We were lucky to catch up with Karen Saakian recently and have shared our conversation below.

Karen, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

I have been tattooing for 12 years. My learning began with the basics when I first became interested in the art of tattooing. I spent a lot of time studying anatomy, artistic techniques, and tattoo styles. Practicing on friends and acquaintances helped me gain my initial skills. Over time, I attended workshops and seminars, and communicated with more experienced artists to learn from their experience. Each new work provided valuable experience and allowed me to improve. It was important not to rest on my laurels and to constantly seek new sources of inspiration and methods to enhance my craft.

Knowing what I know now, I would have focused more on structured learning and planning from the beginning. Creating a clear plan with specific goals would have helped me concentrate on important aspects and avoid unnecessary distractions. I would also have spent more time working with mentors and learning from other professionals in my field to gain insights and accelerate my progress.

The most essential skills were critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, as well as the capacity to adapt to new techniques and styles. Technical skills, such as understanding different tattooing methods and mastering various artistic techniques, were also crucial. Additionally, strong communication skills helped in understanding clients’ needs and translating their ideas into art.
The main obstacles were the lack of time and resources, as well as difficulties in accessing quality information and educational materials. Sometimes, it was hard to stay motivated, especially when the results weren’t immediately visible. However, overcoming these obstacles provided valuable experience and strengthened my determination to achieve my goals.

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

My name is Karén, and I have been a professional tattoo artist for 12 years. My journey into the world of tattooing began with a deep fascination for art and a desire to create lasting pieces that people could carry with them forever. I started by studying various artistic techniques, focusing on anatomy and styles specific to tattooing.

Over the years, I have developed a unique style that blends traditional and modern elements, allowing me to create custom tattoos that truly reflect the individuality of each client. I offer a wide range of tattoo services, from small, intricate designs to large, elaborate pieces. Each tattoo is crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

One of the key problems I solve for my clients is helping them express their personal stories and identities through art. Whether it’s a tribute to a loved one, a symbol of a significant life event, or simply a design that resonates with them, I work closely with each client to ensure their vision is realized.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my dedication to continuous learning and improvement. I regularly attend workshops and seminars to stay updated on the latest techniques and trends, and I am constantly experimenting with new styles and methods to enhance my craft. My clients appreciate my willingness to listen and collaborate, making the tattooing process a truly personalized experience.

I am most proud of the trust and loyalty I have built with my clients over the years. Many of them return for multiple tattoos and refer their friends and family to me, which is the highest compliment I could receive.

The main thing I want potential clients and followers to know about me and my work is that I am passionate about creating meaningful, high-quality tattoos that my clients can cherish for a lifetime. My studio is a welcoming space where creativity and professionalism meet, ensuring every client feels comfortable and confident in their decision to get tattooed by me.

Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?

I find NFTs to be a fascinating development in the world of digital art and ownership. They provide a new way for artists to monetize their work and connect directly with their audience without the need for intermediaries. The ability to prove ownership and authenticity of digital art through blockchain technology is revolutionary and opens up numerous possibilities for creative expression and distribution.

For tattoo artists, NFTs can offer an innovative way to showcase and sell digital designs, offering clients a unique and verifiable piece of art. It also allows for the creation of limited editions or exclusive rights to certain designs, adding a new dimension to how we think about and value art.

However, there are also challenges and criticisms associated with NFTs, such as environmental concerns due to the energy consumption of blockchain networks and the volatility of the NFT market. It’s important for artists and buyers to be informed and considerate of these factors when engaging with NFTs.

Overall, I believe NFTs have great potential to transform the art world, but like any new technology, they need to be approached with awareness and responsibility.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to bring someone’s vision to life and create something that has a lasting impact. When I see the joy and satisfaction on a client’s face after completing a tattoo that means a lot to them, it’s an incredibly fulfilling experience. Knowing that my art can hold such personal significance and become a part of someone’s story is truly special.

Another rewarding aspect is the continuous growth and learning that comes with being a creative. Every project presents new challenges and opportunities to push my boundaries and refine my skills. The artistic journey is one of constant evolution, and I find great satisfaction in seeing my progress over time.

Finally, the connection and relationships I build with my clients are immensely rewarding. Tattooing is a very personal process, and it allows me to connect with people on a deeper level. These connections often lead to long-term relationships, where clients return for multiple tattoos and refer their friends and family to me. This trust and loyalty are the highest compliments I can receive as an artist.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Skinartlab

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