Lauren Johnson from New Zealand
Where did you grow up?
Masterton, New Zealand.
When did you start getting tattoos?
My mum got me into tattoos; she
got me my 1st tattoo for my 13th birthday! And I’ve been
addicted ever since.
How would you describe your style?
My style generally represents my
life, they all have a story. I love colored tattoos.
Do you consider tattoos as a serious art form?
Yea totally, it’s a way of
people expressing themselves.
How do you see the tattoo culture right now?
The culture right now is
amazing, people are getting artwork! It’s totally inspiring. I also love the
fact that all types are into ink now.
What has been your inspiration for getting them?
Life really, things that happen
every day inspire me to get ink.
What’s your favorite piece?
My half sleeve, but I’m getting
a new piece soon so that’ll be exciting.
Do you catch people starring at you because of your ink?
All the time, sometimes it’s
good stares and sometimes it’s judgment stares.
In your opinion, do your tattoos change your mood often?
Um not really. Not for me
anyway.
What’s your most significant tattoo and why?
My half sleeve, it’s actually a
cover up. I used to have a horrible black dragon arm band and it’s was just
really dark, not me. I went through a bad patch and wanted to brighten it up. I
started with a lotus flower to represent growth.
What’s your next tattoo?
I’m getting a Dia de los muertos
(day of the dead) lady down my ribcage.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to get their
first tattoo?
Take your time finding something
you like, don’t rush into anything.
What is one thing that life has taught you?
Give everything, expect nothing.
If you do that you will never be let down.
Will you be getting anymore?
I’m hooked for life; I will
always be getting more.
Do you have a favorite quote?
Today is a gift, that’s why they
call it the present.