Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nikola Ivana. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nikola , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

Being an artist is all I’ve ever known. My mom is an artist and was an art teacher for many years. I’ve grown up playing with every medium that she could give me. I loved it so much, I never really explored doing anything other than something creative. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. The only other job outside of art that I’ve thought of is being a flight attendant as I love to travel. Even if I had to change careers I would still do art. Any job has its blessings and pitfalls but I’m so lucky to be able to make money off of something I love doing.

Nikola , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Nikola Ivana and I’m an LA based tattooer. I love tattooing anything nature related or riffing off of traditional designs. My biggest joy is tattooing my own flash and working with people to give them something they love forever. Getting something that alters you permanently is a pretty intense experience. It’s so important for people to feel comfortable, heard, and that their artist really wants them to get something that they can have control over, that allows them to love themself more. If I can give someone a tattoo that makes them feel better in their skin, I’ve done my job.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my opinion, it’s so important for people to share their favorite artists by word of mouth and over social media. It’s so hard to promote yourself. I’m so grateful for people who support me, get tattoos by me, or buy my paintings and it feels difficult to ask for the extra mile of sharing. Suggesting people to follow us or check us out goes such a long way. In a changing world where everything is being factory made or when AI is being used in place of artists, sharing businesses and artists you love can change our lives.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I took more marketing and financial classes in college. When you’re an artist as your job/small business you have to be so much more than an artist. You have to be your own marketing team, accountant, etc. It’s something I should take classes in now. It’s never too late but I wish I started paying attention sooner.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nikolaivanatattoo.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikola.ivana/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@nikola.ivana