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

Hi Jose, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

My life has always been about taking risks. I came to the U.S. from Mexico at just two years old, and for years, I lived as an undocumented immigrant. Growing up, I had to navigate a world where work meant being paid under the table and every day was a struggle to make ends meet. But everything changed when I found tattooing.

At 15, I picked up my first tattoo machine and fell in love with the craft, but it was far from easy. In the beginning, I practiced on anyone willing to give me a shot, often making mistakes and learning the hard way. There were times when I felt like I was ruining people’s skin, but I kept going, determined to improve. Tattooing was my passion, but I still had to support myself through odd jobs, many of which had nothing to do with art. Even when I wasn’t making money from tattooing, I refused to quit.

I kept grinding, refining my style, and eventually, my persistence paid off. People began to seek me out. What started as a hustle turned into something more—something real. Through every risk I’ve taken, from being undocumented to pursuing a career in tattooing, I learned that taking chances is what shapes you. Those struggles are part of my story, and they’ve made me who I am today.

Jose, 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?

My name is Jose Araujo, and my introduction to tattooing started with my dad. He would tattoo homies, cousins, uncles—anyone willing. As a kid, I’d sit and watch the whole process, mesmerized by it. As time went on, my dad stopped tattooing as much, and I eventually picked up his tools and ran with them. That’s how I got pulled into the world of tattooing.

I threw myself into learning everything I could—listening to interviews, collecting old tattoo books, and talking to any tattooer willing to share their time. Early on, I learned the most valuable lesson: be quiet and listen. I took in every word, never questioned their advice, and trusted their guidance. I was lucky to meet the right people along the way—artists who taught me discipline and the importance of what we do and why we care so deeply about it.

I also met a friend early on who helped me understand the business side of tattooing. That opened up new opportunities and gave me the confidence to grow. But through it all, I lived by one mantra: DIY—do it yourself, because no one’s going to hand it to you. It’s a mindset I’ve carried with me to this day.

I’m a tattooer, artist, publisher, and everything in between. But at the core of it all, tattooing is my main focus. From single-needle tattoos to bold traditional designs, I’ve learned to handle anything that comes through the door, taking pride in caring for every client who trusts me with their projects.

That same level of dedication extends to my work as a publisher, especially with Street Magic, a project I’m incredibly proud of. The magazine has been receiving great feedback, and knowing how much time and effort I pour into every issue, it’s rewarding to see it resonate with people. Each publication is a labor of love, from working closely with artists to curating content that truly represents their vision.

What sets me apart is my willingness to put in the hard work to get things just right—not just for myself but for everyone I work with. Whether it’s tattooing or publishing, I strive to make each project look the way I envision it while still delivering what my clients or collaborators want.

What I’m most proud of is when people see my work and immediately recognize that it’s mine. Whether it’s the way I shade a tattoo or the unique tricks I use to set my designs apart, that distinctiveness is something not many tattooers can claim. Being able to do something a little different than the rest is what keeps me pushing forward.

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

Here’s a refined version of your powerful message, keeping your passion and vision intact:

With tattooing, my goal is to leave a lasting mark in a saturated industry. There are thousands of tattooers out there, but if I can leave something behind that inspires even one kid or person, then I know I’m doing it right—especially within my own community. If someone out there, maybe a kid struggling in high school but passionate about music, art, photography, or anything at all, sees my work and feels motivated, that’s what it’s all about.

If you love something, you fight for it, you succeed for it. That’s what drives me—to pursue what I love and hopefully inspire others to do the same. My mission won’t be complete until I’m gone, but if my name and my work still linger, then maybe I’ve succeeded.

The same goes for my work in publishing. I want the magazines and books I create to outlive me, to be something people seek out long after I’m gone. I hope Street Magic and the books I produce are collected, cared for, and appreciated. That’s the legacy I want to leave behind—something that stands the test of time.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

The best thing people can do is simple: share the work. Just sharing the work and showing others the artists you admire goes a long way. Nothing beats word of mouth. Stop keeping your favorite artists a secret, because if you keep them hidden, they’ll slowly fade away. Share their work so they can thrive and continue creating. They’ll remember you for it.

Contact Info:

• Website: josearaujomartinez.com & www.streetmagicsupply.com
• Instagram: @JoseAraujoMartinez
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoseAraujoMartinez

Image Credits

Ethan Lopez, Jose Araujo