We recently connected with J Luis SF and have shared our conversation below.

Hi J Luis, thanks for joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

A couple of years ago, I took a giant leap: I immigrated to the United States without knowing English very well. In Lima, Peru, I already had my own space as a tattoo artist, with loyal clients and a studio that felt like home. But I felt the need for a change and to challenge myself.

The opportunity presented itself in New York, at InkNation Studio. Although I knew I would face challenges in such a competitive city, I decided to take the risk and pursue my passion. The first months were tough with the language barrier, but my love for tattooing overcame any obstacle.

At InkNation Studio, I found a new home and a team that supported my learning and growth. In just two years in the city I won two awards at prestigious conventions,(2nd place category: best large at the new york tattoo convention 2022 and 1st place category: best traditional at empire state new york tattoo expo 2023) thanks to the support of my colleagues and the vibrant tattooing community in New York.

Beyond the awards, I’ve had the chance to collaborate and learn from incredible artists in the tattoo world. My journey from Lima to New York has been a rollercoaster of challenges, but every achievement and every tattoo is proof that taking that risk was worth it. Though I miss my home, I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow as an artist in this city that never ceases to inspire.

J Luis, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m J-Luis SF, a Peruvian tattoo artist with over a decade of experience. My journey began while I’ve been studying graphic design, leading to open my own studio in Miraflores, Lima. What sets me apart is an insatiable desire to learn. I garnered awards at national and international conventions. In 2022, I moved to the U.S., getting to know new cultures, enhancing skills, and navigating a new language. My pride is to create a space where clients trust me to turn their ideas into lasting art. I go beyond tattooing; I delve into clients’ stories for personalized, identity-connecting pieces. I want people to know me for unwavering artistic dedication, customer satisfaction commitment, and constant evolution. Each tattoo is more than art; it’s a unique, meaningful expression on my clients’ skin.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Society can support artists by recognizing the value of art, providing accessible education, ensuring fair compensation, increasing public funding, fostering community engagement, embracing digital platforms, promoting diversity, encouraging collaboration, advocating for mental health, and promoting art appreciation. This comprehensive approach creates a supportive environment for artists to thrive and contribute to cultural enrichment.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

People who aren’t into creative work might not get how personal and emotionally intense it is. The fear of judgment and the deep connection to what’s created can be hard for them to relate to. Creativity isn’t a straightforward process, and finding a balance between passion and practicality is tricky. They might not realize the invisible work that happens before a final product or understand how inspiration can be unpredictable. Closing this gap in understanding can help everyone communicate and relate better.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jluissf.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jluis.sf/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jluis.sf.art
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jluis.sf