Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jasmine Martinez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Jasmine , thanks for joining us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
I think deep down, I’ve always known I was meant to do something creative. Art was my safe space growing up. Whether I was sketching in my notebooks, customizing clothes, or just finding new ways to express myself visually, creating was something I turned to naturally. But the moment I realized I wanted to pursue it professionally came later.
The real turning point in my journey happened during a time when I felt lost and unsure of what direction to take, but I was craving something meaningful. I had been accepted into the college I’d always dreamed of attending, hoping to become an art teacher, but when it turned out I couldn’t afford it, everything shifted. I suddenly found myself questioning what to pursue next, but one thing never changed: I knew I wanted my future to involve art.
During that time, I was constantly drawing and sharing my work, and I started receiving a lot of love and encouragement from the people around me. One day, my brother asked if I had ever considered tattooing. At first, I brushed it off. It wasn’t something I had seriously thought about, but the idea stuck with me. I began researching, watching tattoo artists work, and the more I learned, the more it all started to click. The thought that I could take something I already loved and turn it into permanent art that people would wear on their bodies felt incredibly powerful and fulfilling.
I’ll never forget the first time I actually tattooed someone’s skin. The rush I got from someone loving my work so much that they were excited to have it on them forever was unforgettable. That’s when I knew this was what I wanted to do. Not just create, but connect. Tattooing gave me that balance: creative freedom, expression, and the opportunity to leave lasting marks that mean something to people.
From that moment forward, I dedicated myself to learning everything I could. It wasn’t always easy, but every challenge has helped shape the artist and person I am today.
Jasmine , 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?
Hi! My name is Jasmine, and I’m a tattoo artist with a deep passion for creating meaningful, personal artwork that people can carry with them for life. My journey into tattooing started with a conversation I had during a tattoo session with an artist I admired. I mentioned how much I loved what he did and dreamed of turning my art into something more. That simple conversation led to an apprenticeship offer, and over time, I found myself completely in love with the craft. Now, we work together in the same shop, and I’m incredibly grateful for the path that led me here.
Tattooing, for me, is about more than just creating something beautiful . It’s about the experience. I wanted to build a space where people feel safe, respected, and seen, especially women, women-presenting individuals, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Getting tattooed is a vulnerable experience, and I understand the anxiety that can come with it. That’s why I’ve made it my goal to offer a calm, friendly, and welcoming environment where clients feel like they’re being tattooed by a friend. That connection is what sets me apart.
I offer tattoos that are rooted in emotion, intention, and personal style. Whether it’s a delicate script, a bold design, or something deeply meaningful, I pour care and attention into every piece. My aim is for each person to walk away not just with a tattoo they love, but also with a positive experience they can cherish.
What I’m most proud of is the trust I’ve built with my clients and the growth I’ve experienced as both an artist and a person. More than anything, I want people to know that my work is about connection, creativity, and comfort. Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, I’m here to make the process as meaningful and memorable as the art itself.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the thrill of seeing someone so happy with your work. There’s nothing like seeing a client light up when they see their tattoo finished, or hearing how much it means to them. Knowing that my creativity can make someone feel seen, empowered, or understood makes everything worth it. That emotional exchange, and the lasting bond it creates, is what keeps me passionate about what I do every single day.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Yes, there’s definitely a mission behind my creative journey. For me, it’s about creating a safe, welcoming, and empowering space for my clients, especially women and those in the LGBTQ+ community, to feel comfortable getting tattooed. I know firsthand how vulnerable it can feel to be in that chair. I’ve personally had experiences where a tattoo artist made inappropriate comments and made me feel uncomfortable during what should’ve been an exciting, empowering moment. I remember thinking, “I don’t want to do this again unless it’s with someone who makes me feel safe.”
That experience really stuck with me, and it’s a big part of what drives me as a tattoo artist. I want to be that safe person for others, someone who not only creates art that people love but also provides an environment where they feel seen, respected, and completely at ease. It’s not always easy to find an artist who understands your style and also makes you feel genuinely comfortable, especially as a woman. I hope to be that person for my clients, someone they trust to bring their ideas to life while also feeling good and safe through the entire process.
