Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Varuska.
Hi Mary, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always been into art – from coloring books to museums, tattoos to graphic design. I was lucky enough to be around creative people from a young age into adulthood. My ex-partner actually gave me the opportunity to try a new medium, tattooing, and I absolutely fell in love. They were such an integral part of getting my not just the ability to learn but the coaching and support needed to get better every day.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have to say as far as smooth goes, I have an interesting take. I’ve been so fortunate to have wonderful people in my life who have allowed me to move at my own pace when trying to discover just what I wanted to do with my life. Believe me, I tried to self-sabotage constantly and definitely took the long road, but we live and learn.
I have always been a huge proponent of taking care of one’s mental health, but I neglected my own to a disastrous extent. I not only lengthened the amount of time it took to reach my goals but would frequently cause larger problems and cause collateral damage to my family and myself.
It’s been a long road, one I’m still walking. I think one of the things that set out studio, Rogues Gallery Tattoo, apart is that every single one of us deals with some form of mental health struggle. Our studio is very close, and everyone is always willing to listen, advise, and encourage each other through the rough times as well as the good. That goes for not just our colleagues but our clients as well.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an artist, specifically known for my tattoos these days. I work at Rogues Gallery Tattoo in Merritt Island and I absolutely love every second of it. My clients tend to come to me for fine line, floral, abstract, and blackwork, but I love all styles. I’ve been so fortunate to be able to have been noticed through social media and gained clients from different states, some who have traveled all the way here to get tattooed by me. That in itself has been a humbling experience.
I’m extremely proud of how far I’ve come, especially with my mentor Galen Mousecop encouraging me and pushing me to be the artist they knew I could be. I love trying new styles and pieces that clients print to me.
I think what really sets myself apart from others is my customer service. From the genesis of a tattoo idea to the application, I am as thorough as possible. I’ll take the time to listen to my client, advise on what would be the best way to make their idea a tattooable design, restencil or move a tattoo as many times as I need to ensure the placement is perfect, and follow up to make sure they love their piece!
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Since I was a young adult, Orlando has always been a hub for artists and creatives. I have gone to shows, museums, art galleries, and restaurants that have been pivotal inspirations in guiding my career and encouraging my imagination and creativity.
I got to be honest; parking in Orlando may be my least favorite thing. Whether it’s downtown, the malls, or a cafe, I swear, I can never find a spot!
Pricing:
- $650 full day
- $400 half day
- $115 Minimum
Contact Info:
- Website: www.roguesgallerytattoo.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/mabelstjamestattoos
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/roguesgallerytattoo
Image Credits
Galen Mousecop
Pats Reed
Evangeline McHatton
