doing. ✕

GREG COUNARD

Happily married with 3 beautiful dogs. Own and run a studio with my wife, Alyssa. I’ve been creating art as far back as I can remember ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Comic books, graffiti, life friction, mycology, science fiction, old audio dramas, cartoons, music, skateboarding, sculpting, travel, psychedelia, psychology, philosophy, introspection, intuition, and a lot of love ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love watching it all come together. When the story starts writing itself, and you enter into that sweet flow state of creating… that’s my favorite part ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My apprenticeship was pretty brief and weak. I mopped floors, dealt with the trash, made needles, did food runs, and made line drawings. In the end, I was canned after about 4 months, so another apprentice could take over. The apprenticeship was free and got my foot in the door of the industry, if even just barely. I was pretty bummed for a while, and my first handful of years tattooing were extremely tough and chaotic trying to teach myself. It took a lot of hard work/persistence/practicing my craft, and working on myself to get ahead ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would

refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will absolutely 100% refuse to do any sort of hate-related tattoos, whether it’s symbols or words or just images that portray hatred towards others ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Be humble, stay hungry, draw every single day, study art every day, gain personal artistic perspective, and work on personal art theory. To get the best running start into tattooing, you should really do a proper apprenticeship to keep from prolonging/limiting growth and having to learn the hard way. Choose who you mentor under wisely ⸺ Any parting words? I think back to being that insecure 15-year-old tattooing myself with some shitty jail house machine in my bedroom late at night with the door locked so my parents wouldn’t know to now being 40 with a successful business with my awesome wife, who I also met through tattooing. It’s hard to believe it’s been 25 years…I’ve gotten to explore, exercise, and practice my creativity.Hone in on, sculpt down, and transform my insecurities. I’ve gotten the chance to help others do the same thing while walking them through the process, and I’m really so very grateful for that opportunity. ✕

HANNAH KAY

My name is Hannah Kay! I am an artist in Wilmington, North Carolina. I work with an amazing group of artists at Invoke Tattoo & Art Gallery. I went to school for Graphic Design, worked for a bit, then made the big decision to quit so I could make the jump. I have only been tattooing professionally for a year and a few months. I was a self-taught artist until I found my mentor, Kurt Elkins, who helped me fine-tune my skill.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get most of my inspiration from Ryan and Matt Murray in Salem, MA. Cutty Bage in Morgantown, NC, and I also get a lot of ideas from books. Mostly “Crap Hound” books. And the season of Halloween!

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Do your research on the artist you want to get the

1.5 Years

Tattooing

Wilmington, NC Location

Independent Artist

Spooky Illustrative Fine Line Specialty

invoke.hannahkay @gmail.com

@Hannahkaytattoos Instagram

invoketattoo.com/ hannah-kay-wilson website

tattoo done by. Do not go with a cheaper option! You get what you pay for.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is detailing the tattoo. Getting to do fine-line detailing on big pieces.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My dad used to bring home tattoo magazines for me when I was a preteen. When I got older, I started a blog for tattoos. I was so obsessed with what people could create on their skin. I got my first one a day after I turned 18.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Getting my apprenticeship was extremely easy. The art I presented was all paintings that had nothing to do with tattoos. My mentor trusted me right from the start. He saw some tattoos I had done on myself and let me join his shop. I tattooed fake skin in the afternoons after watching him tattoo for a couple of hours. He basically steered me in the right direction while giving me a space to work in.

What is the most challenging about what you do? Skin types and areas. Everyone is so different. It could be easy peasy in one area and extremely challenging in another, even if it’s the same subject matter. ✕

HANNAH PEARL COLBURN

Born in Phoenix, Arizona; I grew up around different parts of Missouri. I’ve always been an artist and have dabbled in different creative projects. For hobbies, I do acrylic painting and photography. I am a published model, photographer, and poet. But my passion is tattooing. I love going to conventions and networking with other awesome artists.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Everywhere all around me. It could be art or music. It could be by someone’s actions or by the ever-changing natural world around us. It could be from a dream. I use everything around me to reshape the world around me with my art.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Don’t get a small tattoo. Get something you will continue to love down the road. It hurts, but it’s not that bad, or we wouldn’t all have so many!

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were supportive and not at all surprised.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? It was not difficult to get an apprenticeship, but it was difficult to find the proper one. I had several bad experiences trying to get into the industry; harassment, theft of materials and clients, less than proper work environments.

But regardless of the struggles, I found a legit place to teach me eventually and have been tattooing ever since.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t tattoo genitals, but boobies and butts are ok. I will tattoo the face, but only if they are heavily tattooed already or have their own business. I won’t tattoo gang-related images, but I’ll cover them up.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? You will learn more than one right way to do things and plenty of wrong ways. Learn from each person who’s willing to teach you and listen to them. If their work is good, then try doing it their way. If their work is bad, you learn what not to do. Each person will have their preferred way

11 Years Tattooing

Wentzville, MO Location

Independent Artist

Cover ups, Mandala, Sacred geometry, & Floral sleevework Specialty @tattoosbyvoodoo Instagram missrevolution.blue @gmail.com

of doing things. You will develop a style that is a compilation of the styles you learned from others that work for you. ✕

As a 25-year-old artist from the city of Toronto, I look forward to breaking barriers within the tattoo community and helping others do the same along the way. I work at a private studio where I focus on creating safe spaces and inclusive experiences within the tattoo community ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) The best advice I can give is to be sure to research your artist and take your time. You’re making a big, permanent decision, and whoever you let grace your skin should be someone you respect and trust as a person and an artist, and someone you connect with What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love that my job allows others to express themselves, whether that’s through healing, memories, or sharing stories. We have a big responsibility as artists because we’re almost like translators, not only for our own ideas but for our clients’ ideas as well. I also love how unique the experience is. You’re basically giving away a piece of your-

self forever ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Tattooing wasn’t something I was always interested in. In fact, I once said I would never get tattoos. That changed once I started to face my own hardships in life, and I was looking for an outlet. Someone encouraged me to give tattooing a go being that there is a need for more representation within the tattoo community. I quickly started to realize that I was helping to break down barriers within the industry, and I’ve loved it ever since ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? There are so many routes to get into tattooing, but if you can, try to get an apprenticeship with an artist, you trust and admire, and don’t rush the process. Find some trusted friends or family who will let you practice so you can get more familiar with your technique and find your comfort as well. There will be times when you want to give up because the work is much harder than it looks, but believe in yourself all the way. ✕

IMARRI TOWNSEND

Independent Artist Toronto & New York Location

4 Years Tattooing

B&G Realism / B&G Surrealism Specialization @Mars.ink Instagram

IRON GUN LEXX

I am a Mexican-American tattoo artist in Midvale, Utah. I grew up with an affinity for art and have been creating things ever since I can remember. Art has always been an outlet for me, as my childhood was pretty hectic. My love for tattooing translates through my work and connection with my clients ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My grandpa, for sure. He was a tattoo artist back in the 70s. I remember him teaching me how to draw Snoopy on napkins; we’d always try to draw him doing different things, like him dancing or smoking a cigarette. He would always ask what new art I was bringing him. He instilled a lot of confidence in my art from a young age ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I came from a religious family, so I was terrified to tell anyone that I had started an apprenticeship. Once I finally told everyone, I was pretty surprised at how supportive they all were. They’ve always wanted me to do something with my art ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Being able to take someone’s idea and translate it into the design they want feels like magic; I love it!

⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? It’s interesting to see how AI is advancing into different industries, so I can see it moving toward the tattoo industry. The discussion on whether or not artists would tattoo a design created by an AI is interesting to me, but I believe clients will always come to us for our particular style and application of the tattoo. Half of the tattooing experience is the human connection you make with your client, and an AI just can’t replicate that ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? This industry can be pretty cutthroat, but there’s always room to improve that. Draw every day, and never let anyone make you believe there isn’t space for you. ✕

My name is Isabella Chaves; I’m 26 years old, born and raised in Cali, Colombia. I’ve been tattooing for about five years now, and I specialize in black and grey realism tattoos on a larger scale. In 2019 I opened my first tattoo studio with another artist, and in 2022 I opened my own studio Bella Mafia in Milton, Ontario.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family was in shock; I think from such a big transition from psychology to tattooing, they didn’t understand how far tattooing has come! I am so grateful for them being open to letting me show them what it’s truly all about nowadays. They are very proud of me, and I am so lucky to have their support.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is definitely getting to meet new people with new ideas that genuinely love my style and want to work together to create something unique and beautiful.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t even think about tattooing until you have a strong drawing and painting portfolio. This will help you transition to tattooing smoothly and become an overall better artist.

Did you always know you wanted to become a tattoo artist? No, I knew I wanted to do art,

but I didn’t know how; I never even considered tattooing. This leads me to go to university for psychology with a plan to become an art therapist and, that way, be able to include art in my career somehow. This obviously didn’t work out the way I planned it, and I thankfully found tattooing years later.

What are your strengths and weaknesses when tattooing in black and gray? My strengths would be any type of portrait and creating clean and soft shades while maintaining my dark style of tattooing. My weaknesses would be transitions from tattoo to tattoo, but it’s something I’m slowly becoming better at by practicing and planning out background and fillers prior to getting started on a project.

If you could tattoo anything right now, what would it be? I would love to do an entire leg sleeve in a specific theme that includes a lot of portraits, like nature or a mobster theme. ✕

ISABELLA.INK

5 Years

Tattooing

Milton, ON Location

Independent Artist

Black and grey Realism Specialty

@Isabella.ink Instagram

isabella.inkbookings @gmail.com

Isabellachaves .com

I am relatively new to tattooing and have been apprenticing at Art & Soul in New Glarus, WI. It’s truly been a dream come true and feels surreal. I studied art and elementary education at the University of Wisconsin, Green Bay, and never thought I would get the opportunity I had with the shop. Getting to tattoo someone is more than just ink and skin; you’re a friend, a therapist, and everything in between. It’s a level of trust between the client and artist that, in the end, makes for beautiful art and a lifelong moment. Our shop is owned by Beth Speer, who also has a shop in Florida, Washed Ashore. It means the world that they took me in and helped me further my career, they became my family, and I’m very happy to be learning from them all. Tattooing is more than a job to me; it’s something I’m passionate about, and I am happy to be able to be where I’m at in my career ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The clients. I feel as though we’ve made the shop a place for people to be at home. Sometimes I’m just working with them on a tattoo, and sometimes I’m a therapist. Giving people the space to be themselves, to vent, to talk about life, and leave feeling happy with the experience and the art is my favorite part. You’re not only the clients’ artist but their friend too ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I submitted applications to multiple shops for an apprenticeship position. I started getting discouraged because not many shops around me were willing to take on apprentices. I heard about Art & Soul and decided to try again. The next day I got an email from our owner Beth. She sent my information over to Erik, and I met with him in person and started the apprenticeship later that week. With previous experience, they had me bring in friends for me to tattoo so they could see my technique, and I was able to begin booking very early on. I can’t ever express enough to the whole team how much this opportunity means to me. They’ve become my friends and family, and I’m thankful to be able to work in the shop among such talented artists. While I still have much to learn, I’m happy it’s at Art & Soul ⸺ HWhat is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Practice using different styles for your art. Be flexible and take advice and criticism; it will help you grow and learn more as you go on. Don’t be discouraged, do your research, and ask artists how they got into tattooing and their experiences, and you’ll learn a lot. ✕

justanotherhitw

Shop Profile

JUST ANOTHER HOLE IN THE WALL TATTOO

PENDLETON, SC

Just Another Hole in the Wall Tattoo is a female-owned and operated studio located in Pendelton, SC, where the overall experience is just as important as the tattoo itself. The artists here create a dream tattoo for their clients by offering a one-on-one consultation that allows them to create a piece that reflects individuality and personalized ideas. During this process and the entirety of the tattoo, inclusion and comfort are their main priorities. They boast a safe and sanitary environment where the client can feel comfortable and at ease from start to finish.

Starting this year,

they will also be looking forward to regular guest spots by fellow artists in the industry. The studio’s vibe is one of community, self-expression, safety, and acceptance. Each member truly loves that they have the opportunity to constantly meet new people and maintain long-term relationships with each and every one of their clients.

Over the years, it has been evident that the experience associated with getting a tattoo is forever tied to the tattoo itself. The staff wants clients to leave with an incredible piece of art they can forever be proud of, as well as an

extremely positive view of the time they spent at the studio (however long or short that may be). They love the unique opportunity they have to learn about each and every new person they encounter, and they pride themselves on making sure each individual is as comfortable as possible. Over the past five years, the studio has grown tremendously. Through multiple apprenticeships and new managers/team members (some of whom have become tattoo artists themselves), there is no stopping the studio from its forward growth. Jessie, the owner, has been

tattooing for 13 years and has been overwhelmed with gratitude for the continued support and love from the community and every person and artist that has been integral in the studio’s expansion. Now, about to enter her sixth year owning the studio, she has purchased a much larger location that will open its doors within the next few months. With this larger location comes new opportunities, as well as a search for more talented tattoo artists to come to join the team. The current crew is excited by the prospect of expanding and welcoming more like-minded individuals

Jessie Silva Owner/Artist @jsilvatattoos Instagram

who are just as eager to express their creativity through custom pieces of permanent art.

