Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Nolasco.
Justin, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in Northern California, playing soccer, skateboarding and making art. Skateboarding exposed me to new, unique and different styles of art and artists, and ultimately led me to finding tattoos and tattoo inspired art. I also took a lot of different art class from middle school and high school, up into college, from photography and printmaking to 3D design and graphic design, and I’m very much a self described ‘art nerd’. It took me a long time and various career paths to finally land an apprenticeship in 2017, at the age of 30, and learn the art of tattooing. From there it was a lot of hard work and dedication, and thousands of hours of blood, sweat, and tears, and amazing clients and friends, to get to where I am today. It still seems surreal that I get to travel across the country and create art.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been anything but smooth. Tattooing is a craft, a lifestyle if you will, not just a ‘job’. And there are a lot of hours spent working outside the shop. I spent years just trying to get an apprenticeship; getting tattooed, working front desk at shops, going to tattoo conventions and networking and having tattoo artists look at my portfolio, and just drawing and creating art nonstop. It’s cost me friendships/relationships and hobbies, and has limited my social life in ways, not to mention it takes a toll on your physical and mental health. But, I’d do it all over again without hesitation.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an award winning tattoo artist, based out of Dear You Tattoo in Kansas City. I made a name for myself doing watercolor style tattoos, but since have branched out to incorporate a little bit of everything style wise, and I’m always experimenting with different styles. The best way to describe my artwork nowadays would be like if street art meets fine art. I feel like that not only sets me apart from other tattooers, many of whom only do a specific style, but is also something I’m proud of. Being well versed in many styles allows me to create unique designs for each and every one of my clients. I also pride myself in creating a welcoming, safe and professional space for my clients.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Being authentic and true to myself has best the lesson I’ve learned along my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iamjuco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjuco
