We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ana Gonzalez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Ana, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

As a tattoo artist and painter who transitioned from a software developer, I find immense joy in expressing myself creatively. The freedom and fulfillment I experience in my artistic endeavors surpass any thoughts of returning to a regular job. Every painting and artwork is a reminder of the passion that drives me forward.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Ana Gonzalez, a Miami native, has deepened her artistic journey through large-scale oil and acrylic paintings, exploring her Cuban-American heritage. Following her Bachelors in Painting with a minor in Art History from the University of Miami, she embraced a dynamic shift post-pandemic. Ana transitioned seamlessly into the world of tattoo artistry, where she now dedicates her time to both painting and tattooing, creating a vibrant fusion of traditional and contemporary expressions in her full-time artistic pursuits.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and tattooist is undoubtedly the profound connection with my clients. Creating meaningful, permanent artworks on their skin and witnessing the emotional impact it carries brings immense fulfillment. The vibrant, creative environment I’m immersed in amplifies this joy, making every piece a unique celebration of personal expression and shared artistic passion.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

A crucial lesson I had to unlearn in my creative journey was the habit of constantly comparing myself to others. This tendency hindered my growth and stifled the natural flow of my creativity. Recognizing that perfectionism wasn’t conducive to artistic development was a pivotal realization.

Contact Info:

• Website: Inkedbyana.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/inkedbyana
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/anamgonzalezart
• Other: https://anamgonzalezart.com/ My paintings and Artist CV

Image Credits
Headshot: Michael Fryd https://www.michaelfryd.com/ Action shot in home studio: Kenneth Ortiz https://www.instagram.com/kopshotthekid?igsh=MTR1amV5ZWRncGo4cQ== Convention shots: Fall Out Media https://www.instagram.com/fallout.media?igsh=YnhybWlia2hhOGpi