Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tony Montana . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Tony thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?

Looking back, I sometimes wonder what it would have been like if I had started my tattoo career earlier, but honestly, I’m glad things unfolded the way they did. I began tattooing at a time when I had already experienced a few other career paths and life challenges, which gave me a unique perspective and a sense of maturity that I might not have had if I started younger.

When I first got into tattooing, I was in a place where I was seeking more than just a job—I was looking for a way to express myself and connect with others on a deeper level. If I had started sooner, I think I might have missed out on some of the personal growth and life experiences that now influence my art and approach to tattooing.

Starting later might have brought even more life experience to the table, but I also feel that there’s a right time for everything. The experiences I’ve had up until now have shaped me, and I wouldn’t change a thing. I believe I started at the perfect time for me, and it’s been a journey that’s taught me so much, both as an artist and as a person.

Would things have been different if I started sooner or later? Definitely. But I think each path has its own set of lessons and opportunities. I’m just grateful for where I am now and excited about what’s ahead.

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

For those who might be hearing about me for the first time, my name is Tony Montana, and I’m a tattoo artist based in Colorado Springs, though my work takes me across the United States to conventions and guest spots at various shops. Art has always been a central part of my life, but it wasn’t until I found tattooing that I truly felt I’d found my calling. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about creating art that people choose to carry with them permanently—each piece tells a story, captures a moment, or represents something deeply personal to the wearer.

I got into tattooing after exploring other creative avenues, but nothing resonated with me the way this craft does. It’s not just about the art itself; it’s about the connections I make with my clients and the shared experience of bringing their ideas to life on skin. My focus is on creating custom tattoos that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful.

What sets me apart is my commitment to making my art accessible to people all over the country. I regularly travel to tattoo conventions and do guest spots at various shops, so whether you’re in Colorado Springs or on the opposite coast, there’s a good chance we can connect. This mobility allows me to reach a diverse range of clients and bring unique, custom pieces to people who might not otherwise have the opportunity.

I’m proud of the work I do and the trust my clients place in me. Every tattoo is a collaboration, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see someone walk away with a piece of art they love, knowing it’s something they’ll carry with them for the rest of their life. I want potential clients to know that I’m always open to new projects, and I’m passionate about making high-quality, custom tattoos accessible to people all over the United States. If you’re interested in getting a tattoo or just want to discuss ideas, I’m here to help bring your vision to life, no matter where you are.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my view, supporting tattoo artists and fostering a thriving creative ecosystem in the tattoo industry requires several key actions from society:

1. Promote Awareness and Education: Educate the public about the artistry and skill involved in tattooing. This can help elevate the perception of tattoo artists and recognize their craft as a legitimate and valuable form of artistic expression.
2. Provide Access to Resources: Ensure that tattoo artists have access to high-quality supplies, studio space, and professional development opportunities. Access to these resources can enhance an artist’s skills and the overall quality of their work.
3. Foster Community and Collaboration: Encourage networking and collaboration within the tattoo community. Events like conventions, tattoo shows, and workshops provide valuable opportunities for artists to connect, share techniques, and inspire one another.
4. Support Inclusivity and Diverse Voices: Recognize and celebrate the diverse range of styles and perspectives in tattooing. Supporting a wide array of tattoo artists and their unique approaches can enrich the tattoo culture and offer clients more varied and personalized options.
5. Advocate for Legal Protections: Support policies that protect tattoo artists’ intellectual property and ensure fair practices within the industry. Legal protections help safeguard artists’ designs and livelihoods.
6. Encourage Ethical Practices: Promote ethical standards within the tattoo industry, including respect for copyright, transparency in practices, and maintaining a clean and professional environment. This helps build trust between artists and clients and upholds the integrity of the craft.

By taking these steps, society can contribute to a more supportive and thriving environment for tattoo artists, allowing them to continue creating and sharing their art with the world.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Looking back on my creative journey, one resource I wish I had known about earlier is the value of connecting directly with artists I admire. I now realize how beneficial it would have been to reach out to my favorite tattoo artists sooner—whether to chat with them, get tattooed by them, or simply support their work.

Engaging with experienced artists offers more than just a chance to receive a great tattoo; it provides invaluable insights into their creative process, their approach to their craft, and their experiences within the industry. These interactions can unlock a wealth of knowledge and guidance that goes beyond what you might find in books or online resources.

Building relationships with mentors and industry leaders can accelerate your growth as an artist, offering you unique perspectives and advice that can significantly impact your development. I now appreciate the importance of seeking out these connections early on to gain inspiration and practical wisdom from those who have already walked the path.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Tattoosbytm.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/tattoosbytonymontana
• Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/tony-montana-664301277

Image Credits

“All tattoos and photographs were done by Tony Montana.”