We recently had the chance to connect with Ben Riffe and have shared our conversation below.
Ben, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Coffee and drawing. Answer emails. Taking my 2 English bulldogs for a walk. Make breakfast.
I like to start my day nice and easy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a resident artist at RedTree Tattoo and Art Gallery. I’ve been a tattoo artist for 18years. I specialize in American and Neo traditional tattoos.
RedTree Tattoo is the largest private studio in Ohio.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was a platinum level service advisor for Honda of America. I was an advisor for 7yrs. Went and got a tattoo in the summer of 2006 and the rest is history
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
When I first started my tattoo apprenticeship. It was definitely a scary time. Learning a new trade and gaining people’s trust. For them to allow you to tattoo them with very little experience.
You definitely question yourself.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. It’s all tattoos and bulldogs. Hahah
I live a simple quiet life.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
That all this art came easily. This career was/is a long road. I’ve made a lot of sacrifices,to get to where I am.
Contact Info:
- Website: RedTree tattoo.com
- Instagram: @benriffetattoos
- Facebook: Ben Riffe
