We were lucky to catch up with Saga Wilkko recently and have shared our conversation below.

Saga , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear the story behind how you got your first job in field that you currently practice in.

I had been racking my brain trying to think of what I could do career wise as art is really the only thing I’ve ever been passionate about. Creative careers are not easy to come by. I don’t exactly come from a background or environment where tattoos were mainstream or acceptable, so it had never really been something I considered until I actually started getting tattoos and realized the full potential of the artistry in it. To say I was instantly hooked would be an understatement!
I started working on my portfolio right away and looking into the local shops, trying to figure out my next step. I’m a perfectionist, so the first step was difficult and I dealt with a lot of self doubt- was my art really something people would want on their bodies forever?
When I felt I had a decent portfolio together, I gathered some additional art pieces and walked into the first shop on my list. I was told to come back for a formal interview on the spot, something I definitely wasn’t expecting but I was over the moon. I had no idea what a typical apprenticeship would look like, and I was just happy to have a chance.
It was a difficult journey, and still is, but I appreciate all the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I take a lot of pride in my craft, and try every day to make it show in my work. I’ve worked in a few different shop environments throughout my career, but never really felt I found a place that truly represented my values- this is what ultimately lead me to opening my own shop, Valkyrie Tattoo Gallery. I am happy to say the industry continues to grow and evolve, and I think there are plenty of shops around now that I’d be happy to work in. I think it’s important to find a balance within respecting the history of tattooing while also acknowledging some of the more problematic aspects of the industry and looking for room to improve. We can always do better- but only if we’re willing to learn and listen.
Ultimately, I want to provide a space where everyone can feel welcomed and comfortable, clients as well as fellow artists. Getting a tattoo can already be such a vulnerable, stressful experience that I want to do everything I can to mitigate that and instead bring an air of comfort and trust.
I specialize in illustrative tattooing with fantasy, botanical and all around nature themes, and have always also had a focus in helping people however I can. I provide scar cover up tattoos on a sliding scale and discounted rates for this reason. It’s one of the things I’m most proud to be able to do and always look to do more.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

Absolutely, no question about it. I feel incredibly lucky to be able to do what I do.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

Resilience, and willingness to always continue learning. There are constant improvements to the equipment we use, the techniques- you should never think you’ve learned everything there is to learn in this industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.valkyriedallas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saga_maria_art/?hl=en

Image Credits
Photo of me tattooing- Aapo Laakso Tattoo pictures by me