We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Pilar Zurita. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Pilar below.
Pilar, appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
I learned what I know through self-discipline, practice, and passion for the art of tattooing. I started in my hometown, where there were no tattoo studios to learn from, so I decided to teach myself. I was studying fine arts and I started tattooing on f*ke skin, and when I felt more comfortable I tattooed simple tattoos on my friends and family, while also learning from my favourite artists on Instagram and YouTube. It wasn’t an easy path but I never stopped learning and looking for ways to improve.
I opened my first tattoo studio in my hometown, and after a few months, I had the opportunity to move to the city and work in a studio with more tattoo artists; I could observe different styles and techniques and understand more about tattoo industry.
One year later , I opened my own studio in the city with one of my friends, and started traveling as a guest artist to visit more studios. Those experiences made me grow, because I learnt different techniques, and got a lot of great advices about tattooing. At the same time, I never stopped studying on my own, drawing, and creating constantly; I’ve always believed that learning in this profession is continuous.
Knowing what I know now, I think I would have learned faster if I had had the opportunity to work with other tattoo artists specialised in colour from the beginning. Sometimes, when you’re self-taught, the journey is longer because you have to discover everything on your own.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a tattoo artist who specializes in color realism and microrealism, I’m focused on creating unique and delicate pieces based in fine arts.
I use references from classic art, and transform them, framing them in original shapes (insects, flowers, brushstrokes..) and delicate compositions that add a special and personal touch. My designs are unique for each client.
I love starting a creative process with my clients.
My approach is collaborative; I listen to their ideas, feelings, and the story they want to tell with the tattoo. Then, I translate all of that into a design that fits their vision. I work with details, carefully considering every aspect of the process.
For me, design and technique are equally important. I want every client to feel proud and connected to the art they wear on their skin.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I always try to do my best with every piece I create.
I study every day to improve and grow as an artist..
Every tattoo I design is unique, and I never do the same design twice, making them very special for my clients.
Taking care of your customers is also very important; listening to their needs, ensuring their comfort, and, of course, being grateful to them.
Without our clients, none of this would be possible.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
Investing in digital art tools like Procreate and an iPad early on would have been a game-changer. I remember when I started, I was using a light table. The designing part was fun but it was too slow if I needed to make any change for the clients the day of the appointment. Now I’m able to create more detailed and realistic designs.
Doing seminars with my favourite tattoo artist would have been very helpful too. Learning from tattoo artist that have been tattooing for years and getting advice from them, would have made my learning process faster.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://caotida.com
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