Just Another Hole in the Wall is beyond appreciative to all those who have walked through the doors over the past six years, especially the artists who have grown with the studio and moved on to exciting opportunities, staff members who helped to shape policies, and clients that continue to bring their great ideas and positivity to every appointment. They all ensure new and beautiful memories will forever be etched into the history of the shop every day. ✕

MOREY

I am 30 years old; I have been tattooing since I was 16 ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get a lot of inspiration from living in Colorado and traveling around as much as I can ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Drink water and eat more the day before your appointment, not 15 minutes before you go in. Eating or drinking immediately before your tattoo can cause some unpleasant side effects ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I think at first, they were not 100% comfortable with it, but they have always supported me anyways. I am very lucky for that ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Because of my clients, my art has traveled around the world! As an artist, I think that is the ultimate goal ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? It really amazes me that it is even possible to put artwork on the skin- it is honestly magi-

cal, and I’ll never get tired of it ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I apprenticed more than once because I wanted to learn more than one style. It was a lot of effort, but thankfully it was worth it! ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Devil/Satanic tattoos because after tattooing for this long, I’ve become a little bit superstitious, and I’m not afraid to admit it. I think it’s a bad idea ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I think that there will be many more changes and innovations in the next decade than there have been in the last hundred years. I am excited to be a part of it ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? All I have to say is: if you get an ankle tattoo, please wash your feet first. THANKS <3 ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t practice on real skin, even your own, until you have an actual mentor! ✕

I APPRENTICED MORE THAN ONCE BECAUSE I WANTED TO LEARN MORE THAN ONE STYLE.

I started drawing when I could hold a pencil. From the pressure of friends, I started tattooing in 1994 when I was 20 years old in South Lake Tahoe, CA, and other than observing and asking a lot of questions; I am self-taught. I have a bachelor’s degree in fine art/illustration from The Laguna College of Art and Design. My wife of 23 years, Lisa, has been my number-one supporter, fan, and driving force for nearly my whole career.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I was initially inspired by the art I had never seen before until I saw my first tattoo magazine. Aaron Cain, Guy Aitchison, and Little Vinnie Meyers were big for me. Now there are so many great artists who all inspire me. I’m also inspired by drag racing, Hotrod, and off-road racing culture.

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

To do their research and find a quality artist that suits them and let that artist do their thing. And don’t try to stuff a hundred pounds of shit into a 20-pound bag. Don’t overthink it.

28 Years Tattooing Reno, NV Location

JASON DUGAN

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My friends were all for it and supported me, and they are still wearing my first tattoos… poor souls, haha. My parents grew into the idea over time as I showed them it was an authentic career for an artist.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t tattoo minors, private areas, gang or race-related tattoos, or anything I feel is going to negatively affect the client’s future.

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

@jasonduganart Instagram

jasonduganart @yahoo.com

To observe every artist you can, listen to their advice, and never quit learning and absorbing. I believe there are no masters, but there are many experts; if you think you’ve learned all you can, then you are sorely mistaken. To stay humble and treat every job with equal respect and devotion. Always give your best, which may be different from day to day, but as long as you are always giving, it is the respect the client deserves. ✕

I am Jay Han, a tattoo artist from South Korea. I have eight years of experience. I mainly work with black and gray, oriental style, brush strokes, and fine lines. It’s an honor to have the opportunity to show you guys.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I like oriental paintings, and I get a good vibe when I see them. I try to mix this style with black and gray.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My first shop owner was nice to me, so I spent my apprenticeship a little more comfortably.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t do the fingers and around the anus.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I’m not sure, but I’m always trying to do better tattoos and continue to work out for my health.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? My first tattoo, I messed up, so I did a cover-up a year later.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Self-confidence! You can do it; just go for it!

What is it like to have a tattoo business in Korea? It’s okay to do tattoos in Korea these days. But it’s still illegal. It’s such a funny situation. In South Korea, needles are still illegal because only doctors can use them. That’s why Korea doesn’t have a price regulation or system for

tattoos, so sometimes it’s confusing; but these days, the tattoo business is quite open, so it’s okay.

Do you want to experience the tattoo business in other countries? Of course, if it’s possible! There are many talented tattoo artists in Korea. If we can do it legally abroad, it would be a great opportunity for many of us. This is my final goal. What do you want to say to a new tattooist? In our profession, the experience cannot be skipped! So honestly, if you do what you have to do and try hard, good days will come! No jealousy, no envy, love, and peace, you know what I mean? ✕

8 Years Tattooing

Ulsan Ulsan Korea (Republic of) Location

Independent Artist

B&G Oriental style, Brush strokes Specialty

jayhan.tattoo @gmail.com

@jayhan_tattoo Instagram

JAY MORALES

Chicago kid growing up in Salt lake! Afro-Latino background and proud! 25 years old ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get a lot of my inspiration from literally anything I see, from movies to nature, to anime. I always have a way of turning anything into inspiration, honestly ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They thought it was great! They were all super supportive and definitely pushed me to follow my dreams. They have seen me do art all throughout my life, so it wasn’t a surprise when I told them I wanted to pursue this career ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The best part about my job is making the clients happy by decorating their bodies! A lot of the time, people feel more confident when they get tattoos, and I love being able to contribute to that happiness! I enjoy interacting with every individual because I feel like I always learn so much from every person. I love being able to create things from scratch or taking someone’s thought and making it into reality! ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? What sparked my interest was realizing that when tattooing, you get to be yourself and be creative! It’s one of the most creative and expressive arts there is in this day and age. When I realized I could be creative and expressive, I immediately fell in love ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I luckily have never had a bad experience, so I’m super grateful for that! ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The advice I can give is don’t get stuck in your ways. You can learn from anything. Whether it’s a “bad” tattoo or a great tattoo, you can always learn something new daily if you allow yourself to. Learn from your peers. You can always learn from how they do things, and maybe it’s not how you do it, but you can find an even better way to do it. Be openminded and stay creative! Don’t force your art. Always let the art come to you. Everything starts from an idea, and nothing is a dumb idea. Most importantly, have fun with it! Remember why you chose to get into this career. ✕

JENNA SZERSZEN Artist

My name is Jenna Szerszen. I’ve been tattooing for 5 years and co-own a studio called Prairie State Tattoo Company in Carpentersville, IL. I love cats, drag queens, and naps ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) If you’re looking to get your first tattoo, you should do your research. We are lucky to have social media, so take advantage of it! ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family was very supportive. My partner, Andrew, actually helped me get my apprenticeship because I was too scared to ask. My parents are my biggest fans. My dad has a full sleeve from me, and my mom has one of the first tattoos I have ever done! ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is developing relationships with my client. It allows my clients to be completely comfortable with me and trust me with my vision for a design. I love seeing familiar faces come through the door and enjoying our time together while they get tattooed ⸺ What was it that initially

sparked your interest in tattooing? My grandpa had a pin-up girl tattoo on his calf from when he was in the Navy. I wanted to be able to create pieces like that ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I always tell people I was very lucky with my apprenticeship. I collected pieces from the same artist for a while, and I just had to be patient until he was ready to take on an apprentice. My apprenticeship was pretty standard. Cleaning, answering phones, scrubbing tubes, etc. Very happy with where it got me ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? As the industry grows, I hope the process becomes safer and more inclusive. I don’t want people to be scared to walk into a tattoo shop because of an outdated stigma ⸺ What are “Shy Girl” tattoos? During quarantine, I was able to draw a lot for myself. I came up with a design of a girl peeking her head out of a banana, so I decided to draw more like that. Once we got back to work, tons of my clients wanted these “Shy Girls.” It has evolved so much! The Shy Girls Club has a lot of members, and I am thankful for that! ✕

Artist

Jenny is an artist rooted in the South and inspired by the foliage and wildlife that surrounds her. A background in pen and ink illustration and a love of bringing the natural world to life has led her to cultivate her art into illustrative realism tattoos. Her delicate fine lines, velvety pepper shading, and occasionally bold blackwork create movement as each element catches your eye. She welcomes all who are seeking a piece to healing their soul, one that enhances the self-love of their body, or one that is simply beautiful and unique.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? The natural world is my main source of inspiration thematically, from the flora around me to vintage botanical illustrations. Stylistically I have always been in awe of Rembrandt and

Leonardo da Vinci’s work. I have drawn from these inspirations throughout my career as an artist in my pen and ink illustrations, and now I pepper shade tattoos using the same flow and movement I would with cross-hatching.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of being a tattoo artist is how my art can impact someone else. I really love when we finish a tattoo together, and the client says, “Wow, I feel like this was always a part of me!” That usually follows with, “I’m never wearing sleeves again.” Which is wonderful; I love hearing that pride in their own body and the confidence that comes with it! Some days my impact comes in the form of happy tears; other days, sad tears. Then, others, an overwhelming amount of smiles and giggles!

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

When I was an illustrator, I always enjoyed creating custom pen and ink drawings for clients. I saw that I could make other people happy with my art, but it still felt very isolating. I wanted a way to really collaborate and connect with them and thought, what better way to connect with my clients than giving them a permanent piece of art to wear forever!? I want each piece to be a part of them, and I love hearing the inspiration behind their ideas. Tattooing has brought so many incredible people into my life, and I am so honored that I get to share my art with people in such a permanent and intimate way. With every experience and design, my clients carry with them their inspiration for the tattoo, our time together, and a little piece of me. ✕

4.5 Years Tattooing Brooklyn, NY Location Independent Artist Illustrative Realism, Fine Line, Pepper Shading Specialty jennyallen.boneandink @gmail.com

@boneandink Instagram linktr.ee/boneandink .com

From childhood, Jeroen always loved to draw. He started to study Graphic Design when he was older. During this period, his passion for tattoos was born. When he graduated, he began working at an advertising agency. Later he started to combine his work with an apprenticeship. Because of his love for readable, clean tattoos, with still a lot of detail, he started focussing on Neo-traditional work only. A couple of years back, he opened his own shop called ‘Count Your Blessings Tattoo Studio.’ ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? It can come from everywhere; from nature, movies, and of course, other artists ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Don’t always go for the tattoo shop around the corner. Invest in searching for an artist that is specialized in the style you dig the most ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family and friends always supported me in the best possible way. I could use a lot

of friends and my dad as a canvas when I had just started tattooing ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? People seem to like what I do, so I can draw and tattoo, on a daily basis, in the style I love the most ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I have always loved drawing, and staring at cool images always made me happy. Seeing people in video clips or at concerts with those images on their bodies got me obsessed with tattoos ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My girlfriend arranged it for me. She trusted me to do my first tattoo on her leg while we were at a local tattoo shop. An apprenticeship followed, so I guess I didn’t ruin it completely ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Work hard! Play hard! No, just work hard! Just make sure you put a lot of time and effort into it, and it will pay off someday. Also, looking at work from other artists who I look up to helps me a lot. ✕

Georgia girl born and raised. I was lucky enough to land an apprenticeship in 2015. I dropped out of college, put all of my energy into tattooing and never looked back. Tattooing was much more interesting. I specialize in floral, ornamental, and mandala-inspired pieces derived from traditional roots.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? It took some convincing

Artist

JESSIE ADAMS

with my immediate family, but now they couldn’t be more proud and cheer me on constantly! My biggest accomplishment was giving my grandfather a tattoo before he passed in ‘21.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

The first tattoo I remember seeing as a young kid was the Sun Records logo on my aunt’s lower stomach. Like a reverse tramp stamp. I was fascinated and asked to see it every time I saw her. Continued to be enamored by

tattoos and finally got my first one at 17. I thought only in my wildest dreams would I become an artist. Now I own a studio and have two amazing female artists working alongside me.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? Right place at the right time. I was getting tattooed frequently and would

sketch what I wanted and take it to my artist. The shop owner took note and offered me an apprenticeship which I didn’t hesitate to say yes to. There were ups and downs that I’m appreciative of for getting me where I am today.

Hi, I’m Jessica! I’m a Quad Cities-based tattoo artist in Bettendorf, Iowa that specializes in a black and grey fine-line style of work. After a short career as a music teacher in my 20s, I transitioned to a career in makeup artistry. I spent over 15 years working as a freelance artist and in various industry roles. I began tattooing eyebrows after pursuing permanent makeup and opening my first studio space in 2019. In early 2021 I began tattooing very small pieces and exploring my artwork. Since then, I have really honed in on MY style and continue to push myself to learn and evolve as an artist every day.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Goodness, I see inspiration everywhere. Sometimes it’s another tattoo artist, but often it’s something in nature, fashion, or paintings.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Do your research to find an artist that’s a good fit for YOU, then be patient. Don’t overthink the process. Think ahead about potential future pieces and placement. Listen to your artist’s advice on how to prepare. Dress comfy, hydrate, and eat a meal before you go!

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were initially very confused and surprised. My family and friends have always been very supportive and continue to be.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I really think we are at the beginning of seeing the industry really really grow. Tattoos have become so much more accepted, so I would expect the industry to really evolve. It will be exciting!

