

Emily Zhan
What made you want to become a Tattoo Artist?
My overall passion around art inspired me to become a Tattoo Artist.
Where or who do you turn to for inspiration?
Lots of my favorite singers and artists have tattoos which show their attitudes towards life. This is a huge inspiration for me to explore more beauty in daily life through tattoos.
Tell us about your experience training as a Tattoo Artist? Who made the largest impact on your artistic progress?
It is not easy to be a tattoo artist. Hardworking and being patient are very important during this process. I have to believe that I could do it and keep practice every single day to make myself qualified enough to tattoo on my clients. All of my coworkers impact me a lot. Compared to those famous artists from the internet, my coworkers showed me in person about how to become a professional artist and how to keep moving during hard times.
How many Tattoo’s do you have & which is your favourite?
I have two tattoos on me so far. One is an eye on my calf, and the other is seven moon states in my arm. I love both of them. There is so much information on the news coming up every day, making us feel confused. The eye reminds me of focusing on what I really want in life. The different moons states stand for different situations in daily life. We should know everything is going to happen, no matter if it’s good or bad. We can’t change what life gives us, what we can do is handle it properly and keep positive.
What do you find yourself doing after a long day at the studio?
I am always educating myself as a professional Tattoo Artist. Tattoo is part of my life so a long day’s work is the normal lifestyle I chose. After understanding this, I could find comfort in myself and enjoy a bath or watch tv.
Do you have any mentors you look up to?
Yes. In the tattoo technique area, I look up to master shark, lousa and other professional coworkers. They show me everything in person to help me understand how to tattoo. However, tattoos are more than technique. We should have a healthy mind to keep moving on, so I find lots of mentors through reading.
How do you stay on top of new trends?
Keep watching. But nobody could stay on the top. When you catch it, the top trends change.
Do you have a favourite Tattoo Piece you worked on? If so, why does it stand out to you?
A watercolor style rose on the calf. This tattoo is more about imagination and inspiration.
What advice would you give to an artist just starting out?
Believe in yourself.