Stuart Reardon
from Carcassonne, France.
Where did you grow
up?
Bradford, Yorkshire, England, United Kingdom.
How was it growing up
there, would you say that it influenced you?
Growing up in Bradford was fine. It didn’t really
influence me into getting a tattoo. I realized there are some really great
tattoo artists out there, especially like Roy and Paul Preistly at SKINSHOKZ
who created mine.
When did you start
getting tattoos?
I began building my tattoo at 26 then finished at 28. I
had work done on it at the end of every season, so it would have time to heal.
At one point I had a really bad achilles heal injury and used the pride in my
tattoo to help me get over and through it.
How would you
describe your style?
This tattoo design style is a mixture of tribal Samoan
and Aztec tribal patterns. I explained the design and look I wanted, then let
tattooist Roy Preistly do his job.
Do you consider
tattoos as a serious art form?
Yes, I definitely believe tattooing is a serious art
form. The artistic, creative and imaginative skill is to be respected. That's
why it's becoming more and more popular every year.
How do you see the
tattoo culture right now?
I think the tattoo culture is growing and becoming more
widely accepted, especially with celebrities, executives, professionals and
many others now getting tattooed.
What has been your
inspiration for getting them?
I guess I always wanted to get tattooed from a young age.
When I made up my mind and decided on my design, I sought out a good tattooist then
got it done. A time ago, I was getting over bad injuries, putting my energy
into a fantastic tattoo helped take my mind off of the stress.
What’s your favorite
piece?
I actually only have one, though it’s very large, made of
different pieces, the whole design is my favorite.
Do you catch people
starring at you because of your ink?
I do, sometimes. However, because tattoos are more
accepted and common these days, I guess they're probably interested in who
designed it or where I got it done.
In your opinion, do
your tattoos change your mood often?
Great question, yet I have to say being tattooed doesn't
change my mood. It does at times make me question having it. Some days I love
it and wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. Then there are those days I
sometimes wish I had never gotten it at all. Funny how I still go back and
forth with it.
What’s your most
significant tattoo and why?
Getting my tattoo back then helped me get over a bad
stage with injuries and other personal stuff. This is its importance. It’s of
significant sentimental value to me.
What advice would you
give to someone wanting to get their first tattoo?
I advise that before getting one to make sure it’s what
you really want, what you'll always
treasure and always be meaningful for you. It's a permanent change to your
look. So be sure about getting it.
Will you be getting
anymore?
I am not sure if I am getting anymore. I find having it somewhat
addictive. It's always tempting to get adjustment or edits to make the tattoo
look better. Right now, I can't say for certain.
What’s your biggest
inspiration, what keeps you going?
Belief in myself, the love of family, what I'm doing to
continue growing personally and professionally is the core of my inspiration.
What is one thing
that life has taught you?
Success comes from persistent hard work. Giving up accomplishes
only one thing, failure.
Do you have a favorite
quote?
“Grip, rip it and live life! Live the dream.”
Anything else you
would like to add?
Thanks so much for this feature opportunity. The exposure
you bring in share with the many who love tattoo art is highly commendable.