We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Erin MacAdams. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Erin below.

Erin, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I’ve carefully collected knowledge of many different art forms. I read everything I could find, starting with artist biographies especially Van Gogh. I focused on drawing while getting my undergraduate degree. I still practice figure and portrait drawing weekly. Because I live in Oregon I also went to a tattoo trade school to learn the basics of tattooing. I am always learning and striving to grow in my technical application and creativity. Knowing what I know now I think my learning process grew naturally and I wouldn’t change it. It gives me my inspirations. It was always about the passion for the creative process and its a big part of my life.
I learned a lot about color theory and line quality. I think learning a wide mix of materials was essential. Learning to really see and to use your artistic eye to edit is my most valued skill. I had to learn to work with confidence as well. Very important especially for steady linework.
Obstacles have been time money energy. I have a family that I have to support and sometimes creating so much can lead to burnout. But I’ve learned to set aside time to rest and so things like cuddle our cats or play switch games.

Erin, 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?

I got into my industry through work time and schooling. Especially tattooing requires you to learn a lot of different techniques and details. I tattoo out of Studio 72 in SE Portland OR. I have tattooed since 2016. I offer illustrative colorful neotraditional witchy nature inspired custom or flash tattoos. I also offer acrylic and digital commissions. These are often portraits, pet portraits, original or dnd characters and landscapes.
I really work with you to collaborate on the perfect design for your tattoo idea or commission. Communication and trust is so important in the world of tattooing. I am queer and trans. I know it is important to make folks feel comfortable when coming to me to get a tattoo or art.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

The best way to support art and artists is to share their work. Tell people about artists or tattooers you had a good experience working with. And of course spending your money on their art is an awesome way to support the arts.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to use my art to connect with others. Whether its personal art describing my feelings or experiences or collaborative art with my tattoo clients. I believe art is a way to tell our stories and work through emotions.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://erinmcreates.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erin_m_creates/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinmacart/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmtattoo