www.reneeruin.com: Featured Tattoo Artist

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Featured Tattoo Artist | Joe Ellis

Name: Joe Ellis
Age: 23
Location: Newcastle, England

What attracted you to tattooing?

Being able to draw for a living more than anything.

How did you get into the industry?

I spent around 3 years making a portfolio of work I liked (which I funnily enough hate now), more than anything though I spent so long because I wanted to make sure I had worked hard enough for the opportunity.

Was it hard to find an apprenticeship?

During the 3 years I was drawing I did occasionally show some people and try to make something of it, but I was a bit of a push over and I used to get told 'maybe, here, try a trial period, draw these tattoos for me and we shall see' and then never get anything further than this. There was a lot of on the spot rejection before people had even seen my work or said hello.

How many years have you been tattooing?

Around 1 year now.

What inspires you?

Myself, in a weird way. I get inspired by things I haven't done rather than things I've seen. Occasionally some things do make me want to go paint or draw, such as films or jokes between me and friends.

Who are your favourite tattoo artists?

I have a lot of favourites, all for different reasons but my all time favourites have to be the people I'm closest to, at the shop and friends. I don't want to name names because I'm scared I will miss someone.

What have you learned in your years in the industry?

A lot, but not a lot at the same time. I feel like I'm learning more about myself and my work than about the industry and others.

What advice do you have to people considering careers in tattooing?

Don't, ha! joke. If you want to do it do it, but in my opinion you can tell the difference between people's work and why they do it just through their work. Be prepared to be let down and miserable, but if you work hard, you'll do great. (I was never any good at motivational speeches).