We were lucky to catch up with Paul Jack recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Paul, thanks for joining us today. Are you 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?

I have been earning a full time living as a professional tattoo artist for the past sixteen years. My journey went from an apprentice, working long hours and not earning anything to fully funding my lifestyle. In the beginning it was tough but the sacrifice paid off eventually.

Paul, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

For those who may not know me yet, I’m a tattoo artist and creative who’s passionate about turning personal stories, emotions, and visions into lasting works of art.

I got into tattooing because I’ve always loved drawing and painting—it was my way of expressing myself from an early age. Over time, I realized that tattooing allows me to connect with people on a deeper level, helping them wear their stories, milestones, and memories with pride. There’s something powerful about creating art that becomes a permanent part of someone’s life.

What I offer is custom, one-of-a-kind tattoos. My focus is on creating pieces that reflect each client’s individuality, whether it’s through intricate designs, bold styles, or more meaningful, detailed work. Beyond that, I also invest time in painting and other creative outlets, which help me stay inspired and keep my style fresh.

The problem I solve for my clients is helping them bring their ideas to life with precision and care. A lot of people come to me knowing what they feel but not quite how to translate it into a design. I work closely with each client to collaborate, refine, and create art that fits their vision and looks incredible for years to come.

What sets me apart is the attention I give to both the design and the experience. I want people to feel comfortable, heard, and excited during the process. It’s not just about getting a tattoo—it’s about creating a meaningful connection and an experience they’ll remember as part of their journey.

I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built through my work. Seeing clients light up when they see their tattoo for the first time or hearing how much a piece means to them is what drives me. It’s those moments that remind me why I love what I do.

For potential clients and followers, I want you to know that my work is rooted in passion, collaboration, and respect for the craft. Whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth, I’m here to guide you through the process, create something special, and make sure you leave feeling happy and proud of your new piece of art.

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

I think society can best support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem by recognizing the value of creativity and treating it as an essential part of our culture, not a luxury.

One of the biggest things is for people to respect and invest in artists’ work and time. Art is everywhere—tattoos, murals, design, music, fashion—but often, artists are undervalued or expected to work for “exposure” instead of fair compensation. Supporting artists by paying for their work, sharing their creations, and recommending them to others goes a long way in helping creatives build sustainable careers.

Access to education and opportunities is also key. Encouraging art programs in schools, funding creative workshops, and creating more platforms for emerging artists allows talent to develop and thrive. Not everyone has access to expensive art schools or supplies, so community support—through grants, public art projects, and mentorship programs—can make a huge difference.

Finally, I think it’s about celebrating art and creativity in all forms. When society values the stories, cultures, and perspectives that artists share, it inspires more people to pursue their creative passions. Whether it’s attending local art shows, commissioning work from independent artists, or even just engaging with art online, every bit of support helps build a stronger, more connected creative community.

At the end of the day, a thriving creative ecosystem benefits everyone. Art inspires, challenges, and brings people together—it’s worth investing in.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to connect with people on such a personal level through my work. Art—especially tattooing—is so much more than just creating something visually appealing. It’s about telling someone’s story, marking a meaningful moment, or helping them express who they are in a way that’s permanent and powerful.

Seeing a client’s reaction when they look at their finished tattoo for the first time is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it’s a design they’ve dreamed of for years or something they weren’t sure how to articulate, knowing I’ve created something that resonates deeply with them is what makes this work so rewarding.

It’s also about the journey. The process of turning an idea into a piece of art—collaborating, sketching, refining—is where so much trust and connection are built. Being part of that experience, and knowing that my work becomes a lasting part of someone’s life, is an honor I don’t take lightly.

On a personal level, being an artist allows me to grow constantly. It challenges me to keep learning, evolving, and pushing my creativity further. Whether it’s mastering new techniques, experimenting with different mediums, or finding inspiration in unexpected places, the creative process is endlessly rewarding.

Ultimately, it’s about impact. Knowing my work can inspire, empower, or bring joy to someone makes every moment worth it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @pauljacktattoo