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

Gage, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

I got into tattooing while active duty in the Coast Guard. I would work in the marine science field in the morning and in the evening head into the shop to work on my apprenticeship. Later on I worked on building up clientele in the evenings while still working in the morning. Eventually my time in the Coast Guard came to an end and I transitioned basically from 6 hours at the shop to 8 hours and had the clientele to keep me busy. I worked outside of my apprenticeship along side the Coast Guard for 2 years before making the plunge and I’m grateful it was a smooth transition. I can’t say I’d do anything different since it all worked out.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Well my names Gage and I’m originally from Virginia. The military sent me all over the place till I ended up in Houston, TX. I’m married an have two step kids that are pretty rad. I offer my clients tattoos of various styles as I’m pretty open to take on about anything. My proudest accomplishment in this field is just being able to live a self employed lifestyle and provide for my family.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I used to have a second form of income being the Coast Guard which came to an abrupt end. So I had to really double down and put a lot more focus on tattooing. Keeping better logs, responding faster to clients, and all around raising the professionalism as this is 100% my life now.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

The major driving force of this field for me is providing for my wife and kids and proving a long list of people wrong. Also just trying to do the best tattoos I can while getting better.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @tattoosbygage