Today we’d like to introduce you to Oscar Gomez.
Oscar, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started off as a natural born artist with no intention of tattooing. For years as a young adult, I’d been asked and encouraged to tattoo, however, the thought of my passion becoming a job did not entice me. It was not until I found myself (in 2008) working 4 odd jobs and going to college full time to support my wife and infant did I decide to take my chance at tattooing. I am a self taught tattoo artist and with an art and business background, decided to open up my own shop after experiencing working with other artists who’s professional stance did not align with mine. I’ve learned that it is possible to do what you love and it not feeling like a chore. I meet people from all walks of life and this career path taught me so much and continues to positively challenge my creativity and my artistic ability everyday. Everyday is a different vibe and adventure. I get to hang out with cool people and make a living off of art.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to success has definitely not been smooth! “Nothing great ever comes easy, and nothing easy is ever always great!”
There’s been many challenges along the way, from figuring out how to start.. to getting your foot in the door of the tattoo industry.. to self doubt and naysayers.. from investing in everything I had to venture into owning a small business and slowly building my reputation with the notion of guaranteeing quality and customer service… to start with just myself, and then at one point, managing 4 to 5 other artists and being a professional standard and role model to them. It was difficult with many challenges along the way, but those were all opportunities to learn from.
With nearly 20 years of tattooing experience, I understand the knowledge I gained could not have happened with all the challenges and life experiences that occurred. I’ve understood you’d have to be present throughout the journey and be disciplined and focused on keeping your eye on the goal. Plans change. I pivot and adapt when needed to achieve the goal.
The goal for me was to be able to work for myself and set my own hours so I can balance family life and work life… “Work to live, and not live to work.” I feel like I’ve accomplished my goal, and I’m ready for the next adventure.
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?
First and foremost. I’m an artist. I love and do it all. From drawing, sketching, and sculpting… to digital art, painting, tattooing and everything and anything else under each category.
I don’t necessarily have a specialty as it all comes natural to me. However, if I had to choose, it would be custom. The most challenging thing to do is create something a client envisions in their mind. A lot of times, they’re unsure how to articulate it as the thought (especially if they are not an artist) is typically confined to one style. But once I get enough information from them, I am able show how the different ways and styles that one idea they had can go multiple ways. From there, we customize it and add personal touches to make it unique and one of a kind to their life and experience.
I am known for being “the cover up guy” .. I’m usually the last resort for people who were told that something was impossible to cover up. I’ve made possible what others thought to be impossible
I’m most proud of the reputation that has come from the actions of doing what I love. I’ve put a lot of hard work and consistency in quality and customer service as I “treat people the way I want to be treated” and the fruits of my labor have blossomed. From this, I’ve connected with life long friends who have become family.
Customer service has set us apart from others. I understand this industry has plenty of artists, however, our professionalism and customer service has been what most (if not all) of my loyal clients say why they keep coming back. That we make them feel like family, cuz that’s the vibe. And for that, I’m truly grateful.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Put in the efforts. Go out and seek it. Get out of your comfort zone. MAKE IT HAPPEN for yourself. Don’t just talk about it. Be about it. Don’t expect to call tattoo shops asking if they need an apprentice and expect for them to say yes over the phone. Go in person. Be prepared with a portfolio. Take initiative. And leave your Ego out the door.
Work on your art, everyday. It doesn’t matter if your a new artist or have been one for decades. There’s always something new to learn and ways to improve.
All of the above has worked well for me and got me to where I am now.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies depending on details within the design, placement and if you want black and gray or color
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ogtattoos.com
- Instagram: ogtattoos
- Facebook: OG Tattoos
