Conversations with Dustin Nowlin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dustin Nowlin.

Hi Dustin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
What if the only way you knew how to survive chaos as a kid was to draw your way out of it?
That’s how my journey as an artist really began. As the oldest of four siblings, I spent hours alone sketching on whatever I could find. Drawing became my way to cope with a turbulent world and make real connections with the people around me. It quickly turned into my not-so-secret talent — something that could light up faces and build friendships.
That devotion to creating for others just kept growing. It led me deeper into painting, and at 15 I was given a rare opportunity: a reputable apprenticeship that opened the door to tattooing full-time. Tattooing felt like the perfect way to keep developing as an artist every single day. Along the way, I couldn’t shake my love of storytelling through film. To me, directing a film is just another form of painting — only this time with motion, light, and sound.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
“Struggles” are no more than learning experiences. Pathways to develop growth. That being said, learning is something I embrace with a passion. I love a challenge and I refuse to resign to the notion that I cannot learn something new.
Adversity makes the artist. It takes time, practice, and real dedication to get something to a quality level you’re proud of. In tattooing and painting, the biggest tests are around craftsmanship and artistic expression. In filmmaking, it’s often about finding the right resources to do the story justice. But I’ve learned that if you shift your perspective, every one of those hurdles can give way to real creativity. That’s what keeps it exciting — turning obstacles into fuel for better work.

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?
These days I split my energy between two deep passions: creating large-scale fine art and Japanese-inspired tattooing, while building films through my production company, Centerpiece Pictures.
As a painter and tattoo artist, I specialize in bold, narrative-driven work — especially large custom Japanese pieces and detailed traditional tattoos. I own Elite Laurel, where we approach every project as a serious collaboration and a meaningful commitment. Each piece is designed to last a lifetime, both visually and emotionally.
On the film side, we’ve produced thrillers and are now developing several ambitious feature films. I’m drawn to stories that feel epic in scope — much like tackling a massive back piece or a large canvas. Both demand the same discipline: starting with a clear vision and commitment to the journey of bringing it to life.
What sets me apart is that I approach all visual art the same way: with patience, respect for the craft, and a deep belief that the process is sacred. I’m most proud when someone walks away from my studio transformed, or when a story we’ve poured everything into finally comes to life on a screen. I’m chasing that same feeling— turning big, intimidating ideas into something meaningful.

Contact Info:

• Website: Elitelaurel.com and Centerpiecepictures.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_noblewarrior/ and https://www.instagram.com/centerpiecepictures_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elite.laurel and https://www.facebook.com/CenterpiecePictures
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6W5paV8O5E0VQSrAISIYqw