Declan
Spreadbury from the United Kingdom
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small city called, Salisbury in southern
England.
How was it growing up there, would you say that it
influenced you?
Growing up in Salisbury is possibly one of the best places to
grow up, I love it here. Where I live you have the city center on one side and
on the other there’s miles and miles of open fields where you can find Old
Castles and countryside!
When did you start getting tattoos?
I got my first tattoo at the age of 19. It took me a long
time to decide on a piece due to the fact that I did not want to rush into it,
because I'd seen so many people regretting their choices.
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as a little bit of everything. I
like to mix it up now and then.
Do you consider tattoos as a serious art form?
Yes definitely!
How do you see the tattoo culture right now?
Right now tattoos are extremely main stream. There are a lot
of poor pieces and a lot of beautiful pieces out there; you've just got to look
in the right places!
What has been your inspiration for getting them?
Mainly, my mother and father, they are both covered in them.
What’s your favorite piece?
My chest piece, it has a lot of meaning and a lot of pain
went into it.
Do you catch people starring at you because of your ink?
Yeah all the time, sometimes I forget that I have tattoos and
think they're just looking at my arm or chest haha!
In your opinion, do your tattoos change your mood often?
Yes definitely. Sometimes when I'm feeling down I look at my
tattoos and they remind me of that they mean. This makes me stronger.
What’s your most significant tattoo and why?
The meanings behind each of my tattoos are:
Chest: Golden Eagles are by far my favorite creature in the
world, because they are so free! They can do what they like! They are
incredible!
Arm: My left arm is for my mother, so I decided to get things
that she loves for example: A silverback Gorilla, a Dolphin and Roses (There's
more to come on this arm.) I chose to get 3 Roses because when I was younger
every night before my mother went to sleep she kissed my forehead 3 times.
What’s your next tattoo?
I'm not too sure. I'm deciding whether to finish my left arm
or start on my right.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to get their
first tattoo?
Please do your research on tattoos and the artist. Also have
a really good long think about it and the future.
What’s your biggest inspiration, what keeps you going?
My mother, friends, and family are what keep me going.
What is one thing that life has taught you?
Be positive, relax and enjoy.
Will you be getting anymore?
One day I will be covered from head to toe.
Do you have a favorite quote?
"Live and let live."
Anything else you would like to add?
My
Twitter! >@declannips love to talk to tattoo enthusiasts! Thank you! :)