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Really, the worst experience I’ve personally had was when a man talked inappropriately to me throughout the entire appointment. I should have asked him to leave, but he had a very short appointment. Thank goodness.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Trust your own artwork. I’ve had the most growth when I trust my instincts and believe in my artwork and style. ✕

3.5 Years Tattooing Bettendorf, IA

Location

Independent Artist

Fine Line Black and Grey Specialty @Jfriedrichs_ Instagram jessica @jfriedrichs.com jfriedrichs .com

JESSICA FRIEDRICHS

JOEY HULSEY

My name is Joey Hulsey; I am the owner of Villa Rica Ink. I am a tattoo artist and piercer. A good friend Eddy Miller got me into tattooing, taught me what I needed to know, and got me on the right track to becoming the tattoo artist that I am today. I still learn every day, and that will never stop. I am Christian, and Jesus comes first in my life, then my amazing, hot wife Samaria and my 4 boys, then my shop. I was a youth pastor for 17 years and a worship leader for most of that time as well. I still play drums at my church. I strive to be a positive face in the tattoo industry because there are so many negative thoughts in people’s heads about tattoo artists. We also have a non-profit called iNKED ANGELS, where we use the tattoo industry to help people in need ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Most of my inspiration comes from other owners/tattooers, Craig Foster of Skinwerks, Andy Cagle and Grant Loveless of The Marked Society, and Impala Pat, owner of 4 shops, 1 being Defiant Tattoo Company. These guys have helped pave the way with advice and guidance in this industry. Another huge inspiration is my wife, I always look for her approval, and she will be the first to point out

my flaws in a good way. She helps me become the best me. But my biggest inspiration comes from Christ. I pray before tattoos because there are some that I feel that I just can’t do on my own ⸺ What is a way you can be positive in the tattoo industry? To try to make a positive impact in this industry, I help an organization called ARI. It is a non-profit that helps people that have been rescued from sex trafficking. ARI bring these amazing people to me, and any markings or brands that have been put on them I cover for free. To cover something that reminds them of something so terrible is a blessing to me. We also run a non-profit called INKED ANGELS. We use the tattoo community to help people that can’t help themselves. For example, If someone’s house burns down... We will make a post using our tattoo social media and tell people what we need for this family... within 30 minutes, we will have everything they need. Also, every year we do a backpack drive and give close to 1500 kids in our community backpacks and school supplies, haircuts, dental exams, and sports physicals. My wife heads that up and surpasses anything I could ever do with it. ✕

JOHN BOTTORFF

My interest in tattooing started early in life. My babysitter’s husband was in the Navy, and he had a big anchor tattoo on his forearm. This thing was from way back before black was black. I thought it was the coolest thing ever, and all I knew was I wanted to do that when I grew up.

I took art classes all through school, but as eager as I was to do tattoos, I didn’t get my first one till I was nineteen.

After that, I went around to the local shops asking about an apprenticeship. Eventually, there was one artist, who at the time was the big name in my small town when it came to tattooing; he said it was cool to stop in the shop, hang out, ask some questions, and he’ll give some pointers.

So now, with some direction, I got online to order a tattoo starter kit. Here’s the thing I had the money but didn’t have a card to make the order, so I asked my mom. Let me add that my mom didn’t talk to me for about a week after I got my first tattoo. Surprisingly she let me make the order. She told me not to worry about the money, and it would be my birthday present.

About a year and a half of being a traveling circus, making house calls. A new shop was opening, and they were looking for an artist, and I was able to get a spot. After two years there, I moved out of state to Oregon, not knowing till I got there that the tattoo laws were different than California. At the time, not sure now, but the law was to be able to tattoo, you have to prove four years of tattooing and take a three- or four-hundred-dollar state test. Or get an apprenticeship that the shop has to file with the state.

Now at the time, I could prove three years with order receipts, so I

figured I would ride it out the year. I ended up moving back to my small town, and the shop that I had gotten in at before I moved had closed. Two years after moving back, I got a call from a buddy asking if I wanted to work down at the shop where I would hang out and get some pointers. So I was way cool with that; however, the artist that helped start out was no longer there, and the shop had new management.

I ended up quitting there, and shortly after, there was a raid on the shop, and it closed down. At that point, I had over the time requirement and had collected enough equipment to have my own private studio out of my house. Then 2016, one of the artists I worked with at both shops called me, saying he was opening his own shop and asked if I wanted to help. I said yes ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? A lot of inspiration comes from joking around the shop, challenging one another, as well as coming from what walks in the door. Taking the client’s idea and putting your own spin on it, or sometimes they just have crazy ideas ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? As far as bad experiences go, there will always be some clients that are a little off, not listening, not speaking up, or trying to work a deal. Then there is that artist that wants to say there is only one way to tattoo and one style is better than another, and technology shouldn’t belong. What the clients want is the only right answer at the end of the day ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? When it comes to someone new getting into tattooing, learn everything you can and put it into practice and see what you like and what works for you. Learn from tradition but don’t let it hinder your growth. ✕

Artist

My name is Katya (riruza in social media), and I am an artist with a passion for bringing the imaginative ideas of my clients to life through my drawings. I have been drawing since childhood. I also have a family of artists, which has only added to my love for the arts. I am a graduate of both a school of academic painting in Ukraine and an Academy in Poland, where I studied Digital Media and defended my diploma on Japanese tattoos and the relationship of tattoos with the art of ukiyo-e. (That’s why I’m such a big lover of Japanese and Neojapanese tattoo styles). I grew up in the 90s, where I was heavily influenced by the Internet and popular culture.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Tattoos are a permanent form of self-expression, and it’s important to take your time and choose a design and artist that you are confident in. Don’t rush into getting a tattoo, as it will be with you for the rest of your life.

1. CHOOSE A MEANINGFUL DESIGN: Think about why you want a tattoo and what it represents to you. A tattoo that holds personal significance is more likely to stand the test of time.

2. CONSIDER THE PLACEMENT: Think about where you want the tattoo and how it will impact your daily life. Some areas of the body can be more sensitive and may take longer to heal.

3. FIND A REPUTABLE ARTIST: Look for a professional and experienced artist who is knowledgeable about the best practices for safety and hygiene.

4. AFTERCARE IS KEY: Make sure you follow the aftercare instructions provided by your artist to ensure proper healing and to help the tattoo retain its color and vibrancy.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My mom wanted me to have a more traditional career, like working in a bank, but she’s come to terms with my choice to pursue

5 Years Tattooing

Calgary, AB Location

Independent Artist

Neotraditional

Neojapanese Specialty

@riruza.tattoo

Instagram

riruza.tattoo @gmail.com

riruzatattoo .net

KATYA

RIRUZA RUZHANSKA

tattooing. My family has a lot of artistic talent, and they’re proud of me for finding my passion. My friends are supportive of me no matter what, and many of them are tattoo artists themselves.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.)It depends on the design and the pain tolerance of the individual. Personally, I prefer tattoos on arms and legs, and I am not a fan of tattoos on the neck. More often than not, I will refuse to do a tattoo if I am unable to grasp the client’s idea. ✕

I’m a tattoo artist in Reno, Nevada; I work at Worthy Tattoo Company. Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My inspiration has always come from creating something new. Every time I make a tattoo, I’m inspired to learn and make the next piece even better ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family was very supportive; I was still a minor when I started. I struggled in school, and all I would do was draw. When I finally got the opportunity, I was fully supported by my family, and having that support helped me significantly in becoming who I’m today ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love everything, from the beginning, where I draw the design, to during and getting to build relationships with my clients, to the end, where I’ve made art on someone’s skin that will last a lifetime. But one of my favorites is the look on my client’s faces when they see their fresh

tattoo and being able to witness their reactions ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? It was the drawing and painting that really made me want to become a tattoo artist. I’d create work on paper or canvases for friends and family, and I wanted to do even more with it, and that’s what I did ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) It depends; I wouldn’t go blast someone’s face if they barely had any tattoos. Many things come into factor. I’d tattoo any part of the body. I refuse to do any gang tattoos, though ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? To continue to learn and grow in my art and to one day own my own shop ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Be patient. The tattoo industry isn’t easy. Also, never ever stop learning; there is always something to improve and try, don’t just get good; strive to make every tattoo better

KEAKS HURTADO

Hello! My name is Enrique, but you can call me Keaks! I’m new to the dad life and also newer to the tattoo game. I had my apprenticeship 11 years ago but went towards another route in a 9 to 5 in the oil industry. Almost 3 years ago, I decided to give it another go at being a professional tattoo artist, for it’s what I’ve always dreamed of. It is like I was given a second chance at life but for living my dream, and I am going to give it my all, and I will not let it go again. This is my passion; if I win the lottery jackpot today, I’ll still be

a tattoo artist tomorrow. What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family did not like the idea of me becoming a tattoo artist, mainly I think because, in their eyes, it was not a “secure” income. But what is? 800 people got laid off from the oil refinery I used to work in, and it was supposedly secure. If nothing is secure, I’d rather do something I truly love.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love a lot of things. I love the art, meeting

people, and I love the result where clients walk away with a big smile. It’s truly satisfying to watch clients’ reactions when they love something I created.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Art. I have always wanted to be an artist and be able to make a living out of it. The way I look at it, people back then used to sit in front of an artist for hours and get their portrait painted on a canvas; nowadays, people sit in front of us for hours, and they are the canvas.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? It was tough. I was bugging every shop around, and one finally saw the fire in my eye, or I bugged him enough. Shout out to Shelby Lozano! K.C.T

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing?

Not really sure, but I think we’ve only scratched the surface. Now it’s become more mainstream, and a lot of different industries are interested in tattoos. ✕

Artist

My name is Kendra. I started my apprenticeship in 2015. I opened my own shop, Sweet Needles Tattoo Studio, in 2021 with the goal of creating a safe space for anyone to come and just enjoy the entire experience of getting tattooed. I hope to still be tattooing well passed the age where people ask about the tattoos on me, “What did that one used to be?”

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I’ve looked up to Liz Cook since before I even thought about apprenticing. I actually have her color seminar on DVD in my shop. It was the first time I recognized how much energy goes into the tattoo application. I admire her skills, her shop’s growth, and how much work she puts into sharing her knowledge with the next generation of artists.

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

My partner was very supportive of the entire process: the work all day/ no days of hustle between the apprenticeship and keeping a second job. I think my parents were a little nervous for me but more excited about the free tattoos!

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I still don’t take on hands until the client has at least sleeves, and I feel the same about full throat/neck tattoos- like they should have at least their chest finished- to me, they just look unfinished. Other than that, I only turn down tattoos that represent any form of hate/bigotry.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Most of my bad experiences in tattooing as an artist and as a client revolve around the other party trying to step over my personal boundaries and try to touch me inappropriately or be suggestive to me.

Thankfully, I haven’t experienced that since I opened this shop!

What projects are you working on right now?

I started a side project called Your Body, Your Tattoo (@YourBody_ YourTattoo) on Instagram. It teaches clients what boundaries they can set with their artists to avoid being physically taken advantage of and gives helpful tips to artists on how to provide a safer space for their clients. All around, it’s an attempt to improve the relationship between the two and raise the standard for professional tattooing. ✕

8 Years Tattooing Amarillo, TX Location Independent Artist Color Cover-ups Specialty @superksoul Instagram superksoul @gmail.com superksoul .com

I’m a 29-year-old shop owner of 5 years and a tattoo artist of 7 years. I’m a father of a 10-year-old daughter who’s smart, sassy, and a growing artist. I’m a Weeb and a PlayStation gamer, of course ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? So many amazing artists, but some quick ones are David Mushaney, Kodi Ellis, Swan_ Tattooer, and Sudan_blk (Otterboy) ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Oh, it’s important to get rest, stay hydrated, and eat well before the tattoo ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They weren’t shocked. I always drew a lot growing up, so they figured whatever I did, it’ll be art related ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I’d say connecting with my clients and having freedom ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? It was a suggestion by my cousin. Shortly after, I showed a tattoo artist my art, and they told me I should tattoo ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Yes, it was either a no or the run-around. I had a lot of time wasted, so I ended up being partially self-taught ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Bro, I’m not tattooing a penis ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Tattooing is constantly evolving. I see more dope styles and fewer gatekeeper mentality ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I had a client confess to her sister she was sleeping with her husband while I finished their matching tattoos ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Please don’t get discouraged, and if you do, keep pushing forward, striving to perfect your craft ⸺ What is your biggest challenge in the tattoo industry? Man, it changes, so maybe trying to figure out if I’m doing things correctly ⸺ Is there anything you wish to change? Yeah, sucking in the beginning ⸺ What styles do you like doing? I love blackwork, geometrical, anime, and greywash, sometimes with hints of color. ✕

Artist

I’m a 40-year-old husband and father of 2; been in the industry for 22 years and an owner/operator for 13 years. I grew up in rough areas of Chicago, got into graffiti, and then into tattooing my buddies (kitchen commando) working different jobs and got my foot in the door at Firehouse Tattoos under Chuck Iglinski. Within 2 years of my apprenticeship, I became a manager and a full-time artist. A few years later, I bought into the shop, and here I still am ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Jason Butcher, Neon Judas, and Paul Booth, to name a few ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Be open-minded. Do your research on the shop/artist ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My father wasn’t very happy with the choice but said he was proud of me before passing. Mom always supported me, and

my friends always pushed me to go for it ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Freedom and creativity ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Getting tattooed for the first time at 16 years old ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Not so much. My apprenticeship was pretty formal, making needles, scrubbing tubes, tearing down, setting up, and running for lunch ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) No face, hands, or neck unless in the industry or set in a career ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Honestly not sure; it has definitely grown and continues to grow as an amazing art form ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? To have passion for it and be a sponge from other artists. ✕

KIRSTY YORK

28-year-old shop owner with eight years of tattoo experience. Owner of Blackbird Ink Tattoo in Longmont, Colorado. Working my way up from a rough apprenticeship, to working out of a street shop, to now currently a shop owner, I am proud of where I am today.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The freedom and ability to travel. Aside from living the dream of doing art every day, I would say the best part about being a tattooer is freedom. Not only do I have the freedom to make my own schedule, but it is a job I can do almost everywhere. I have guest-spotted and done conventions all over the US; no other job would let me travel to all the amazing places I have. I am truly grateful to have the job freedom I do.

8 Years Tattooing

Blackbird Ink Tattoo

Owner/Artist

Denver, CO Location

Animals/Botanical Specialization

k.yorkarts @gmail.com

@yorkietats Instagram

blackbirdinktattoo .com

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I would never agree to do a hateful tattoo. Everyone is allowed to have their opinions, but this is a limit to what I would agree to tattoo on someone.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Draw, draw, draw! The better artist you are, the better tattooer you will be. I think most people overlook that we are artists first and tattooers second. In my opinion, the best tattooers have extremely strong drawing skills. Work on your drawings, and never stop improving.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Who knows! In my eight years of tattooing, I have seen such an advancement in the industry it is hard to imagine what could come next. I learned how to tattoo on coils, and now I use a cordless machine. I’m excited to see what is to come.✕

...MOST PEOPLE OVERLOOK THAT WE ARE ARTISTS FIRST AND TATTOOERS SECOND.

