Today we’d like to introduce you to Ash Butters.
Hi Ash, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
After I graduated with my master’s degree from Full Sail, I was not happy with the corporate world. Wanting to oversee my own creative pursuits, I sought work elsewhere and started to collect my own tattoos during this time. I saw how much influence a tattoo can have over someone, how it can help cherish memories of those who have passed and how it can help someone increase their confidence. I wanted my art to do that for someone else. Eventually after working at a few shops, I decided to open my own private tattoo studio to provide a comfortable space for my clients.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In truth, I had it lucky compared to other female tattoo artists. Toxicity and misogyny can run rampant in the tattoo industry, and I have heard several horror stories. Thankfully in my time I have not come across this type of treatment. However there had been some small bumps along the way. I had three mentors during my apprenticeship, uncomfortable moments with inappropriate clients and general bumps that most people in the service industry deal with.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
One of my joys as a tattoo artist is connecting with my clients. I am not from Florida. I grew up overseas in Dubai, U.A.E. From there, I lived in London before transferring and graduating with a B.F.A from Parsons in New York City. I have always enjoyed connecting with people from all around and going through different journeys of life. As tattoos are becoming more acceptable today, all diverse types of people come into my studio. It is fascinating exchanging stories or seeing why they choose their tattoos. Sometimes it is to commemorate an exciting moment in their life or a loved one or even as simple as appreciating the art.
I also find the biggest compliment I can ever receive on my art is someone wanting to get it on them forever. Personally, I enjoy dabbling in different styles. However, I am best known for my pepper shading/stipple work, watercolor, and illustrative styles. In fact, one of the things I’m most proud of is my journey as a tattoo artist. I only graduated from my apprenticeship in 2020, and I have managed to keep a private tattoo studio in business for three years now. I have a strong clientele, and I have enjoyed seeing the progress of my art. I look forward to seeing how my art will look in a few years time as I grow as an artist.
How do you define success?
As cheesy as it sounds, I define success through fulfillment. Growing up in Dubai, I saw that no matter where you are in life there will always be money issues. So, my pursuit was never to be the wealthest, thus I became an artist. I see success as a journey in life, having the freedom to pursue my own creative projects and trying to appreciate each day.
Pricing:
- $175 Hourly
- $75 Min
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ashbutters.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tattoos_bybutters/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tattoosbybutters/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tattoos_bybutters
Image Credits
Tattoos done by Ash Butters
