Growing up, my first job at age 15 was working at a local comic shop in Washington. I would ride my bike there after school, on weekends, and all summer long. Everything about it motivated me from doing grunt work at conventions to stocking the shelves with the latest issue. That summer I met so many amazing writers/artists who noticed my passion and encouraged me to stay out of trouble and into art. That’s the summer it all began.
After high school I attended college and a tech-school but nothing was a fit. I ended up bartending for 12 years and my art became a hobby of sorts. I would design T-shirts, posters, and fliers for our local bartenders “flair” competitions. During that time, Bobby a good friend of mine, motivated me to start drawing tattoo designs. At that instant, I fell in love with the industry. I then became so fascinated with tattooing that I had to try to get in and learn. Bobby eventually ended up buying me my very first machine. I owe him a lot for his motivation and constant faith in me.
It wasn’t easy, but with the guidance of other professional artists I landed a job in a small shop. I learned what I could there and through some ups and downs eventually landed my position at Forever Tattoo and Piercing in Vancouver, Washington. I have been at this shop for two years and counting and I love it. We are a diverse crew who each bring a different style and talent to the table. From going to conventions to doing charity events for our community I strive to change the rough persona of the tattoo industry one guest at a time.
I am beyond humbled to have won awards in a few categories such as “Best Asian” and “Best Cover-Up” at some local conventions I have attended. My art has also been on display at one of our local art galleries, Gallery 360, for their showcase of “inked” art work. I am confident that with the help of my wife and daughter as well as the amazing people that continue to motivate me day in and day out; I will continue to strive to do big things with my passion for art and the tattoo industry.
Here are some of the amazing people that I looked up to: Jim Lee, Todd McFarlane, Stan Lee and George Lucas. From Spiderman to Star wars, I love tattooing your inner nerd. Bring it, Let’s do it.