LAMYA ALDOURI

My name is Lamya (Lem-ya), and I currently work out of Bleeding Heart Tattoo, located in Lee’s Summit, MO. I love tattooing subject matter that is within the realm of nature. (Botanicals/florals, animals). I have a BA in fine arts and a background in illustration. Art has always been something that came naturally to me, so when tattooing entered my life, I couldn’t resist ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get a lot of my inspiration from the nature and wildlife around me in the Midwest, but I also look up to tattoo artists such as Hannah Flowers and Kate Mackay Gill ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Being raised in a strict Muslim household, tattooing was not on the list of things my parents wanted me to do for a career. However, they eventually came around, and they now enjoy seeing the work I create and learning about the tattoo industry itself ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I always thought they looked cool, but using them as a permanent form of self-expression is what I

found most intriguing. I’m almost 30 now, but when I was in 6th grade, I remember telling my mom how I was going to be covered in tattoos one day. She, of course, freaked out and said that wouldn’t happen, but look at me now! ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? It was hard. I was told no countless times. No one would look at my portfolio, and they almost always immediately told me no. This didn’t stop me, though. I made sure that no matter what, the next shop I walked into was going to at least look at my art before turning me away. I did just that. I apprenticed in 2015 and was licensed in 2017. I’ve been tattooing for 9 years now and don’t plan on quitting any time soon ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Have your shit together. Have a portfolio, visit the shop you want to apprentice at until they are tired of seeing you, then visit more. Don’t message them online or call. Walk your happy ass in there. Get tattooed by the artists you admire and show them why you want to be in the industry. ✕

LAURE C

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They laughed at first! They may not have thought I was born to become an artist, but I am very lucky all my family and friends have always been very supportive of all my goals, and now they can see how much I love what I do.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The fact that it doesn’t feel like a job! I get to go to work each day and be surrounded by artists and clients who are as excited to be there as I am. Most of all, it’s being able to express my creativity through my work and give my clients beautiful designs that make them feel more confident and love themselves even more than before!

Born and raised in Antibes, France, I decided to move to Toronto in 2021 with my boyfriend and our two cats. As a big fan of nature, I chose to focus on floral and ornamental tattoos and have been tattooing since 2019.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I find inspiration and passion for what I’m doing from the nature surrounding me. I also

find a lot of my inspiration in different styles of tattooing. My boyfriend and biggest mentor, Ossian Staraj, works on high-contrast black and grey realism tattoos, so that’s part of what inspired me to put a lot of contrast in my designs as well. I’ve always loved to study Neo-traditional and Japanese composition.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Choose your artist carefully, find the right person whose style matches your project, don’t be impatient, and don’t be cheap. Have trust in your artist; that’s the best way to get a tattoo you’ll love.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I am very lucky my boyfriend was my mentor from the time I started tattooing. He’s been such an incredible source of knowledge and was able to steer me past many of the mistakes and issues that young artists often experience. This really helped me grow my tattoo skills very quickly. He’s been really supportive of my career through all the early growing pains and has always pushed me to see my full potential.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Never give up; hard work always pays, don’t be afraid to ask for advice from artists who inspired you, and surround yourself with talented AND altruistic artists.

LEE ROWLETT

My name is Lee Rowlett. I’ve been tattooing for 18 years. I specialize in black and grey realism tattooing.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get my inspiration from anything and everything. Textures, shapes, lighting, and other mediums of art. Everything I see is a form of inspiration to me.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Eat a big healthy meal before the session and start hydrating several days before the appointment.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? At first, I believed people saw it as more of a hobby. Now they see how successful I am, and

most are proud of what I’ve made of myself.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Everything. I love the ability to travel and always have a job. I love drawing and doing tattoos. I’ve always been obsessed with art.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I was 14 or 15, and a friend’s dad owned a shop in the small town I grew up in. I’ve always loved to draw, so after school, I would go to the shop and help clean and draw in the back office. When I turned 16, I started my apprenticeship.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Getting the apprenticeship wasn’t hard, but going through it, well, that’s a different story. My mentor was an

old biker; drunk, loud, and loved to fight. It was a chaotic upbringing.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t do any symbols of hate. Other than that, I’ll do most things, given you’re tattooed enough to get your hands and face.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Honestly, other than really terrible spots to get tattooed, palm, for instance, I haven’t had too bad of a time getting tattooed.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Focus and work hard but also remember that this is the greatest job on earth. Remember to have fun and keep loving what you do. ✕

18 Years

Tattooing

Jeffersonville, IN Location

Independent Artist

B&G realism

Neo-traditional/stylized realism

Specialty @leerowlett_tattooer Instagram leerowlettbookings @gmail.com

LINDSEY CLARK

I’m from a big family in southern Indiana. I started my tattoo career there in 2007. During the last few years, I’ve had many opportunities for travel and gotten to work with Studio Evolve in Virginia Beach, Woodwork Tattoo in Bremerton, WA, and the amazing team at Blasted Tattoo Care. Aside from tattooing, I love baking, playing DND, and going to Renaissance Festivals ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Many artists inspire the way I approach my work. Three, in particular, stand out. Vall of Quill & Talon Tattoo in Virginia Beach taught me to tattoo the way I draw and inspired me to take a chance on myself. Kyle Wood of Woodwork Tattoo in Manette, WA, taught me many of the finer points of tattooing. And my brother, Adam Hicks of Ageless Art in Clarksville, IN, inspired me to learn to draw when we were kids. When creating my designs, I get a lot of inspiration from stories, mythology, and lore. I love being able to incorporate elements to help tell the story and use symbols to capture the intention of the tattoo. Victorian flower language and herb lore are fun ways to add something special to a design that needs an organic

touch ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Always always ALWAYS check portfolios and make sure the artist you choose does tattoos the way you imagine your tattoos to look. Don’t be afraid to go to someone different if your vision doesn’t line up or you don’t get a good vibe from the first artist or shop. When getting ready for that first tattoo, drink plenty of water, get plenty of rest, and eat a good meal before coming in. You’d be amazed at how much it helps ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? As an artist, I have the coolest job in the world, and I’m so lucky to have a career I truly love. I get paid to draw and color, and I have had the opportunity to travel and work with/learn from some crazy talented folks ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Travel. Do guest spots and conventions. Try new products and techniques. Network with other artists and learn from them. Ask questions. Ask for critiques. But whatever you do, don’t ever stop learning. ✕

LUNA LUCERO

I was born in 1995 on southern Vancouver Island and raised by two artist parents; I was encouraged to draw from a very young age. I left high school at the age of 14 and left home to focus on my art, self-taught. I have wanted to be a painter since I can remember; by the age of 16, I was able to pay my way in the world, working full-time as a commission-based realist oil painter. I spent some years abroad, living in Spain, Switzerland, and England, before I came home to Canada and learned to tattoo at the age of 22, I’ve been home on Vancouver island ever since ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? This changes year to year, but at the moment, I’m inspired by many tattooers and painters of so many different styles, such as Claudia de Sabe, Valerie Vargas, Chuco Moreno, Frank Ball Jr., and Gordon combs ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Of course, making the tattoo, but I am very fortunate to have the most amazing loyal client base here that trusts me with not only doing my thing on them permanently but also with their secrets and stories; I love the connections with my clients ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I got my first tattoos when I was 16, the guy who did them for me tattooed my own designs I had brought in, and he said I should consider getting into it, of course at that age, I was super shy and definitely didn’t think I was cool enough to do a job like this. But I started trying anyway by drawing more tattoo-able designs and starting to look for an apprenticeship, walking into shops with my portfolio, and hanging around tattoo shops ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I’m not sure I’d like to know, haha. I acknowledge I’m part of the problem as a younger-generation tattooer, but I definitely thought tattooing was something else before I got into it. I try not to get too disenchanted by the fact that tattooing isn’t really about being an outlaw at all, haha. ✕

I’m from Atlanta, GA, and have been in the USAF since 2004. I started tattooing in 2007. I am a father, husband, and combat veteran.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? History of tattooing, tattoo artists that came way before my time, almost keeping a tradition alive through art.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Stick with tattoo styles that stand the test of time; my granddad had an American traditional tattoo that was 60 years old; it would still be a good tattoo today; bold will hold.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? That it was just a thing I would try and get bored with.

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

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

How people feel after they get their tattoos is almost like surgery for some people; they just feel joy when they’re done or if it was a memorial piece, it brings them some peace in a way.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours?

Yes, drawing till I was sick of it, then drawing more, cleaning the shop, washing cars, kind of like karate kid.

MAC GOBER

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Unless you are covered, I’m not tattooing your face or neck.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Some kind of instant printing tattoo.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? It’s not easy. I think if you do find things are very easy, you’re not pushing yourself enough, anything worth doing is hard, and don’t give up; you never fail; you are either successful or you learn. ✕

17 Years Tattooing Independent Artist Layton, UT Location American Trad/ Geometric Specialization macgober17 @icloud.com @Mac_gober17 Instagram warhawktattoo .com

I’m a tattoo artist from Austin, Texas. I received my Bachelor of Fine arts with a specialization in oil painting in 2007. Before tattooing, I was an illustrator and graphic designer.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I draw inspiration from the old masters of painting. Studying their techniques and experience really helps with my current style of tattooing.

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

Don’t make the mistake of getting a huge first piece. Get something small to get through the initial “nerves” process. It will show you what to expect when you do decide

to get a larger tattoo. Also, lotion your skin a few days leading up to the tattoo; it makes the experience much easier for you and the artist.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My brother was wondering what took me so long to take the leap from painting to tattooing. I should have done it years ago.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I don’t feel like I “work” for a living. I can be creative every day. It feels more like a lifestyle than work.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

My traditional art education, along with the increased popularity and general societal acceptance of tattoos.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t tattoo anywhere on the body that has a mucous membrane because the risk of infection is too high.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Ninetynine percent of my tattooing experience has been fantastic. Even when that one percent of unpleasantness walks through the door, it usually ends in an experience I can laugh about later.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Learn the basics of tattooing: line work, color packing, and shading. It’s becoming fashionable to jump directly into a style without having functional knowledge of the basics. In so doing, the new artist runs the risk of their style being labeled lame or outdated and without the ability to adapt. Artists must always be able to roll with the punches.

What would you change in the tattoo industry? I would push for the artists to have a stronger foundation in art before they could pick up a tattoo machine. ✕

MARCUS PEFFER

I’m from Ohio and recently moved to the Houston, Texas, area. I was a ravenous drug addict for nearly half my life. I was one of those athletes that got hurt and was impacted by the opioid epidemic. I got to a point where I lost everything and found my sobriety by becoming a tattoo artist. This industry saved my life and gave me a beautiful, stable family. My world has seen many highs and remarkable lows. However, through it all, I realized nothing is truly bad if you learn from it. I’ll always remember where I was, and today I just try to be better than I was yesterday ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My family, for sure. I’ve seen great things and terrible things in this world, and I want to ensure they don’t know how dark it can be ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Whatever you have in your head about how bad it hurts, I promise you it’s not that bad ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? When a customer sees the tattoo for the first time and smiles. I feel like I caused a ton of damage in this world during my addiction, and that smile makes me feel as if I’m now impacting this world in a positive way ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? Honestly, it just kind of happened. I was homeless after being released from rehab and ended up at an AA meeting. Oddly enough, the guy leading the meeting owned a tattoo shop, and I just so happened to have some recent drawings with me. Tattooing found me, and I ended up falling in love with it ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Getting the apprenticeship, in a sense, just fell in my lap. Now getting there was another story. I didn’t have a car or much of anything when I started. There were definitely days that were harder than others, and I went about 6 months without a day off. You could say I had a bit more of a “traditional” apprenticeship. Truthfully, it was hard, but I’m very happy now to have gone through the process the way I did. ✕

I have presented my works to many people in different countries of the world by blending my color realism studies and hyper-realism portraits with my own style of experience. I traveled to many countries, especially Europe and America, to master my craft. I combined colorful realistic, hyper-realistic and portrait works with my own surreal style and this is how I managed to be recognized all over the world. Colors have always been a part of my world and I became the pioneer of this trend by using it especially with the “Neon” style. In addition to tattooing, I am happy to present my art to you with my oil paint and acrylic works on sculptures, murals and paintings. I have been drawing pictures, doing ceramics since my childhood and trying to get inspiration from every field of art. My colorful works are a rebellion against the dark world we live in ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? When people see a tattoo that I made for someone else and they ask that person if Melek did the job! This might be the best feeling I’ve ever had. In fact, I sign my name with my style, and when people see my work, they can understand that it belongs to me. In short, the most enjoyable part of this job is that my work is recognized

and appreciated ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My husband! He is a tattoo lover, and he encouraged me to start tattooing. I completed my education life by studying at the faculty of fine arts, and I was already working in the fields of painting, sculpture, and ceramics. When he saw my works, he inspired me by saying that I should use this talent for tattooing Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Ah! I can say that I’ve been in a very dangerous situation. I think a client of mine fell asleep while getting a tattoo on his upper inner arm. He jumped in an instant and quickly thrust his arm forward. At that moment, I pulled the needle so fast that it almost caught my eye. I was so scared, and I had to stop tattooing before I could complete it ⸺ Does the skill of painting contribute to tattooing? Absolutely! If you have poor knowledge of shadow and color, you can only do the technical parts. For example, you don’t need to be an artist to draw a good drawing or to make a good maori. The more you practice, the better you will be. However, if you want to be a good color or realism artist, you should definitely improve your painting knowledge. ✕

MELEK TASTEKIN

Tattoo artists/Painting Specialization Independent Artist Colorado & NYC

I’ve been tattooing for nine years and am the owner of The Company Tattoo in Reno, Nevada. I like black and gray, blackwork and traditional tattooing.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Everything

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Find an artist whose work you really like, see if you vibe with them, and then just let them do what they do.

