Name: Megan Jean Morris
Age: 31
Location: Wallingford, Connecticut, USA
What attracted you to tattooing?
Two things: 1- the thought of artwork walking around being seen, worn, and enjoyed by everyone... not just museum-goers. And 2 - I was inspired by the courage it takes to get a tattoo when you know some people will not approve. Also by the on going situation that being a tattooed person creates; a situation where one is called upon to be himself or herself with others since, unlike clothing, you cannot change your "outfit" of ink to fit in.
How did you get into the industry?
Begging mostly
Was it hard to find an apprenticeship?
Yes.
How many years have you been tattooing?
My apprenticeship was 7 years ago. Like many artists... it took a few years before I realized I wanted to take it seriously, make it my life.
What inspires you?
Dark Beauty; things people go through that make them who they have become.
Who are your favourite tattoo artists?
Too many to name... but I look up to Nikko Hurtado because he was my first mentor/idol and he changed the industry with his realistic style. I am inspired by several black and grey artists: Teneile Napoli, Carlos Torres, Josh Duffy, Stefano Alcantara, Jose Lopez Jr., Carl Grace and Toxyc... and the I have to credit Paul Booth and Bob Tyrell. Some of the color artists I am blown away by are Dmitriy Samohin, Paul Acker, Nick Baxter, Liz Cook, and Alex de Pase.
How would you describe your tattoo style?
Surrealism. That is, I like creating realistic imagery, but mixed up in unrealistic context to tell a story or convey a feeling.
What have you learned in your years in the industry?
Mostly to be humble, keep learning, develop my own voice as an artist, be confident and try hard. Also, currently, it seems that Big Gus had it right when he said "To be great at one thing, you have to give up everything".
If you weren't tattooing what would you be doing?
I was a well-rounded-good-at-
What advice do you have to people considering careers in tattooing?
Find a really solid apprenticeship... without a good foundation a building will suck at tattooing!
What are some of the best things you have experienced as a result of your career?
Honestly,the love and relatedness I get to have with my clients. I can't believe how many people I get to know on such a deep level... it's an honor. And since I don't spend much time socializing, I think huge would-be voids get filled by having clients who are like friends... but unlike "normal" friends I get to make art and be productive while we hangout. The other best thing is all of the artist friends I get to have around the world. Meeting people who relate to me... and me to them. I couldn't be more thankful for the life tattooing has brought me.
Where do you currently tattoo?
I have my own shop in Wallingford, Connecticut. I tattoo there most of the time. I also travel more and more to conventions around the USA and this year, I am beginning to attend some conventions outside of the US.
Instagram : meganjeanmorris
