The late 90s were a vibrant time for punk and grunge, yet the idea of a tattoo artist as a legitimate career was still emerging. For Tarik, living in Queens, NY during this era, it was a pivotal moment that would redirect his life’s path. Immersed in the punk scene, he and his friends frequently biked to CBGB, captivated by the musicians sporting mohawks and tattoos. This exposure sparked his artistic interest, initially leading him to sketch hardcore punk logos and nurture a growing desire for his own tattoo.
However, the dream of getting inked presented a geographical challenge. When Tarik’s life was about to shift to Spring Hill, FL, the Closest Tattoo Shop was a considerable distance away – at least 15 miles. This lack of accessible options was a significant hurdle. Adding to the complexity, his mother envisioned a different future for him, strongly encouraging him to pursue a medical career and even offering to finance his tuition under the condition he attended medical school.
“Pretty much all my family is in the medical profession,” Tarik recalls, highlighting the stark contrast between his aspirations and familial expectations. “I was the real black sheep. I knew in my heart that I didn’t want that path.”
Instead of following the expected route, Tarik navigated a dual life. He worked as a cable installer during the day to earn a living, while dedicating his nights to amateur tattooing, all while simultaneously studying Graphic Arts in college. “I made it almost three-and-a-half years,” he recounts, “then something really crazy happened.”
This period of juggling multiple commitments led him to a critical juncture. The cable company presented him with a full-time position, offering a stable salary and the conventional markers of adult success. Yet, on the very same day, a contrasting opportunity arose: a friend invited him to join a tattoo shop, an offer that promised a meager income of perhaps $100 every two weeks.
Trusting his instincts and passion, Tarik declined the corporate job and committed himself to the uncertain but compelling path of a tattoo artist. “At the time, I started seeing more tattoo shops opening up closer to where I lived,” he notes, reflecting on the gradual shift in tattoo culture. “Before then, you’d rarely see people walking around with good tattoos. I’d have to flip through magazines for inspiration, I never got to see the real thing.”
He embarked on several apprenticeships, diligently learning the fundamentals, refining his technique, and expanding his portfolio. His journey to becoming a professional tattoo artist was filled with obstacles, but his determination and passion ultimately paved the way for a successful career in a field that was becoming increasingly accessible and recognized.