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

My mom has always supported my art; she even bought my first machine. She’s always been my number-one fan.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? The girls I work with are so talented and just phenomenal humans. Them and our clients, I love meeting and getting to know them.

9 Years Tattooing

Reno, NV

Location

Independent Artist

Black and gray Blackwork Specialty

@Monica_gurnari_tattoos

Instagram

monicagurnaritattoo @gmail.com

MONICA GURNARI

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I’ve always done art, but when I started getting tattooed, I knew it was where I wanted to be.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Color realism, lol, for now, anyway.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Early in my career, I worked in a really toxic, drug-addled shop. It was definitely a lesson in how NOT to do a lot of things.

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

I guess the best advice I can offer is to be ready to do the work. Tattoos are permanent and expensive, so your clients deserve the best you can give them. ✕

BROC LOGAN

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? The concept of taking your art and permanently putting it on your skin was always fascinating to me.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Finding a traditional apprenticeship was difficult; I ended up finding a way to teach myself instead. It was a lot of trial and error, plus using resources such as YouTube.

What are some of the most common misconceptions people have about the tattooing industry? A common misconception would be that we’re all party animals and money gouging, but what we’ve done here at Legacy is prove that we can do amazing art professionally and have become a more fair and family-friendly environment.

What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with clients? I enjoy being able to give people an experience they want to come back to, really building that trust in a comfortable environment. Being able to express myself artistically while having to challenge myself to push my limits.

Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I was able to tattoo a vintage Halloween toy from McDonald’s on an arm. We actually ended up winning 1st place for the small tattoo category at the Middle of The Map convention in May this year.

How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? I’m inspired all the time by the great artists that both work here or that I’ve come to know. Through sharing ideas and hosting art nights, we do what we can to motivate each other.

Can you discuss any challenges or obstacles you’ve faced in your career as a tattoo artist? The biggest challenge in the industry was finding a place that would take me on and seriously as an artist, on top of going from working at a mental health facility to being accepted at a private studio to building my own shop.

How do you balance the demands of being a successful artist with your personal life? Always make the most of your off time with friends and family and enjoy other things you love.

What do you do outside of tattooing? I like to do leather and woodworking, being outdoors, fishing, and riding motorcycles. ✕

6 Years Tattooing Grimes, IA Location

Legacy Tattoo and Art Co.

Owner/Artist 2020

Founded

6 Resident Artists

Neo Traditional/ Pop Culture Specialization broclogantattoo @gmail.com

@broclogantattoo Instagram Legacyartco .com

MICHAEL GETZ

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

For me, it was living the lifestyle that I always wanted to while being able to create financial freedom based on my own ambition ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I was asked if I wanted to do an apprenticeship. Even though the process was difficult and intense at times, getting into it wasn’t that difficult. I was approached about the opportunity. It had equal parts sterilization and application as it did brown liquor and the party life. Times have changed ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from?

I get a lot of my inspiration from studying shapes in nature and the contour of things from actual scenery to facial structures. I use these things to enhance a lot of the horror realism I do ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were always supportive of me following my passion but didn’t believe that a hobby could become a career ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of tattooing is the opportunity and the freedom to express my creativity and

skill through helping others express themselves and the faith and trust that comes with it ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I had a guy read the Old Testament to me for five hours straight once; that was probably the worst experience of my life ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Always be as excited to do the tattoo as the client is to get it; being a tattoo artist doesn’t make you cool; it’s the passion that you put into the tattoos that makes you unique ⸺ What do you enjoy most about tattooing and working with clients? Honestly, clients walking through the door as one person and leaving feeling a little bit more connected to who they truly are ⸺ Can you tell us about your favorite tattoo that you’ve ever done? I did a tattoo of myself aggressively eating a banana, wearing a sweatband on a girl’s buttcheek, with no hesitation ⸺ How do you stay inspired and motivated as an artist? We all hit artist block; we can’t avoid it. It’s just a matter of having a lot of things in your life that fills your cup to make sure motivation stays. ✕

“ALWAYS BE AS EXCITED TO DO THE TATTOO AS THE CLIENT IS TO GET IT.”

Hi, I’m Molly. I’m a full-time tattoo artist from Seattle, Washington. I grew up playing outdoors on a 20-acre piece of land, going to church and taking every art class I could, and those are the things that still influence my work today. I’ve always loved working with people, and tattooing gives me the opportunity to use my art in a way that is deeply meaningful to others. It is a great way to make a living, and I could not be more grateful to have this as my career ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I find that I draw a lot of inspiration from nature and history, as well as folklore and the spiritual subject matter too. I have folders within folders on Pinterest of animals, flowers, church windows/ altars, art nouveau paintings, and mythology. I think I find the best inspiration from allowing myself the time and space to be curious, go down rabbit holes, and just enjoy where my research takes me ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I actually went to a state-regulated tattoo school in Portland, Oregon. I know many folks in the industry have a lot of trepidation about tattoo schools, which is fair

for those schools that have no checks and balances in place. However, I loved my experience. I learned from multiple artists, had access to great resources, and was given an incredibly thorough education on safety and sanitation. I can honestly say it was one of the best choices I’ve ever made for myself ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I think the worst experience for me was when I did a guest spot in Los Angeles, and the shop owner basically accused me of short-changing him. I was so gutted. I’ve worked so hard to build good rapport in the industry and work with integrity, so that was pretty mortifying. Thankfully he didn’t spread any slander about me, and I was just able to leave and not look back ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Don’t let the industry intimidate you. Be humble, take advice, and learn all you can from those who came before you, but don’t let anyone scare you away. If you even think you MIGHT have something to add to the global conversation that is tattooing, you probably do. ✕

MOLLY VEE

Blackwork/Neo Deco/Nouveau Specialization

Independent Artist Seattle, WA Location

Laughing Buddha Tattoo Shop mollyveetattoo .com @ladywolly Instagram mollyveetattoo @gmail.com

Artist

the utmost amount of gratitude for their unconditional support.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Being a part of a female-owned and operated shop really makes my job 10x cooler. I love receiving people’s ideas, creating them in my own way, and seeing their reactions to how I’ve brought their idea to life. There’s something so rewarding about it.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I received a once-in-a-lifetime offer from my mentor, Marlee Natale, to learn her craft. She and I met in college, and she was just starting to open her own shop. I’m beyond blessed to say I had a smooth road to developing my skills.

Morgan Taylor believes art is for healing. Tattooing out of Eternal Ornaments in St. Petersburg, Florida, Morgan goes the extra mile in customizing the experience for her clients, whether assisting them in expressing their most vulnerable, meaningful moments or providing a lighthearted, feel-good laugh. The permanence of art is one of the key reasons why Morgan focuses on giving her clients the freedom of speech and expression during the whole tattoo session and aftercare. Having been known to bust out in song a time or two, she will be sure to have you leave the shop with a smile on your face.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My mentor and entrepreneurial inspiration, Marlee Natale, has played a crucial role in my growing experience

as an artist as she took the first chance and believed in me. I receive much of my inspiration and knowledge from the artists I’ve met in my hometown and at the tattoo conventions I’ve had the opportunity to attend.

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

My family and friends could not have been more supportive in every aspect. They really gave me the courage to follow my dream, despite how untraditional it may have been. I have

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I would refuse to tattoo any private parts, face/head, and hate speech designs.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I believe the tattoo industry and the tattoo community are becoming more inclusive, inventive, and unified. We are constantly growing. ✕

1 Year Tattooing

St. Petersburg, FL Location

Independent Artist Blackwork/ Traditional Specialization

morgantaylortattoos @gmail.com

@morgantaylortattoos Instagram

MIKE JONES

Tattooing for over a decade, Mike has been honing his craft and building a long list of dedicated clients, stretching up for half a year for an appointment. Self-taught after getting a spot in a studio just before his would-be mentor left, he pushed to learn everything he could. Quickly rising to portraiture and horror, the same direction his art had led him, he quickly garnered local recognition, which spread until people traveled for hours for appointments. Now Mike continues to sharpen his skills by adding more textures and patterns that attempt to provoke a more tactile sensation in his work ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? When I get to illustrate something for a client from a shared interest. For instance, a client asked me to work on a Poe-inspired sleeve with aspects from various stories. He originally asked for the usual popular story illustrations; black cat, raven, and heart. I told him we should do something that no one has done yet. No illustrations or other tattoos referencing, so we landed on The Masque of the Red Death, and I got to come up with how I imagined the Stranger to look. It was creepy and had a lot of gross and visceral textures that helped the viewer *feel* the story beneath it ⸺

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Sort of. I applied to a local studio a bunch of times when a friend pointed out they were looking for an apprentice. I brought my portfolio with all my artwork in and called probably every other day. Eventually, they granted me a spot, but around the same time, the person who was supposed to train me left. I was kept on, though, but pretty much trained myself. The other apprentice that was there learned a bit before the mentor left, and he showed me some; the owner of the studiohe owned 3 locations at the time - came in occasionally and helped. I’m very fast at teaching myself and soon moved to a more popular location within the studio umbrella where I’d work for 5 more years. So I guess you could say I was self-taught in a professional environment ⸺ What are your tattooing goals? I want to work more on developing my style and doing more of the things I love. I want to work on darker pieces or at least have the freedom to turn projects a little darker, specifically with things like textures. I’ve been having a load of fun with what I’ve been doing lately and just want to expand on it. I want to reach further than just a black-and-grey realism artist. ✕

Hi! My name is Natalie Cooper; I am a 23-yearold artist from Saint Augustine, Florida. I started tattooing a few months after graduating high school and have fallen in love with the craft since then! I am undoubtedly inspired by folklore and nature, and interconnecting the two with my art and daily life is what I enjoy the most.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Relax! Anxiety is sometimes inevitable, but if you do your research and choose an artist whose work you enjoy, trust that you are in good hands. Keeping yourself in a good headspace and open communication makes a huge impact on your first tattoo experience!

NATALIE COOPER

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Overall I love being able to give my clients artwork on their bodies that makes them feel confident and express who they are. Even when I am not having the best day, seeing the smiles on their faces makes everything worth it. I also love a clean outline, so lining is my favorite part of the tattoo process!

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I hope that we as artists continue to try and push the limits of what we are capable of so that we can prosper and pass on our knowledge to future generations!

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I’ve definitely had some interesting experiences while tattooing, experiences that I won’t get into specifics about. Most are just uncomfortable

situations in which clients or friends/family members of clients show inappropriate behavior in the workplace.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Never stop trying to learn and grow, take classes, ask questions, and continue to push yourself when things feel difficult. If you show up every day and do the best job that YOU can do, then you are on the right path.

What are the different types of services that you offer? Currently, I am trained and certified to perform body tattoos, permanent makeup for eyebrows, and saline tattoo lightening/ removal. I also provide intuitive tattoo services, in which clients can receive a design based on their cards pulled in a tarot reading! ✕

I’m a queer artist both from and residing in Columbus, Ohio (no, it’s not ALL corn out here)! I’ve been tattooing since 2016 and co-own a private studio named Last Moon Tattoo. Outside of tattooing, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping. I love horror movies, mystery novels, and true-crime podcasts. I live with my partner and our two cats ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? It may sound cliche, but nature. A lot of my work is plant and animal-based. Traveling and outdoor recreation have been huge proponents in boosting my creativity by supplying me with a clear head and fresh ideas ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Making clients feel more at home in their bodies. I love being able to be a conduit for this. Knowing that your client has a more positive relationship with themselves after a tattoo is the most rewarding part ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I have loved the idea of tattoos since I was a little kid. I used to beg my mom to let me put Lisa Frank’s temporary tattoos on myself whenever possible. I felt SO happy wearing those little designs. This led to watching tv shows about tattooing throughout my adolescence, getting tattooed, and eventually pursuing it as a career ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Overall yes, I’ve had some creeps here and there that have crossed boundaries and even participated in some light stalking behavior. The worst was my own tattoo experience with another artist. He and the other artists with him were condescending towards me to the point where I didn’t feel comfortable coming to appointments alone. I had started a large project with this artist, so there were a lot of long, silent hours spent together after that first appointment. It took a full year after that experience for me to want to get tattoos again ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? There are going to be a lot of days that suck. Keep going, and be kind to your clients. Building a solid return clientele offers stability and the relationships you’ll create are the most rewarding part! ✕

NATALIE DAVIS

Nina was born and raised on the Oregon Coast, which she proudly calls home. She has been involved in the arts ever since she could remember involving anything from metalwork, pottery, painting, and of course, drawing. She was a ballerina for 17 years and believes that’s where her strong sense of selfdiscipline comes from. She takes inspiration from nature and feels a close connection to the energy of the earth from either spending her free time at the beach or on a hike with her two dogs.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My friends and family were highly supportive when I chose to get into the industry. I couldn’t thank them enough for the endless support and love they have all given me throughout my career. My husband especially has sacrificed a lot for me, including moving across the country for my apprenticeship so I could start my career. I don’t think I would be where I am in my career today without everyone’s love and support.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My apprenticeship was rather unusual. I met my mentor’s mom at

1 Year

Tattooing

Palm Bay, FL Location

Independent Artist

Black and grey realism

Illustrative Specialty

@ninas.tattoos_and.art

Instagram

ninastattoos @gmail.com

a previous job, who then passed on my information to my mentor. After seeing my work, she offered me an apprenticeship. From there, my husband and I moved from Oregon to Florida so I could pursue my dream. The duration of my apprenticeship was very short, and during that time, my mentor was also in the process of opening her own studio. With my apprenticeship being so short, I felt I always needed to be on my game, and I had zero room for error. My mentor helped in any way that she could, but I felt it was rushed toward the end. She ended up cutting my apprenticeship short

as her new shop was opening around the same time my apprenticeship ended. That’s where things ended up taking a turn. Her shop ended up being one of the most hostile work environments I’ve ever worked in. Shortly after her shop opened, the other remaining artists and I left. It was hard having a fallout with my mentor, especially so soon in my career, when I felt like I didn’t have all the tools under my belt. I later found another shop that was willing to bring me on, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everyone there. They helped fill in the gaps and brought me new confidence within myself to keep pursuing my passion.

