@tattoosbytina isn't just about tattoos. She also loves riding motorcycles, skating, and hanging out with her cat Cheezeburger.
Posted May 31st 2017
1. Could you please tell the story of how you became a tattooer?
In 2011, six months after I graduated from art school, I decided that I was going to pursue tattooing. I was given the invitation to hang out at the tattoo shop on the weekends. It wasn't anything official, but eventually turned into an apprenticeship. I finally found something I was passionate about, so I had to just dive in and I haven't looked back since.
2. What are some of the obstacles you have had to overcome working in a male-dominated industry?
A lot of people I've worked with have this idea that all women are overly dramatic and change the atmosphere of the tattoo shop. Some men won't even hire women for that reason. I can see how that may have been an issue back in the day when it was only sailors and bikers getting tattooed, but nowadays there are people of all ages and sexes in the tattoo shop. I believe women will always have to prove that we got to where we are at because of our work, and not for other assumed reasons.
3. What are some of the core principles and values you believe are important to live by?
I've learned that being respectful and open-minded get you far in life. So many people, especially artists, are naturally selfish when it comes to creating their work. If you look to what is being created around you, you tend to grow much more as an individual.
4. What is the best thing your grandmother's cook?
My favorite thing they would make were their Greek pastries. We would get them during the holidays. Luckily, my mom still makes all of that and has passed the traditions down to my generation.
5. What do you like most about riding your motorcycle?
There's a thrill that comes with it. Riding in LA is garbage, but once you get to those open roads your world changes. Nothing else really matters at that point.
6. Tell me one Tina fun fact....
I'm a crazy cat lady and my cat's name is Cheezeburger.
7. You used to work at a skate shop; could you tell me a bit about that?
I worked at a bicycle/skate shop when I was in college. I was hired because of my experience with skating, but it's actually where my love for cycling was born. I worked mainly in the skate shop, ordering parts and building boards for people. It was a fun job and I met quite a few friends through cycling at that time.
8. What do you want for your next birthday?
My next birthday I would like to travel. Whether it's to a foreign country or camping somewhere local. I would just like to be away from home and see something new.
9. What does it mean to have courage?
To have courage, you must face your fears. The goal is to overcome those fears, but sometimes just facing them is the hardest part. Doubt is a very real thing that we all experience at times, but without doubt, we would never feel the joy of accomplishment.
10. Describe empowered....
Feeling like you have everything you need to accomplish your goals. I feel empowered every time I'm around my super talented and successful girlfriends.
11. What is the best advice you have ever received?
You learn from your mistakes. Every time I create a piece of work it is a stepping stone to mastering that craft.
12. When learning to tattoo what tools did you use to practice?
Before I was able to tattoo I would paint flash. It's the groundwork for traditional tattooing. Trying to get a grasp on the design is the first step. Once I started tattooing, I was lucky enough to have friends that let me practice on them. I used my legs as practice when I didn't have anybody else to work on. I feel grateful for all the people who trusted me enough to lend me their skin.
13. What advice would you give to a woman who is thinking of entering a male-dominated industry and what are some tricks you think are worth passing on?
Keep your head up and stay focused on your craft. If you work hard, everything else will fall into place.
