Today we’d like to introduce you to Austin Gerald
Hi Austin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Well I’ve always been a crafty/artsy kid. All the way back in elementary school i remember enjoying art class the most, I even entered my art into a few state fair contests and placed! I then started watching anime when I was in the 6th grade and that sparked something in me and I then knew I wanted to be an artist for real. I drew everyday for years studying different anime styles and other art forms. I did 3D art in high school to get my hands on different mediums of art to help me get into a art school, because by this point I was in the 11th grade knew I wanted to be a animator/ video game illustrator. So I was building up my portfolio. I did apply to SCAD didn’t get in and VCU in Virginia which I did get into. But one thing lead to another and I didn’t get to complete my time at that school. I do love the city of Richmond but I had to move home. While I continued my studies at midlands tech I thought to myself why I don’t have any tattoos yet? I was 19 so I started getting tattooed and I then met my mentor and friend Allyson. She saw something in me and when she found out I was a artist and saw some of my work she said I should tattoo. Now I did think tattoos were cool when I was a kid but never knew how to get into it. So I saw this as a opportunity to do something with my art that meant something to me and others. Because at the time I was working at Kroger, a pet resort and I was in school to transfer to USC. After being an apprentice for a while and seeing what all being a tattoo artist has to offer. I said to myself I can really make an name and career for myself with this. So either become a full time artist or keep working part time and going to school for another 3 years? It was a easy choice and that decision was 6-7 years ago. I’ve been so many places with this career and done so many cool tattoos! Met so many cool people and made so many friends. Art is my life and I’m glad it chose me!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s had its ups and downs I remember all the time it took to get to this point in my art career. I’d say I’ve had more ups then downs though, I’ve been pretty lucky and blessed.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
When I first started art I just use to draw what I saw and what came into my head. I then started doing portraits with charcoal, but as time went on I found I like drawing anime more so I focused in on that. I then started tattooing years later and then anime became popular! So here I am getting to put anime on people everyday! That is what I’d say I’m know for. My clean line work and anime! I’m very proud of how far I’m come and how I’m able to do anime for the most part everyday. I feel like my designs and shading style plus friendly personality is what sets me apart.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Treating people the way I’d like to be treated is the most important thing to me.
Pricing:
- I’m $150 an hour
- I also offer $800 day sessions
- $100 deposits
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/g_square_tattoos/
