Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Alfaro.
Hi Natalie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It started about 6 years ago when I went to UCF for design. My partner’s childhood friend is a tattoo artist, and he saw my school projects and asked me to be his apprentice. I was dedicated to finishing my degree and thought being a tattoo artist was out of reach. I got my bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design at UCF in 2020. I got hired as an in-house designer, my dream job then. After about 2.5 years, I realized that I was in a position where I couldn’t grow as an artist in the company I was at and didn’t feel fulfilled. I’ve always wanted to do a creative job, but I was still working 9-5 in a building at a desk, and it just didn’t sit right with me. I went back to my partner’s friend and asked him for the apprenticeship again, and although he already had an apprentice during that time, he still took me in and allowed me the opportunity.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not! From February to July, I was still working at my graphic design job Monday through Thursday (30 hours), and on Friday/Saturday, I would go to the shop for my apprenticeship. I worked 6 days a week for 6 months, but since the apprenticeship was unpaid, I did my best to try and save up as much money as possible to get me by when I quit my designer job. It was a struggle to fully commit to tattooing and taking the leap to leave my steady income job since I didn’t know when I would be able to tattoo people and make money. But once I did, I put all my effort and time into tattooing and made much more progress. I knew I made the right decision.
Thanks for sharing that. Can you tell us more about your work next?
I’m a tattoo apprentice at The Ink Lab in Altamonte Springs. I want to specialize in fine-line tattoos, blackwork and ornamental. I’m still trying to make my mark as an artist, but I’d like to be known for the thick blackwork style that adorns your body’s natural curves. I want to be known for creating a sort of artistic armor regardless of gender, making you feel more confident and beautiful in your body.
I’m most proud of my progress during my apprenticeship and the amount of effort and time I’ve put into it. I’ve worked (and continue to work) so hard, and it’s so rewarding seeing people be interested in my designs and want to get them tattooed on their bodies permanently! My design style sets me apart, and I take the time to make sure the design sits right on you and is exactly what you want. As a tattoo apprentice or artist, it can take much work to stand out from this oversaturated industry. But once you find your style and make it unique, people will recognize it!
Who else deserves credit for your story?
My mentor and friend, Juan Carmona, has played a massive role in my apprenticeship. He is the co-owner of The Ink Lab alongside Wender Pires, who also deserves so much credit for allowing me the opportunity. I’d also like to give credit to all the other artists at The Ink Lab; any time I ever had a question or need help, they were all so supportive and helpful, and I have learned a lot from them, too.
I also want to give credit to every person who let me tattoo them for free at the beginning of my journey. They trusted me to tattoo them while I was still learning, which helped me grow as an artist. My partner Brandon is the golden client for being the first person ever to tattoo and allowing me to do whatever designs I want on him. Lastly, my friends and family who supported me have been a massive help. Having such a great support system during a significant change in your career/life is crucial. It made the process so much easier, and I am forever grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/naat.taats?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=1237d809-2c6f-4d0c-82c1-9ad77c56c56b
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naat.taats?igsh=cnB6MGVkYnJsMnUx
Image Credits
Brianna Quiceno
