Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Davis.
Natalie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I always wanted to be an artist for a living, and more specifically a tattoo artist as I grew into my teenage years. I was always told you couldn’t survive on an artist’s income alone- that it wasn’t a viable occupation, it was a hobby. My dad was a successful businessman that left home at age 17 with nothing, and I always wanted to make him proud.
After much debate and *almost* attending veterinary school, I decided I had to pursue art. I knew if I never tried, I’d always regret it. Four years later, I graduated from CCAD with a BFA in Fine Arts and a focus in printmaking and jewelry making. In the months after college, I realized I was dually unprepared and terrified for what came next in life.
I applied for positions in printmaking, bench jewelry, and visual merchandising. During this time I also started hanging out at a tattoo shop my friend worked at. I was still working in retail and hating my life when I received a callback for a second interview at Jared (yup, the Galleria of Jewelry), as well as an offer for a tattoo apprenticeship. I had to put all my eggs in one basket, quick. The choice to me was obvious: tattooing.
Fast forward! I’ve been tattooing for almost six years now, as my sole income and occupation, something I never thought I could do. Additionally, I’m working on opening private studio with my business partner Nicole Elisa. This is a huge accomplishment for the both of us, and I’m so excited to see this goal come to fruition!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Tattooing has been the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but it has also been the most rewarding part of my life. My apprenticeship was not traditional, meaning my mentor did not properly teach me about the history, culture, or practice of tattooing. His prerogative was to have a tattoo machine in my hands as soon as possible, so I could make money for the business. I essentially had to walk before I could run because my other option was being fired. It was like faking your resume and showing up for the job anyway, but this job consisted of putting permanent images in peoples’ skin that they might hate you for later. I’m a bit of a perfectionist and a huge self-critic. I had panic attacks or left the shop in tears on a daily basis. After a lot of practice, mostly on eager friends (I’m so sorry, guys) I began to get the hang of it. As difficult as it was, I’m grateful I had the opportunity to enter this industry and I wouldn’t change it!
Aside from the huge learning curve, I’ve been screamed at, threatened, talked down to, and diminished to the point of almost giving up. In this industry, there is no HR department & often no policies to prevent or protect against unfair or unlawful treatment. Myself and many others have experienced and/or witnessed sexism, sexual harassment, assault, racism, intimidation, gaslighting, and manipulation. As a result, it is exponentially harder for Black, POC, queer, and transgender artists to find opportunities and safe work environments in this career field.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a tattoo artist! I specialize in styles referred to as “blackwork” and “dotwork,” meaning I use only black ink and a stippling technique to shade my pieces. I’m an avid hiker and animal lover, so my work mostly consists of and is inspired by nature. I love to use animals, flowers, plants, fungi, and landscapes as my subject matter. For most of my career, I’ve worked on small or medium-sized tattoos, but lately I’ve been expanding my work to large-scale projects such as full-back pieces and arm/leg sleeves. I’m most excited about these projects and how I can evolve my work and skill level through them.
My favorite part of this job is my client’s reaction and how the tattoos make them feel and see themselves differently. For many of us, tattooing is a form of therapy and a method of adornment. Through it, we are able to personalize and decorate our own vessels and become more at home within them. I love being able to be a conduit for this. Knowing a client loves their tattoo and how it changes their perception of self in a positive way is the greatest reward of all.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
So many people!
First, my parents. My mom always pushed me to pursue art and gave me her full support. She helped put me through college and I can’t thank her enough for that. My dad has been my biggest motivator and role model. I wouldn’t be where I am at today without them.
My clients are my biggest cheerleaders of all. They’ve shown me immense kindness, support, respect, patience, strength and dedication. I have so much gratitude for each and every one of you!
My business partner Nicole has been a bright light in this journey and an amazing support to have by my side. We make a kick-ass team.
Last but not least, my partner and my best friend. They’ve been my confidants and my shoulders to cry on when the shit gets tough and the imposter syndrome pays a visit.
Contact Info:
- Website: ratcult.com
- Instagram: ratcult
