Jourdan Jean from Nashville, Tennessee
Where
did you grow up?
I was
born in Ocean Springs, MS, but was raised in Albuquerque, NM.
How was
it growing up there, would you say that it influenced you?
God… I
hated that place. I think the only way it influenced me was to learn to
survive on my own, no matter what it took, so I wouldn’t have to end up there!
When
did you start getting tattoos?
I think
I was 19? Best decision EVER.
How
would you describe your style?
Style?
I’m really not sure, honestly. I like simplicity, and I think that’s why I have
yet to decide on how to integrate more tattoos onto my left arm. I want it to
be perfect, and not to seem as if I finished it just so I could be more heavily
tattooed.
Do you
consider tattoos as a serious art form?
Very
much so, I feel that applying and receiving artwork onto a person’s flesh is
one of the most intimate practices around.
How do
you see the tattoo culture right now?
I love
seeing so many individuals starting to embrace the lifestyle, however, I’m
still annoyed at the fact that it limits career opportunities to those that
don’t feel that they should have to hide their art.
What
has been your inspiration for getting them?
Every
piece has a story that has impacted my evolution, so it’s all about life.
What’s
your favorite piece?
I’m
pretty stoked about my pink tri-force! It will be finished soon!
Do you
catch people starring at you because of your ink?
Quite
often. I find it odd though, since I’m far from heavily tattooed. I’m
flattered so long as they don’t touch me, and this happens much too often for
anyone’s own good.
What’s
your most significant tattoo and why?
I have
the French script for the number four, “Quatre” on my left forearm, done by
Will Bledsoe, and it’s a tribute to my best friend who died a few years
ago. The marionette by Ben Dixon is relevant to my overbearing parents,
the 12:13 on my wrist about a sister I’ve never met, and my sweet cupcake done
by Jason St.Clair, dedicated to my love of the kitchen.
What’s
your next tattoo?
I have
so many I want, so I guess it just depends on how much the boyfriend feels like
shelling out for my birthday ;)
What
advice would you give to someone wanting to get their first tattoo?
Think
it through! Don’t just choose a picture from the books in the lobby, or
imitate someone else’s artwork. And tip your artist extra if you happen to
be a screamer.
I’ve
been lucky in having amazing people come into my life lately. Fellow models,
photographers, artists; it’s great. I’m also just keeping my fingers
crossed that the photography company that my boyfriend and I own,
TerminalImageDesign.com, takes off, so I can stop working 60 hour weeks!
What is
one thing that life has taught you?
To be
quiet. To keep things simple. And to eat as many damned gummy bears
as you please.
Will
you be getting anymore?
Tattoos
or gummy bears? I’m hoping yes on both accounts.
Do you
have a favorite quote?
“Methink'st
thou art a general offence, and every man should beat thee.”