Name: Amanda Grace Leadman
Age: 26
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Age: 26
Location: Philadelphia, PA
What attracted you to tattooing?
"I was attracted to tattoos first of course, they have this underground appeal that goes along with an attraction to art and music. nothing seemed more exciting!"
How did you get into the industry?
"I was getting a tattoo at 'New Breed', now Truth and Triumph in Dayton Ohio. it was my 19th birthday. i was going to school for art and Tony Siemer, my artist, asked why to see some of my art work. i showed him and he encouraged me saying that i too could be a tattoo artist! after that conversation, that is all I could think about."
Was it hard to find an apprenticeship?
"I waited about 6 months and really made sure tattooing is what i wanted to pursue. i went and found Brian Brenner the owner, brought pictures of all of my artwork and simply asked. Thankfully, he agreed to apprentice me! It was a traditional apprenticeship and I was naive when i went for it. I couldn't be happier i got in with such a great shop."
How many years have you been tattooing?
I have been tattooing professionally now for 6 years.
What inspires you?
"I guess i get most inspired my organic things, anything that you can make move in whatever direction you need. I also love very geometric tattoos and would like to try that style out more."
Who are your favourite tattoo artists?
"I am such a huge fan of so many artists I worked with in Dayton through the years. i hate to lump them together but I admire everyone at Truth and Triumph Tattoo. Also, Jason Vaughn is one of my favorites, Travis McGregor, Claire Reid, Marcus Maguire in Scotland, Josh Woods, Timmy B and of course Shige and Thomas Hooper. blah blah I could go on and on..."
How would you describe your tattoo style?
"I suppose I would describe my tattoo style as a mish mash of all of the above except for lost somewhere and can't get quite there haha."
What have you learned in your years in the industry?
"I have learned so much how would i even start! the short of it is... no matter what you are doing, do it honestly and work hard at it. Put people before money and God before any of it, you can't go wrong. Oh and put more black in your tattoos or else you'll get harassed by old timers ."
What advice do you have to people considering careers in tattooing?
"My advice to any future tattooers: fuck em all, you can do it! Draw more than physically possible and keep the above stuff in mind!"
What are some of the best things you have experienced as a result of your career?
"I can't tell you how many insane people I have met and wonderful places i have been, the doorway being tattooing. This industry has a bond that can not be explained and i could not be more thankful to be a part of it. "
Where do you currently tattoo?
Currently at No Ka Oi Tiki Tattoo in Philly
