We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jade Shaylee . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jade below.
Jade , 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?
I’m so thankful for the job I have, as a kid I was always against the idea of having a 9-5 job. I used to tell my parents all the time, I’m never gonna work a business job. It was always so superficial to me, it felt like I was put into a box and had no other option. I think being a Tattoo Artist really allows you to not only express yourself but to make your own schedule, be your own boss, and live by your own rules.
I think that has always been very important to me as not only a person but as my own boss, to feel like I’m in control of what comes my way.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Jade, I’m a 23 year old professional tattoo artist and have been tattooing now for three years. When I was young art was the only thing I was passionate about, wether it was a math paper or a canvas I was doodling, sketching, or whatever have you. When I graduated highschool the college life didn’t seem appealing to me. I’ve always been more on the creative side so sitting in a classroom to learn more felt like I was straying away from what I was meant to do. When I was 19 I started an apprenticeship and soared afterwards. I deep-dived into my passions and created meaningful art that would be on people forever! A lot of my clients will come in and have maybe just a concept for what they are wanting done, but can’t quite make it come to life. All I need are a few key words, maybe a reference and 9 times out of ten I can create something they’ll want for life. When it comes to setting myself apart from everyone else in the industry I feel like my diverse style allows me to not be put into a box, I don’t do just black n grey, and I don’t just do color. If it can translate on skin I’m your girl! I truly want each and every client I have to be proud of what they wear on their skin. I’m proud that I’m able to communicate effectively with my clients, I love hearing their ideas and backstories to what creates the pieces I’ll be creating. When you are in my chair, comfort and communication is key! I want everyone to feel relaxed, safe, and welcome. That no idea is too big, too small. Working together when it comes to the client/artist ratio is the most important part of creating together.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
When I first started after my apprenticeship, finding a safe space was very hard. I started in a “street shop” one of those where they just wanted to get you in and out and not care what they were giving you, as long as it put money in their pocket. I dealt with sexual harassment, crude behavior, and loss of a sense of pride in not only myself but my work. When I left it was a search to find somewhere that felt like home. I can’t say it’s been easy at all. Finding the right balance, of people who strive for the same things as you when it comes to creating and being an all around decent human being. As I’ve grown not only as an artist but as a person I’ve realized that not everyone will see things the way you see them, or want the best for people like I have always strived for. But once you find it, the people who are determined, goal oriented, and out here pushing towards the same dream. Everything falls into place, sometimes you have to go through the bad to know what you won’t settle for again. I now know my place and I’m going to continue to push for greatness no matter the obstacles or set backs I face in the process.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
When I started all of this three years ago I truly thought that this career would be for me. That it would save me, mentally and physically that I would be able to make art for myself and be my own boss etc. What I didn’t realize was that it wasn’t that at all, creating art for other people is the most rewarding aspect in itself. A lot of the times a tattoo session turns into a therapy session, I’ve heard some stories that at the end of the session you’re hugging a stranger you just met a day ago because their story touched your heart. Sometimes you as the artist get to talk about your life, what got you here, the battles you faced. It’s so much more intimate than people make it out to be. Yes sometimes it is just an impulsive decision someone makes and they are in and out in a blink of an eye. But the ones where you go home and think wow I get to do this for a job are so rewarding. I wouldn’t do it any differently than I have because I am so grateful for what I get to learn from others by being there for them as an artist and person.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @jadesbodyart
- Facebook: Jade Shaylee
- Other: Email: Jsfranklin61@gmail.com