Based in Vancouver, Canada, Crystal Osaurus is a self-taught tattoo artist who prides herself on hard work, determination, and helping her clients find peace within and without themselves. From what we gathered in our interview with her, she revels in the art, the evolution of the art, and the gaining respect of the art. Most days you can find her hard at work at I-Kandy Tattoo & Piercing. Our Danailya Reese had the chance to probe Crystal’s mind, so sit back and get an inside look at a tattoo artist’s mind.
Let’s get the most generic portion of the interview out of the way…
What got you interested in the business?
I’ve always been interested in modifying my body and having my art as the main source of my income. I had just never thought tattooing would be something I would be able to do; I’ve always been super sensitive, and in this business, you need to have a tough skin. But in the end, the industry chose me, and it seems that as long as I keep trying to be better, it will continue to let me be a part of it.
How long did you apprentice and where?
I would like to say I apprenticed, but it didn’t work out that way. I started an apprenticeship on the island, but two months in my “mentor” jumped ship on the shop and I was left to learn on my own. It has been a stressful learning curve, and I have made mistakes, but persistence and hard work can get you anywhere.
How do you feel about apprenticeships?
I think apprenticeships are really important. I definitely believe it was a deficit to me to not have one. Apprenticeships allow you to learn from people who have made those mistakes, and who can show you how to avoid them. Instead of spending three years “figuring it out,” you get hands-on instruction on how to do it right the first time, which is huge for confidence and reputation. When you get a proper apprenticeship you do your first tattoo knowing you have the knowledge, theory, and time behind you.
Read the full interview: http://www.yellmagazine.com/crystal-osaurus-tattoo-artist-interview/79949/
Filed under: Interviews, Tattoo Artists, Yell! Magazine Tagged: apprenticeship, art, artists, arts, Canadian Artists, canadian content, conventions, Crystal Osaurus, Danailya Reese, I-Kandy Tattoo & Piercing, illustration, ink, inked, professional, talent, tattoo, tattoo artists, vancouver, Write & Ramble
