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

Marissa, appreciate you joining us today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Art is such a broad field and it has a life of its own. Over the past 10 years of doing art shows, tattooing, painting, etc I’ve learned that adaptability is one of the most important traits an artist can have. Whether that relates to the freedom within an individual art piece, or that relates to the overall path in which your art might take over the course of years. I frequently have to remind myself that it’s okay to grow past the bubble I thought I would live in forever.

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

I started my career in art primarily through going to college. I had been involved in the art community beforehand but did almost all of my growing during art school. After I graduated, I began pursuing tattooing, and as I worked to gain more experience I was able to establish myself as a full time artist.

I tattoo my own drawings as well as create custom designs for clients. The most important thing for me has always been to have an honest and respectable career where I can service anybody and everybody in a safe, and comfortable way.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I primarily built my audience through friends, and then friends of friends. Word of mouth has been my primary method of growth, I’m very open about what I do, and I’m always eager and happy to share that. Generally just being a nice person and being open about who I am tends to draw and keep like-minded people in my circle.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Making art accessible to everyone is something I’m constantly thinking about. Historically the art world hasn’t been the most open door, so as I continue to grow and expand I always try my best to stay mindful of the collective. I think it’s important for people to have art in their homes/with them.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.instagram.com/marissakaytattoo
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/marissakayart
• Other: www.seahagtattoo.com