Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaiden Franklin.
Hi Jaiden; we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Art has been a passion of mine since I was a little girl, from pastels to watercolor, charcoal, and acrylic. I have loved all the versatility of expression in any medium. As I became an adult, the idea of where I would move forward in my artistic career dawned on me. There weren’t/aren’t many options as far as graphic design, art curation, etc. All while fabulous jobs didn’t resonate with what I wanted to express as an artist. Being a tattoo artist was brought to my attention after I graduated high school. I didn’t want to waste away at college trying to figure it out, so I got an out-of-town apprenticeship and learned what I know now. I would say it’s a little different from everyone else but still learning new things daily. I’ve been tattooing now for two years going on three, and I’ve loved every minute; Although up and down, it’s given me a sense of passion and thrill I wouldn’t have expected in any other job.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been smooth, as much as I wish I could say it was; this industry is very cutthroat, especially as a female, and being so young, I’ve seen all sides. Not one group is the same. You’ve got to speak up for yourself and know when you’re being taken advantage of. Some nasty people want your money and you to get out of the door and never see you again. I want to be a part of the bigger picture. Where I’m now in my career, I want to push my art forward and not focus on any drama that may accompany it. I’ve learned where to draw the line, and I’m finding myself every day as a person and as a tattooer. Every person I come into contact with, good or bad, is just a stepping stone for me to get better and do better.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a versatile tattoo artist! I don’t specialize in just one thing but a multitude of them. While I’m still learning, I’m evolving into my true style. I love to do black and grey, goth, and witchy style designs. I’m most proud of my dedication. Not many people my age (21) are determined to jumpstart and manage their businesses. Since 19, I’ve been fully forward with my art and career, to be known for doing beautiful work on anybody who may walk through the door. I’ve been very laid back and observant of how my life is unfolding, and I can say. Like others, I’m sure I’ve been at the point of wondering if this career path is it for me. We are always our own worst critics, you know? Standing apart for me means breaking the norm, and I wouldn’t say I’m breaking anything but simply fitting myself in where it’ll take me, going with the flow, like others may not be. Nonetheless, I’m willing to do what it takes.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting?
Pay attention. My main fault, in the beginning, was being blinded by how great being a tattoo artist could be. I didn’t stop and look at how people could take advantage of that. If you push all that out and put your primary focus into your work and being a better artist, there isn’t anything that could or can stop you besides yourself. Who knows? They all say artists are mad, and that might be true. But I think being mad is the part that keeps me pushing to do more, and even though I may dislike my art one day, I can come back and be amazed by it the next. Just like us humans, art is constantly evolving.
Pricing:
- Tattoo: pricing varies
- Consultations: free of charge
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Instagram.com/jadesbodyart
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Jade-Shaylee/100071028981337/
Image Credits
Photo credit for feature photo ONLY is: Alley Pettus