We are identical twins Ryan & Matthew Murray, of the Black Veil in Salem, Massachusetts. We are tattoo artists/ multi-media artists centralizing and drawing heavy influences from nature, Victorian era macabre as well from the history and practice of witchcraft ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? We’ve always found ourselves drawn to the darker aspects of life, death, and the macabre. For us, there have always been elements of immense beauty to be found there, and it has always seemed to wrap us up and hold us close. Our artwork draws very heavy influences from the death & mourning etiquette of New England’s Victorian past times as well as the energy and history of our home, Salem, Massachusetts. Our illustrations manifest a deep fascination for capturing a glimpse through the keyhole of a veil between two worlds ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? The initial spark that led us down the path of tattooing was when we first watched one of our older childhood friends getting a tattoo for the first time, it was something simple, but we were instantly fascinated, especially with already being so inter-

ested in illustration, painting, and all other art forms. It just seemed like the next step, and we were determined and fixated on learning as much as possible ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The advice we would give someone new to the art would be to just be yourself. Create with the intent that is true to yourself, be patient, and continue to learn;

We are all still learning, and there is no finish line in any art ⸺ How do your styles differ? Over time our styles and skills have organically grown and developed with one another; we love to learn and feed off of each other’s techniques as well as concepts and ideas; consistency is something that we’ve also always consciously strived for since we were children and has carried over into our adult careers. Through this, it’s become very difficult for others to distinguish whose artwork belongs to whom at times.

In all of our work, we both share our matching black widow spider signature as well, representing the cycle of life and death, a creative force weaving a web of fate through a life of solitude. ✕

NEIL ROBERTS

Just a family man who loves his craft; I am an avid fly fisherman and get on my skateboard from time to time.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I appreciate the classics. Cap Coleman, Sailor Jerry, Ed Hardy, Greg Irons, etc... I pull inspiration from current tattooers like Tim Lehi, Chris Garver, Chris O’donell, Grime, Tracy Lambright, Dan Martin, and Gabriel Massey.

one, but I had a tragic situation that wound up making me not follow through with it at that time. I started tattooing though around my 18th birthday when I was still in high school, mostly just on my close friends and a little on myself. I did that for about a year and then landed my first job at a shop in Salt Lake City. That shop is still there; it’s called Anchor Ink and owned by Steve Tippetts. I wasn’t there super long, about 4 months maybe, but I learned a lot in a short amount of time there, and I’m still grateful to him for that helping me get my foot in the door. After that, I bounced around the country.

What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I honestly don’t know. In reality, everything has pretty much already been done. No one is reinventing the wheel here.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Meeting new people, honestly. This job is very social, and thankfully I enjoy being social with my clients. My wife says I could talk to a brick wall!

I love hearing my clients’ stories of where they come from and what they enjoy doing. You learn so much about the world from these encounters.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I honestly didn’t have a formal apprenticeship. I did have an opportunity to have

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I have had several over the past 17 years, either with artists I got tattooed by or with some unruly customers or co-workers. There are assholes everywhere you will go in the world; we can’t control how people will act.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Draw and paint your ass off. Study art and art history. Pay attention when you are getting tattooed, and listen to the advice that’s being given to you. And above all, make sure you walk before you try to run. ✕

NICKOLE ASHLOCK

I’m a 31-year-old lady living in HTX with my two sphinx cats, who are very much my children. I love playing video games (especially The Sims 4) and various forms of crafting, and I am obsessed with Sailor Moon. I also quote far too many TikToks ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I do a lot of floral tattoos, and strangely enough, I love looking at floral arrangements to get inspo. I also love to pay attention in my daily life to how shadows play on different objects and how things really are. Of course, social media is a never-ending inspiration as well ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I love seeing how tattoos can make a person’s self-esteem and confidence rise with every tattoo. I LOVE hyping people up and making them feel beautiful and at home in their skin. For myself, tattoos have definitely made me feel at home in my body, so to be able to share that with others is a gift ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My parents had a friend named Bill who had TONS of tattoos and tattooed on the side. I thought he was just the coolest, toughest, but also kindest dude out there. When I was about 13, he asked me, my sister, and his daughter if we would tattoo him on his ankle. Just some tiny little tattoos. Mine turned out the best and I was hooked! From there, I told everyone I wanted to tattoo after I got out of high school ⸺ What is your shop named after? My father named me when I was born, and my middle name had been passed down through our family. For a while, I had been embarrassed by my middle name Aletha, but one day I came across a woman whose name was Alethia, and I just thought, “Wow, it’s so beautiful for her; why can’t I see that it’s just the same for me?” So, when thinking of a name for my private studio, I wanted it to be something about me coming in and accepting myself as well as honoring my father, whom I love very much! ✕

NICK GARRIS

My name is Nick Garris; I am a 34-year-old tattoo artist and shop owner in Spokane Valley, WA. I have been tattooing for about 8 years and have had my shop for a little over 2 years. If I’m not tattooing, I’m spending time with my 5-year-old daughter ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I try to get most of my inspiration from my clients. I like to talk with them and get to know them to figure out the style and piece that will fit them best ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) First, I would always say make sure it’s something you really want and won’t regret down the road and also to make sure they do it in a spot that’s on the less painful side so they can understand how a tattoo feels and don’t end up not being able to finish it ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? My family and friends were actually a bit shocked because, growing up, I was never a very artistic person and never talked about wanting to become an artist. Now they absolutely love what I do and couldn’t be more proud! ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Definitely being able to be creative and turn people’s ideas into something they love and will have forever. I love hearing, “It’s better than I imagined!” from my clients ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? When I got my first tattoo it immediately sparked my love for tattoos and tattooing. Not only the experience of getting it but the atmosphere of a tattoo shop and everything that went into it ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? When I had my apprenticeship, it wasn’t too hard to get into, but the experience was definitely challenging at the time; that’s how you grow and learn ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Generally, I won’t do any face tattoos unless they’re very tasteful and small. I would refuse any tattoo that tries to glorify drug use in any way. (The only one I’ve had to turn down yet). ✕

Pablo Frías is a Professional Tattoo Artist from Buenos Aires, Argentina. As a child, Pablo had aspirations to have a profession in the art industry, as he had been drawing and expressing himself artistically since his youth. At the age of 23, he began an apprenticeship at a local studio in Buenos Aires and completely engrossed himself in everything he could about his art and profession. After working through his apprenticeship, Pablo opened his own studio and continued to apply and hone his discipline in an effort to find his style. His journey began with New School, Cartoon, and onward to Realism. He credits the opportunity to travel the world and attend several conventions where he could learn from different artists as an enriching inspiration to help in this pursuit of finding his own modality for tattooing.

Pablo enjoys new school and cartoon as the

PABLO FRIAS

foundation of his current style: Realism. In 2021 his colleagues Darwin Enriquez and Zhimpa Moreno invited him to be a resident artist at Inknation Tattoo Studio.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? One time a client left without paying; that was back when I was starting to tattoo, hahaha.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? To draw a lot is, in my opinion, the foundation. To start an apprenticeship in a local studio with an artist they admire. And to work hard and give their 100% all the time, as if it was the last tattoo they would make.

Do your clients give you artistic freedom? Most of my clients do; I think that this is most important for the artist to have a client that gives you the confidence to let you do what you do.

Do you accept designs that are far different from what you do? I think it is very important to specialize in a certain type of tattoo. For example, I can not make mandalas, it is something that I am not specialized in, and I would not be able to do it well.

How hard is it to maintain or keep your creativity on a high level? Frustration is something that constantly comes when you work on a new design; there is always a moment in which it is very hard to find the correct flow. You have to be patient and perseverant on it, try to give your best, and don’t get yourself down. Stay always positive. ✕

I specialize in animal and character portraits, mostly in black and grey or color realism. I add Neo-traditional and American-traditional elements to my designs, as well as scenery and floral pieces. Being creative was something that was just a natural instinct for me at a young age. I fell in love with the creative process and challenges of becoming a tattoo artist. That journey has given me a multitude of possibilities as well as the freedom to be my true self and help others heal and express themselves through my art ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? For as long as I can remember, I’ve been encouraged to draw, but my grandma was a huge inspiration. On every visit with her, I would end up painting, drawing, sewing, or making some sort of craft project. I would always gaze at my grandma’s paintings in fascination with their beauty and skill. To this day, I still admire my grandmother’s work, and I thank her every day for motivating me in my journey with art ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? They were a little hesitant at first, but seeing how passionate I am and how hard I worked to get where I am in my career, they all support me as much as they can. My father and grandmother even got their first

tattoos from me ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Being a part of the creative community and being able to help and support people going through hardships. I’ve always loved working with people with mental health and confidence issues since tattoos have given me so much more confidence in myself. I love how creative I get to be every day in my job and how delighted my clients are with each part of the process. Forming relationships with my clients and listening to the stories they tell during our sessions is always so delightful ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My whole apprenticeship process was pretty hectic. I worked hundreds of hours at the shop, drawing, helping other artists, and gaining experience. It was a pretty rocky journey, but it makes me appreciate my career so much more today ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Practice drawing and designing in different styles with different mediums. Get tattooed and watch the process. Talk to the artists you look up to and have a style you want to achieve, and take advice and constructive criticism. Tattooing takes tons of hard work and patience, but it’s so rewarding in the end. ✕

Started my apprenticeship in the mid-’90s at Absolute Tattooing in Menominee Falls, WI. Begged Scott Freidrich for 2 years to let me tattoo. Finally getting the chance I lasted maybe 6 months and he shipped me to another city to work by myself. Blessing in disguise, I had to push myself harder because I had no one to fall back on. Three years later feeling like I wasn’t progressing I started traveling and working at as many shops as I could. Picking brains and constantly drawing. Long story short, I ended up working for my friend Jesse Santoro whom I started with years ago. Been 9 years of doing everything and anything. I love doing black and grey and large Japanese work, but it’s not always in the cards. Have to make the customer happy yeah know.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I have a wide variety of inspirations and respect for many artists, but my favorites have always been Filip Leu and Robert Hernandez. They are always pushing the envelope in tattooing and painting.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) You should do your homework; just because someone is popular doesn’t make them good. See healed pics or in person, and make sure lines are clean and color or shading is smooth.

28 Years

Tattooing

Port Washington, WI Location

Independent Artist

Black and grey

Large-scale color Specialty

@peter_kugel Instagram

black7tattoo @gmail.com

tattoosbypete .com

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

Working in a factory for 7 years, I used to see some cool work and always wanted one. Tattooing was different back then, with many secrets and much harder to get into. Just made me want it more.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I begged for over 2 years to get an apprenticeship. There were only a few tattoo shops back then, and you had to gain their trust. My apprenticeship was sink or swim; I did maybe 15 tattoos and started doing walk-ins on the weekends. Not the ideal apprenticeship, but I worked hard and picked a lot of brains. Draw, draw, draw!

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Work hard, draw, and take in as much art as you can, not just tattooing. Get as many tattoos by an artist as you like so you can learn. Watch, ask questions, draw, and did I say draw? ✕

PETER KUGEL

PINGPING

My name is PingPing; I was born in China. I’ve been doing body art now for nine years. I love the clientele I have built. I incorporate elements of Asian culture into my art ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My dad is an artist; I grew up in an artistic atmosphere and learned how to turn art into a tattoo ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Take your time to make sure what you want to get. Do your research and choose the right artist ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Thanks to my family and friends for supporting my passion and encouraging me to become a tattoo artist ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I loved the challenge of working with clients to create custom designs that would be permanent on their skin and that they would be able to look back on it ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I am able

to express myself through my artwork; I am grateful to have found my calling ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Yes, it is hard but worth it. After I graduated from a professional tattoo school in Portland, OR. I needed to acquire more experience, so I went to Washington for my apprenticeship ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Face and private areas ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Not really. I am pretty lucky ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? You will learn and acquire a lot of experience if you work hard. You are never too old to learn new styles and skills. ✕

PHOENIX

Hello, my name is Phoenix, and I’m an artist from Arizona currently based in Alabama ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I am the first generation, so it didn’t go over well with my mom at first, but ultimately she came around when she saw my happiness. My friends were supportive and helped give me my start with tattooing. I’m not sure I would have continued if it wasn’t for their continued belief that I could do it. Even when some of the work wasn’t so great, love you guys! ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is connecting with people from all walks of life and gaining new insight from listening to their stories and seeing their confidence grow by looking at the art in the mirror ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I always had a love for art, but I didn’t have an idea where I could apply it. I remember trying to get a job as a waiter with a friend and getting turned down fast with no real work experience on a resume. It wasn’t until I went to get the first tattoo that the idea sparked in me. I’m so thankful it found me when it did ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? One time, I had a client try a failed attempt at sneaking some drugs passed me while getting tattooed. Then when their friend leaned over me for a photo of the tattoo, they snapped the table. To make up for breaking my table, he gave me a little cash and took the table. Not sure what happened with it, but I hope it found a good home. I don’t know whether to call it a bad experience or a learning experience ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? I advise anyone starting their tattoo journey to remember to have fun. Don’t take everything to heart; learn how to grow from the critiques. Be in this for the right reasons because there are some humbling moments ⸺ What impact has tattooing made on your life? I’m lucky to be doing what I love while also being able to provide for my family. I understand the position I’m in, and I’m grateful for all that has happened. ✕

Black and gray/ Chicano black and gray tattoo artist based out of Marietta, GA, metro Atlanta.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? A couple of friends actually believed I would make a career out of it, but most people didn’t believe so. And, of course, my parents thought they knew what was best, and they were really against it at first until I helped them pay rent one day when times got bad.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is the whole job, really. On Mondays, most people feel bad and complain about going to work; the way

10 Years Tattooing Marietta, GA Location

Independent Artist Black and Grey Chicano B&G Specialty

reyf1989 @gmail.com

@Tattoosbyrey

Instagram

REYNALDO FIGUEROA

they feel about Fridays is the way I feel about Mondays. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I was about 14 years old when an older friend handed me a homemade tattoo machine to tattoo him with. He let me keep it when we were done. Everyone was walking around with messed-up tattoos for a while till I got better. It was around that time that I knew that this was what I wanted to do.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Try not to become one of those tattoo artists with a rockstar attitude, whether you’re barely getting good or if you really start to get well-known. When you become great at what you do, it can get you far in your career. But when you have a great attitude as well, it will get you even further in your career and in life.

