Tattoo Artist

A firm grip, a steady hand and patience are the skills required to make it big for a tattoo artist.

 The "Tattoo boom" seemed to have caught up years ago; however, today, this rage is on fire! From the creative guys to corporate, many sport a tattoo which is becoming a popular mode of expression. "Those who feared getting a tattoo done would opt for tiny ones, but it's amazing to see how few years down the line, they are covered with tattoos. The industry is growing in leaps and bounds."
Thus, a career as a tattoo designer is here to stay, with experts quoting that the industry is flourishing even during recession. So if you have the passion to craft these stories, then there is more to designing a tattoo than what meets the eye. Following are a few quick pointers on how to get there:
Skills or attributes an individual must possess to be a tattoo designer:

• Must be a good artist
• Must be creative, with an eye for aesthetics
• Must have knowledge about the skin, blood and various related diseases
• Must have passion
• Must have patience
• Must have a steady hand

Eligibility: Any individual with the above mentioned skills can be a good tattoo artist depending on an individual's ability to learn. No specific degree is required to be eligible to learn, however, a background in fine arts can be a bonus. An artistically inclined individual with a firm grip can begin to learn even as early as in their teens!
Types of Courses available: There is no formal training available in India to be a tattoo designer, however, a large number of reputed tattoo artists conduct various courses for a span of a few months or an apprenticeship with a tattoo studio is a good bet as well. These courses can be heavy on your pocket running into over a lakh or so, owing to the expensive imported equipment used to design a tattoo. Karl quips, "You are only as good an artist as your equipment." Like across most industries, specialization helps you carve a niche for yourself. "You can specialize in floral, tribal, portraits and so on, depending on your style," adds Bobo.
Job Prospects and remuneration: Depending on your skill, in a span of three to six months, you can begin working with clients. However, it will take you a couple of years to build your fort. Karl adds, "Keep sketching and observing how your teacher works, and, with dedication you will get there." Additionally, you can be a full time tattoo artist, or a part timer, depending on your preference.
The moolah is exciting even for a beginner working under an artist who would get paid basis on a commission or percentage per tattoo, which could range from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 40,000. The good part about the job is that depending on your zest, you can earn as much. You do have the liberty to choose days when you do not want to work.
Future prospects: As of today, the future is here to get bigger and better, with most tattoo artists disagreeing to the fact that this may be 'just one of the trends' followed by the fashion conscious. With globalization affecting Brand India, your passion for tattooing can take you places!
For all those who are keen on making it, keep sketching and just have fun..! "It's important to learn and work with a reputed artist, who maintains high levels of hygiene while tattooing considering the flow of blood, uses state of the art equipment and runs a clean business, if you want to be a good artist."