Seventeen years may seem like a lifetime, yet it feels surreal to reflect on my journey. I vividly recall my very first week, navigating the hustle of a busy Saturday and pretending to be a seasoned tattoo artist, all in a bid to build my clientele. My portfolio back then was a mix of kanji and old English lettering. It has been fascinating to witness the evolution of tattoo trends over the years, including shifts in popular placements. When I first started, tattoos on the hips, lower back, and tops of feet were all the rage, but it’s been years since I’ve had a request for those areas. In fact, the demand for foot tattoos has dwindled to almost nothing, which surprises me; I always thought their discreet nature would keep them in vogue.
It took me quite some time to find my footing as a tattoo artist. The journey was filled with insecurities and anxiety, especially in the early days when I was surrounded by seasoned professionals who had mastered their craft. Imposter syndrome often loomed over me, sometimes leaving me feeling paralyzed. Fortunately, I had the privilege of working alongside supportive and encouraging colleagues. In my region, I also formed friendships with other tattoo artists who were welcoming and kind. The tattooing community was smaller back then, but now it has expanded significantly, with new studios emerging at a rapid pace, making it difficult to keep up with them all.
The landscape of tattooing underwent a significant transformation with the introduction of Instagram and later COVID-19. The focus shifted towards appointment-only sessions, and artists began to specialize in specific genres or styles. Many tattooists moved away from the traditional street shop environment, opting for private studios where they could better control their schedules and concentrate on the unique styles they wished to promote. This shift allowed artists to cultivate a more personalized experience for their clients while honing in on their artistic vision. While I continue to work in a traditional street shop, I have also benefited from this change. In the past, tattoo artists were more open to taking on whatever came through the door, but now it's common for them to selectively choose their projects or recommend an artist whose style aligns better with the client’s vision. Although this evolution can be seen as a positive development for the industry, it also diminishes the nostalgia associated with walk-in tattoo studios. As tattooing continues to evolve, I sense that only a few traditional street shops will remain in business, specifically catering to walk-ins and tattoo flash. I envision these tattoo shops evolving into spaces that evoke the same appreciation as visiting a vintage record store. Just as record stores offer a curated experience filled with nostalgia and personal connection, I believe tattoo studios can provide a similar atmosphere—one where clients feel a genuine connection to the artistry and history behind each piece. I am already observing some artists embracing this approach, taking the time to collect historical tattoo art and artifacts.
I’ve always felt as though I was standing on a bridge with tattooing, straddling the gap between past and present. I entered the industry when magazines were the primary source for quality tattoo work, relying on art books for references and using tracing paper and red Ticonderoga pencils to create designs. Now, with just a few clicks online, I can access stunning artwork and incredible references, many of the books I once treasured now available for free on the internet. The technology has evolved dramatically since I started. Back then, I would solder needle groupings onto a bar to create tattoos and meticulously scrub and disinfect grips and tubes before running them through the autoclave. Nothing was pre-made or sterilized in a factory. I began with coil tattoo machines, and now I use a rotary pen that operates on batteries and cartridge needles. Despite the frustrations I faced along the way, I am grateful for my early experiences in tattooing, as they have deepened my appreciation for how easy and safe the craft has become.
As I contemplate my future, I often find myself considering a career change, a reflection shared by many artists who have been tattooing for a long time. This thought doesn’t stem from a lack of love for the craft; I genuinely enjoy creating tattoos, even when faced with difficult requests or challenging clients. However, I can’t help but think about my physical health as I age, especially with younger artists entering the industry with skills that sometimes surpass my own. I wonder if I might be out of touch with younger clientele, who may prefer tattooers closer to their own age.I no longer feel as invincible as I did in my 20s and 30s. As aches and pains have crept in, I’ve taken proactive steps to stay healthy and active, joining a gym, swimming, and focusing on proper nutrition. My goal is to continue tattooing for at least another 10 years, embracing the craft I love while taking care of myself and those that depend on me.