Have you always been an artist? Yes. I really don’t remember the first time I ever picked up a pencil. I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember. Growing up, I didn’t have much. But I am glad I always had a pencil and paper.

What do you specialize in? I would say black and gray, Chicano black and gray, and I’m trying to focus and get more into realism. I also enjoy freestyling. Every once in a while, friends and people that really trust me just give me their ideas, and they ask me to freestyle, no stencil or sharpie. ✕

Self-taught artist Mexican American. Always trying to help anyone in need. Humble.

Constantly trying to tattoo the world one day at a time.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? My inspiration comes from seeing all these other great artists that are dominating the industry all over the world. I’ve always had the mindset that anyone can get where they want as long as they put in the hard work and stay motivated. My parents and close family have always been my inspiration and motivation

ROLANDO “RO” NAVA

to do great and be great. As we grow as a business, my mentality is to help people as we move up, either opening job opportunities or motivating people along the way.

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

The first piece of advice is never to overthink things. You have to remember our mind is very powerful, and whatever we think happens. Once you step into our facility as a tattoo virgin, we do our very best to make you feel at home, make you feel comfortable, and at ease. Also, here at

Nava studios, we always provide numbing cream for the ones in need, so that always helps.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? For starters, I don’t consider this a job; this is a way of life. Permanently marking someone’s body for life is an amazing thing. Knowing that someone is walking around this world with a body mark done by me blows my mind away. That is my motivation, and that is what keeps me going.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship?

How was yours? I never had an apprenticeship,

most shops will turn you down, and that’s what happened to me. Some used it as strict business to use people as their pets and charge them, while others completely shut you down. So I took it upon the streets to teach myself.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The best advice I can give everyone is always to remain humble and never forget where you come from or how you start. Also, never give up life can and will make it tough, but just remember, if it were easy, everyone would be doing it. ✕

10 Years Tattooing Lagrange, GA

Location

Independent Artist Black and grey Cover-ups Specialty @Navastudios_ Instagram navastudios @navastudios.biz

navastudios.wixsite.com/ tattoosnphotography website

RYLEE HOOPER

I am a 22-year-old tattoo artist from Thousand Oaks, California. I have been an artist ever since I could move my hands. In and out of experiences, both good and bad, I found peace and a form of escape in my art. It was an outlet. Art has given me a lot of my purpose. Seeing the masters from a young age (museums, documentaries, etc.) gave me such a fire under my belly to create. It allowed me to find confidence and my identity. Along with physical artworks, I found artistic expression in clothing, music, and day-to-day interactions. I plunged myself into the real world as soon as I was able. By 18, I was moved out and blindly navigating the chaotic world of Los Angeles. Through my years here, I have seen pain, beauty, expression, and catalysts in their purest forms. I always knew I was going to be an artist in some way, shape, or form. As most artists know, there comes an anxiety with trying to support ourselves monetarily. I was stubborn, however. I refused to settle with the mundane, and I find that continues to be so, even though I feel I have made my dreams come true ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I find inspiration in many things and many

people. I find my biggest inspirations come from the smallest circumstances. Take my best friend, for example, a graduate from OTIS; she continued to follow her own will and continue to use her art to make a living despite the struggle. She keeps me on my toes. My dad is another big one. He has been an artist his whole life as well. He and I would always draw together, and I remember tracing his designs when I was in kindergarten because I wanted to be as good as him ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? With our generation of social media and the age of saturation, it seems really glamorous and easy to step into tattoos, but it is not. I will strongly push new aspiring tattooers to do their research, not stop drawing, and find the right mentor. With this being said, make sure it is so, etching you are willing to absolutely dedicate yourself to 110%. It is not a walk in the park. It is hard work, late nights, stress, and tears. It is the most rewarding thing I believe someone could ever do if they’re ready for it. Do not get discouraged by criticism or rejection. If you truly believe you have it, you will get it. Just work. ✕

Not much to state here. Small town tattoo artist in the middle of nowhere Nebraska...where the tumbleweeds run free and finding cows in your yard is normal. I started this about 6 and a half years ago after gaining a degree and working in the media field for a while... and then realizing it wasn’t cut out for me. So, no better way to make my parents proud than to start tattooing (by the way, they are very proud!) ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I follow many people on Instagram that seriously inspire me to keep working harder and to become the best artist I can be. Ranging from the stereotypical Ryan Ashley to many others like Cameron Pohl, Stefano Alcantara, Stefan Getty, Paola Meyer, and Stas Gromov ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My dad, actually. He’s been a teacher for as long as I’ve known my father (lol). And has always been heavily covered! ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I actually lucked out in that sense. I had known the previous owner of the shop I now

work in. He knew I had some good skills with pencil and paper and wanted me to give it a go. Though I will say, the apprenticeship did suck in the general sense. If I bought the wrong toilet paper, I had to stuff my bra; or one day, they got me drunk and then made me scrub the tile floors while trying not to throw up. You know that kind of stuff... yay me ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Oh God, who hasn’t? You’re really intimate with your client touching their skin. I had one guy one time that was honestly perfectly presentable. Clean and nice...but something felt way off about him. Like I refused to get near him to tattoo (never tattooed with that straight of a back ever!). Once I was done, I asked the other ladies in the shop to see if I was just being paranoid. They laughed and said, “Girl, he gave off the aura of someone who planned to turn you into a skin lamp if he got the chance.” And it was true...I eventually had to kick him to the curb after receiving messages about how much we are “friends.” ✕

SAVANNAH CUDZILO

Linework/Black and Grey Specialization

Independent Artist North Platte, NE Location

6 Years

Tattooing

Born and raised in the Buffalo/Niagara region. I currently work at Sink or Swim Tattoo in Niagara Falls, NY, under the ownership of my longtime friend and mentor, Keith Kuzara. I have always been a creative person, spending a lot of my middle/high school years drawing and playing music. Over the years, I tried my hand at playing music professionally. I toured the country for around five years or so before finding my way back to drawing and pursuing art as a career. In February 2016, I officially started my apprenticeship at Sink or Swim Tattoo, where

SEAN SALASNY

I have been blessed with the guidance and company of many incredible artists and friends! I am so thankful for the opportunity to tattoo so many amazing people along the way!

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get a lot of inspiration from watching nature documentaries.

Instagram is obviously a huge source of inspiration. There are too many amazing artists out there to name them all, but I’d have to say RB Tattoo1, Alejandro Leys2, Matt Wright3, and Juan David Rendón4 have been some of my favorites!

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) DO YOUR RESEARCH!! There are so many amazing artists out there, and with Instagram, it’s easier than ever to find one that suits the style of tattoo that you want! Just because your buddy’s tattoo artist does sick traditional work on him/her doesn’t always mean that they will be the best option for a portrait, dainty line workpiece, or whatever it is you are looking for.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part is getting to hang with my clients, who, more often than not, turn into friends. Most people I tattoo tend to come back multiple times, and I feel like we really get to know one another.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I will absolutely 100% refuse to do any sort of haterelated tattoos, whether it’s symbols or words or just images that portray hatred towards others.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? PRACTICE. Do not get discouraged. With the thousands of incredibly talented artists out there on your Instagram, it’s very easy to get down on yourself and feel like you’ll never be as good as them. Instead, look at them as inspiration, and work your ass off! Never stop trying to improve, never give up, and one day, another young artist may just be inspired by your work. ✕

SHANE MCCORMICK

Self-taught tattooer with over 16 years of experience. I was born in Monroe, Louisiana, and moved to the mean streets of Shreveport, Louisiana, when I was 14 years old. I’ve been getting tattooed since the early 90s and have seen on myself how tattoos age. Due to my own experience, I draw/tattoo in a way that will allow your tattoo to age gracefully ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I didn’t do your typical apprenticeship; hell, I didn’t do an apprenticeship at all. Sometime in my 20s, I was running around with some really shitty people and got myself caught up and thrown in prison for a couple of years. While I was there, I would draw portraits and traditional tattoo designs on envelopes for a hustle. I had a gang member who liked my work ask me if I would tattoo him, and I was like, “Naaa man, that ain’t like drawing on paper, and he was like come on, man, I’ll get you the ink and gun and everything. I wasn’t really into it, but after he kept pushing for it, so eventually, I said fuck it let’s do it. Initially, I tattooed his gang logo on him, and it was such a rush that I did some more tattoos...next thing you know, I was tattooing the entire unit and had become one of the top tattooers in the joint. I eventually got that book, Tattooing A-Z by Huck Spaulding, and carried that thing around like a bible. I told myself I was going to do this for

a living when I got out and started to learn everything I could about traditional tattooing. When I was released, I got one of those Spaulding and Rogers kits out of the back of a magazine and started fucking people up. I eventually got some better equipment and started doing some okay tattoos. I was a single dad raising a baby, so I couldn’t put in the work of your traditional apprentice, and I would tattoo on the side from my 9-5 job. Eventually, my work was decent enough that I took my portfolio and drawings into a tattoo shop and was like, what do you think? They hired me on the spot, and the rest was history. The place I got hired was a very busy street shop at the time, so I was able to build up my skill set pretty quickly ⸺ When did you get your first tattoo, and why? I got my first professional tattoo as soon as I turned 18. I got $50 for my birthday and ran down to the tattoo shop and got a skateboard logo tattooed on me and thought I was the shit. I remember looking in my Thrasher magazine and seeing all these old skaters with tattoos and thinking they looked so cool. I really thought Team Alva was the coolest, especially this one guy named Fred Smith, who had this big ole dragon on his chest. For my second tattoo, I went and got a dragon on my chest, and by the time I turned 20, I was already heavily tattooed. ✕

Artist

My work is influenced by European Art Nouveau, Neo-Traditional, and Traditional styles. I started professionally tattooing more than 10 years ago, back in Tel Aviv, Israel. I worked for about six years in the tattoo Tel Aviv; later on, I decided to start exploring the world of tattooing in other countries.

In 2018 I did my first artist guest spot at Blackcat Tattoo in Berlin, Germany.

Later on, in August 2018, my wife Jenny and I relocated to the United States with the goal of growing our businesses as international artists. I received my O-1 visa to the USA and started to work in tattoo shops in Chicago, IL.

I have participated in a few tattoo competitions and won eight awards, the most important of which are:

- 2021 1st place at “Best Color Tattoo by EPIC Tattoo Supply” (June)

- 2019 3rd place at “Best Neo-Traditional Tattoos by FYT tattoo supply” (October)

- 2021 4th place at “ Best Traditional Tattoo by Holy Water” (October)

- 2019 4th place at “Best Male Tattoo by Inked Magazine” (October)

- 2019 5th place at “Best Skull Tattoos by Mayan Mayhem” (October)

Past Artist Residencies:

- 2022 The Burnt Tiger Tattoo Chicago, IL. (August & November)

- 2022 10-Thousand Foxes Tattoo Brooklyn, NY. (June)

- 2022 Speak Easy Tattoo Chicago, IL. (May)

- 2022 Three Kings Tattoo Brooklyn, NY. (April)

- 2018 Blackcat Tattoo Berlin, Germany. (June)

In September 2022, my wife Jenny and I moved from Chicago to NYC for more opportunities.

10 Years Tattooing

Brooklyn, NY

Location

Independent Artist

NYHC Tattoos Shop

Neo-Traditional Traditional Specialty @sir.g.tattoo Instagram

yaniv.goren1 @gmail.com

SIR. G. TATTOO

I got back to work as a resident artist at NYHC Tattoos located at Lower East Side Manhattan.

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

Tattooing is another type of art, it’s for people who like to be seen with art pieces on their body; the needles are just like paint brushes; instead of painting on canvas, tattoo artists create a painting on the skin.

So, my most important piece of advice, if you are interested in getting a tattoo, is to just keep it real and be original. Search for an artist whose artwork you like and who specializes in that style. When artists don’t have a specific specialization, they are typically only mediocre. So, if you want to get the best tattoo, let the artist design the tattoo and let them do what they do best in their own style.

It’s the same thing as buying a painting from an artist; you find an artist you like and order one of their works. Or if you want them to design you a custom piece, you let them do their own thing.

