Today we’d like to introduce you to Charlene Holland.
Hi Charlene, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up loving art of all sorts. Drawing, painting, craft projects, etc. Anytime anyone seen me drawing I was told my art work looked like tattoo art. I loved the idea of being a tattoo artist however Tattooing always seemed taboo and out of reach for me.
I reached out to a few artists and shops to see about getting started in the industry but was always shut down.
My significant other wanted tattoos so I took him to get tattooed. Naturally he wanted to keep going back for more. Tattoos are not cheap and I thought it would help save us money if I could tattoo him. So I did my research and got all the equipment needed and I tattooed him. It felt natural for me. Literally like pen to paper. As I continued to tattoo him, family and friends started to notice and wanted tattoos from me as well and I obliged. It took me a few years to get in a shop. The artists I approached didn’t want a self starter under them or my art was not their style or I didn’t fit their aesthetic just to name a few reasons I got. I refused to give up and I continued to hone my tattoo skills over a couple years and eventually my name was out in the tattoo community in Nashville. I was approached by a shop owner who allowed me to work in his shop while I earned my license. After a few years I change shops to Painful Genius Art and Tattoo. My name has continued to grow and I’ve started to get more clients and even out of town/state clients who drive and fly hours to get art done by me. Being in a shop that helps motivate you and being around other artist who love the craft too is a big positive. Being able to call myself a tattoo artist and have this for my career is a dream and I love it!! Not everyone gets to have a career that they love!!! A few of my kids are showing interest in this industry so I hope to pass my legacy on down to them.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Becoming a tattoo artist was hard as the community was very gate kept and unless you know someone who knows someone. becoming an apprentice is hard no matter how good your art is.
Being a tattoo artist has its ups and downs. It’s definitely a lifestyle that takes ALOT of your time and mental energy. I’ve lost friends because I don’t have alot of extra time available or I am not giving them free services at the drop of a hat. My significant other and kids miss me a lot. So it’s hard on my family lifestyle as well.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m tattoo artist for 15 years now. I’m known for my cover ups and color work. I’m also knowledgeable on a variety of skin types and tones. I’ve proven that tattoos can be beautifully done on any skin color!
I also think I have pretty awesome customer service with my clients. I want my clients to always feel comfortable with me and know their art is done by someone who actually cares.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Keep drawing and continuing to hone your drawing skills while looking for a mentor that’s close to your style. It’s not gonna happen over night. It may even take you multiple attempts with multiple artists but don’t give up. Be able to take constructive criticism. Find a shop what you are comfortable in and helps you move forward not stagnant.
Pricing:
- My popular sessions is Mini tap out session. It is 6 hours session for $550
- All day session for 1-2 people. It is a 11 hour session for $1050-$1150
- 1 hour $170
- 2 hour $290
- 3 hour $410
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bookwithtattoocharlene.as.me/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tattoocharlene
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tattoocharlene615
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089147059459&mibextid=nwBsNb