A tattoo artist is an artist who uses tattoo equipment to make his own art; he is not a tattoo printer that copies and pastes and steals other artists’ work. Be original because you are an individual and special in your own way. The tattoo on your body should be the same; a create that is as unique as you are. Be special, keep it real, and be original with your new tattoo. ✕

SANCTUARY PITTSBURGH

PITTSBURGH, PA

Sanctuary Pittsburgh is an LGBTQ+ and femmeowned tattoo parlor and vintage shop. Our mission to help clients reclaim their bodies through the art of tattooing began in 2020 when the studio was founded. Self-love and healing are at the center of our work because we deeply understand the complexities of trusting your body to a stranger. The studio is a safe and comfortable space that welcomes everyone regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation. We make it known that we hold ourselves to high standards in our art, as well as how we treat

everyone who comes into the studio space. Our artists accept no apologies for the way your body exists naturally, and we take great care to promote mutual respect when speaking with clients from the time they book to coming into the shop for their first session. We revel in the opportunity to learn about our clients’ lived experiences and offer them an environment to compassionately connect with their tattoo artist. You won’t find another shop quite like us. Aside from our skilled artists, we also feature a collection of handselected antique items,

vintage clothing, home decor, and accessories. We strive to offer size-inclusive options and promote gender expression through clothing and style. The studio owner has a passion for repurposing and saving vintage and antique items, so we’re always updating the shop with unique finds. Merging tattoos and vintage has allowed us to further connect with the community we serve and welcome everyone, even if they don’t have plans for a tattoo in the future. We’re breaking the stigma of who and what tattooed people are by having conversations with

our customers every day. YSanctuary Pittsburgh is committed to providing a safe and inclusive space where queer people in our community are not only welcome but centered. Our team is composed of talented people with diverse identities and sexualities. Additionally, we’re always looking to add to our team both resident and guest artists. Throughout the year, we look to support fundraisers for both local and national LGBTQIA+ charities and women’s reproductive freedom organizations. We host multiple Pride events, including flash sales, block parties,

and vendor markets featuring other local businesses and artists. Our skilled artists are dedicated to creating beautiful custom tattoos that range in style. The studio is appointment only, welcoming collectors and firsttimers alike. Our clientele and even those who are not tattooed are happy to have a shop in their community that challenges the traditional tattoo parlor experience. We constantly work to create change in our own backyard because we love the tattoo industry and want to see it continue to evolve and thrive. ✕

TATTOOANDY

Raised in the small town of Kent Ct. With little else to do, Andy spent much of his childhood drawing with his grandparents. This constant practice early on landed him acceptance into the illustration program at Pratt Institute, where he developed his love for color. During school break, he was offered a job drawing and helping out a lot at a local tattoo shop, but he began tattooing by the end of the summer, dropped out of Art School, and never looked Back. When not tattooing, Andy can be found painting, playing drums in his band, or camping and fishing with his wife, daughter, and two dachshunds ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I find that in order to have a unique voice within this rapidly growing industry, it’s important to also look outside of tattooing for inspiration. Illustrators like Aaron Blaise, Max Grecke, and Greg Manchess are a few that I look at regularly for different ways to approach my work ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of tattooing is when a client gives you the freedom to create. I love taking a simple prompt

and doing my thing with it ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? My apprenticeship was definitely a lot different than most 20+ years ago. I was still in Art School and had two years left when I started tattooing. The plan was to spend my vacations from school helping around the shop, doing drawings, painting flash, etc., and then when I graduated, go from there. But I ended up learning to tattoo much sooner than that. My mentor showed just me how to tattoo and skipped all of the hazing and making the apprenticeship hell that you hear about from a lot of other artists. So I would definitely say it was easier than most ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? That’s honestly hard to predict. More and more artists are coming into tattooing from art school and upping the game, not to mention the advancement in both tools to do tattoos and the tools to design them. So much growth has already happened since I started that I can only see it grow further. But in what direction, I couldn’t begin to imagine. ✕

I was born in Bosnia pre-war. My family and I moved to Croatia when the war started, and in about ‘94, we moved to the US, where we landed in Georgia and have lived since. I have always been artistically inclined, so my parents enrolled me in an art institute at a young age, where I quickly dropped out because I disliked someone telling me how to draw. Fast forward to now, I have 4 kids, am married, and tattooing, and I wouldn’t change a thing ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Friends, family, friends in the industry, but most of all, my wife, Megan. She is an amazing artist herself. I am enamored listening to her talk about color theory and the science behind fashion hair color and education ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Do your research! There is an artist out there for every style, but please pick a good one, and don’t cheap out! ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I tried to hide it from my parents for a while, but everyone

was supportive from the jump. Even my parents, who I thought would absolutely hate it. Maybe my dad will even get that Snoopy tattoo that he’s been joking about one Day ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Creating art and hanging out with friends. Also, the money isn’t bad either ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? As bad as it sounds, I didn’t really have much of one. Most of everything I know is self-taught and from learning from friends in the industry. Hell, every day, there is something new to learn ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? Tattooing is ever-changing, so who knows what will come in the future. I just know that if you aren’t willing to grow as an artist, then you will quickly be left behind ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Do an apprenticeship. Find a good artist that you like and bug them until you get an apprenticeship. Also, don’t give up and be open to change and learning because tattooing is an ever-evolving art form. Have fun with it. ✕

TATTOOKIES

TITO RODRIGUEZ

Tito Rodriguez has been professionally tattooing since 2009. Tito grew up in Paterson, NJ, and was introduced to art at a very young age. Tito credits all his artistic talent to his uncle, “Zoro,” who is a graffiti artist and Tito’s biggest influence growing up. Witnessing Zoro create art from just thoughts in his head inspired Tito to follow in his uncle’s footsteps and pursue art. Most of Tito’s family is heavily covered in tattoos, so it wasn’t long before he asked to get his first tattoo. Once tatted, Tito was driven to leave his mark in the tattoo world and asked his first tattoo artist to help him get into the game ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get most of my inspiration from other great artist in the industry. I love taking my own photographs and turning them into tattoos. The freedom inspires me to create things I never knew I could ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? I am very blessed that my family and friends were completely supportive. My family is heavily tattooed, and when I mentioned I wanted to get into the tattoo busi-

ness, they were 100% behind me. My father, Hector, and my uncle Zoro bought me my first tattoo machine 14 years ago. That was the beginning of my tattoo career. That machine is one of my prize possession, and I still have it to this day ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? My favorite part of the job is being able to create art every day. Seeing my thoughts come to life is such an amazing feeling. I have the greatest clients ever, and when I see their excitement about a tattoo I did for them, it inspires me. I strive to become a better artist every Day ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The best advice I can give is to respect the art of tattooing. Be patient; this skill does not come overnight. Continue to gain information about not just tattooing but art itself. Light source, color theory, flow, and composition are all super important. You will never know everything there is to know about tattooing, and that’s the beauty of the craft. Even after 14 years of tattooing, I’m still learning every day. Invest in knowledge. ✕

I am a tattoo artist from Huntsville, Alabama. I’ve been tattooing for eight years. Now I specialize in color, realism, abstract realism, and coverups ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? Early in my career, I started following as many artists as I could from around the world. I have taken inspiration from many different places, from other tattoo artists, painters, and sculptors ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? MMost were very supportive! Some did not agree, but at the end of the day, I am in control and responsible for my own life! If you’ve lived your entire life pleasing other people, you haven’t lived your own life ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Specializing in coverups, I’ve always taken great pride in the idea that I can turn someone’s old mistake or nightmare into a beautiful piece of artwork! I have really changed some lives doing this ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? I was a manager for a fast food restaurant while I was going through college to be an

architect when a tattoo shop opened up in my parking lot! It was very tiny and only lasted for about two months, but I was interested and started going to see him. One day he asked me if I wanted to be an apprentice, and I was taken away from there ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? The parking lot shop closed down fairly soon, so I began my hunt for a real apprenticeship. It wasn’t very difficult for me to get started, but once I got in, I realized how much hard work and dedication were involved. It was tough, very tough. But in the end, it was so worth it ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I try not to discriminate on location or subject matter. I don’t tattoo gang or hate-related subjects. I try to keep religious values, political beliefs, and personal preferences to myself. However, due to the demand of inquiries I get, I am a little choosy with the projects that I take on but ultimately would not refuse them ⸺ What about college or a backup plan? If you really put the time and effort in, you won’t need a backup plan. ✕

TONY JOHNSON

TYE HARRIS

Originally from west Texas but based near Austin, Tye is a renowned self-taught artist and shop owner specializing in black and grey realism and portraits. He’s been tattooing professionally for nearly 20 years and has owned Faces In The Dark Tattoo since 2016. Outside of tattooing, Tye loves traveling and spending time with his cats, Church and Maeve ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? These days, I get a lot of inspiration from the artist I work with. We’re always asking each other’s opinions on designs and working together to make sure we give the clients the best tattoo possible. There’s inspiration everywhere at this shop ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to travel a little bit to get a good tattoo. Sometimes you can luck out on a good artist location, but most of the time, the right artist for you isn’t going to be down the road from your house. Driving a few hours or even hopping on a short flight

is always worth it to get the tattoo you truly want ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I really enjoy meeting new clients all the time, having new conversations, and interacting with the other artist at my shop. The human connection is one of the greatest aspects of my job, for Sure ⸺ Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? I never had any type of apprenticeship; I tattooed at my house for about 2 years before I landed in my first tattoo shop in San Antonio. I ran out of needles, so I started calling tattoo shops to see if anyone would sell me any. When I finally found a shop that sold supplies, I was stoked. I just went in to buy some needles, and they asked if they could see my portfolio. It wasn’t much at that point, but it was enough to land my first job in a shop ⸺ What is your favorite subject matter to tattoo? I really love doing portraits. Something about making a piece come alive on the skin is so satisfying, and they tend to be very meaningful pieces. ✕

VICTOR DIAZ

I created this convention from scratch. We are now on our way to our third season. We have a great team built. Our convention includes Tattoos, Arts, Fashion, Media, and Welding. We are kid friendly. Last season we saw over 6,000 guests. We expect 8,000 this season ⸺ Who or where do you get your inspiration from? The art industry as a whole; all mediums, media, and Platforms ⸺ What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Think before you react ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? Tattoos were frowned upon. My family hadn’t approved until they noticed my consistency ⸺ What would you say is your favorite part of the job? I am able to wake up daily and do what I love. To network with artists and brainstorm ideas is a dream job! We create! ⸺ What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing? My friend Samantha Vinski said I would be great at conventions. I listened, and she was right! She’s a tattoo artist from Fort Myers, Fl ⸺ Who are your favorite artists? Drkturcotte, Steve Butcher, Mashkow, Levgen, Clayton Diaz, Im_Tattoo, and there’s a ton more! ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Racial slurs ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? More 3D flashes ⸺ Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? I tried to do everything myself, and that was a hard lesson. I learned delegation helps you create full success and reach the potential you think about ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Be persistent, take advice, attend seminars, and always level up. ✕

Realism, Color Portraits Specialty diazvica @gmail.com

Wes Fortier is an American tattoo artist and musician from Hamden, CT. He is known for his guitar work with the hardcore/punk band Death Threat since 2001. Wes started tattooing in 2008 and promptly excelled in his line work, leading him to specialize in lettering and various styles of black and grey. Wes opened his own tattoo shop 2015

‘Burning Hearts Tattoo Co.’ and has provided a beautiful home base for many great tattooers and body piercers over the years as well as traveling artists. When he’s not tattooing or performing music, Wes spends time traveling with his family.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I was always interested in lettering. When I first started out tattooing, the majority of my peers locally were doing a lot of American Traditional. I think that style is very cool, but my eyes were stuck on BJ Betts, Mister Cartoon, and a lot of west coast style graffiti as well as older sign painting styles. I grabbed whatever BJ Betts books I could get my hands on at the time and traced those alphabets until I had the confidence to start creating my own letters.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? When someone comes in with a vague idea and just says, “Here’s the idea... do your thing”. That’s always a good day for me. Being allowed creative freedom and the time to do the best job I can do is what makes me happy.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Keep in mind what you are capable of executing WELL at every stage of the game. It’s okay to try new things, but don’t get in over your head. Take your time and test your abilities, but do it slowly

and with caution. LISTEN TO YOUR MENTOR. It’s easy to go down a rabbit hole of what ‘so and so’ uses, how this other person does things, etc. Your mentor can only show you the way they know how. It’s super easy to get off track and complicate things when your testing every new product you see before mastering the one that came before it. There are no shortcuts, no magic ink, and no magic needles to make you better instantly. Master what you are being taught, and then explore.

WES FORTIER

YAYA TATTOOS

Yaya is a mom of 2, and a wife, born and raised in New Jersey. She started her tattooing career in January 2022. She may be a newbie in the industry, but she has the heart and desire to trail-blaze through it. She is not afraid to take risks and do what it takes to step outside her comfort zone. Yaya’s main focus is dainty, minimal, and creating black and grey realism tattoos. You can find her at Ink Gallery Tattoo Studio in New Jersey ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? My best advice for someone new to the art of tattooing is you are not going to feel confident when you start your journey. These are skills that take a long time to master, but if you are consistent and work on them every day, a year from now, you can be in a completely different place. Give yourself the patience to have room for errors. Through your errors, you can learn and grow ⸺ Is there anything you wished you had done differently when becoming a tattoo artist? When I finished my appren -

ticeship, I wished I had more discipline. I feel like I gave it up so quickly based on fear and feeling like I wasn’t worthy or good enough to be an artist. I don’t regret any decision that I made in my life because, through my experiences, I have grown so much as a human being. I needed to go through challenges to become who I am and appreciate where I am today. I just have a completely different mindset 10 years ago versus now ⸺ What do you do when you’re not tattooing? When I’m not tattooing, I’m either home with my family or in the dojo. I started karate with my husband and kids almost 2 years ago, and we have developed a passion for it. It’s a great outlet and helped me mentally and physically. I love that we do it as a family ⸺ What is a con about being a tattoo artist? I would say a con of being a tattoo artist is feeling I always have to be available to answer people. When I go out, people tell me all their ideas and never end up booking with me. ✕

PHOTO BY SON OF SAM ON UNSPLASH