Artist Spotlight: Emily Jensen – The Art and Soul of Tattooing
From an Unlikely Start to a Thriving Career in Ink
Emily Jensen’s journey into the world of tattooing is a testament to resilience, passion, and raw artistic talent. What started as an unexpected turn in her life has blossomed into a fulfilling career, allowing her to create permanent expressions of art on the skin of her clients.
Emily Jensen - From an Unlikely Start to a Thriving Career in Ink
The Journey: A Passion Unearthed
Emily’s path to becoming a tattoo artist was anything but conventional. After a challenging period in her life that led her back home from California, she found herself reconnecting with her artistic roots. While working as a waitress and trying to rebuild her life, she rediscovered her love for drawing and painting. This artistic revival caught the attention of her longtime tattoo artist, Edwin, who recognized her raw talent and offered to mentor her.
“I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to make it in the tattoo industry,” Emily recalls. “But Edwin saw something in me and gave me the push I needed.”
With a mix of nervous excitement and determination, she immersed herself in learning the craft. Friends trusted her with their skin, believing in her natural artistic ability. It didn’t take long for Emily to realize that tattooing was more than just a profession—it was a calling.
Finding Her Style: The Art of Life and Death
Emily’s tattooing style has evolved over the years, but she has found a deep passion for black and grey realism. Her work captures the depth and intricacy of photographic detail, bringing images to life in stunning monochrome.
“I love tattooing anything that symbolizes life and death, whether it’s a beloved pet portrait, a delicate flower, a grim reaper, or a skull,” Emily explains. “The contrast between the organic softness of a face and the texture of bone makes each piece truly special.”
She draws inspiration from a variety of artistic sources, constantly exploring new styles and techniques through social media and the work of other tattoo artists. By staying immersed in the evolving world of tattooing, she continues to refine her craft and push her creative boundaries.
Memorable Moments: Creating Permanent Memories
For Emily, the most meaningful tattoos are those that hold deep emotional significance for her clients. Some of the most unforgettable moments in her career have come from tattooing memorial pieces, especially portraits of beloved pets who have recently passed.
“There’s something incredibly powerful about being able to give someone a lasting tribute to a loved one,” she shares. “The gratitude and emotions that come with those moments are what make this career so rewarding.”
The Studio Experience: A Safe Space for Expression
Emily has worked in various settings, but her current home at Venom Lash offers a unique, tranquil, and welcoming environment for her clients. Unlike the traditional high-energy, intimidating atmosphere that some tattoo shops carry, her studio is a space of comfort and camaraderie.
“We joke that we’re ‘bootleg therapists’ because so many clients open up about their lives during their sessions,” Emily laughs. “Some people come in to relax, some vent about their latest drama, and some just enjoy the peaceful, judgment-free space.”
She ensures that every client feels at ease, emphasizing open communication and comfort. Health department codes and safety regulations are strictly followed, but beyond that, Emily creates an environment where clients can feel completely relaxed, knowing they’re in the hands of a dedicated professional.
The Evolution of Tattooing: Then and Now
The tattoo industry has changed dramatically since Emily first started getting inked herself in 2009. Gone are the days of loud coil machines and strictly hand-drawn designs. Today, the technology behind tattooing has advanced significantly, with sleek, silent machines, digital design tablets, and precision stencils printed on demand.
But beyond the tools, the culture of tattooing has also evolved. “When I first started, artists weren’t always the most approachable people,” Emily explains. “Now, I strive to be personable, welcoming, and easy to talk to, breaking away from the ‘old school’ tattoo shop vibe.”
Looking Ahead: Building a Legacy
With nearly a decade of experience, Emily has big aspirations for the future. Her focus now is on expanding her clientele and saving up to open her own shop one day. While she enjoys her current work environment, the dream of having her own space tailored to her artistic vision is something she’s working towards.
As for her art, she’s always on the lookout for challenging projects that push her skills further. “I’d love to do an entire leg sleeve of portraits, featuring actors, musicians, or iconic characters,” she shares. “I have a few in the works, and I can’t wait to add them to my portfolio.”
A Life in Ink
Tattooing isn’t just a job for Emily—it’s a lifesaving passion that gave her purpose during a difficult time in her life. “Tattooing saved me from a dark place,” she says. “It reconnected me to life, gave me something to be passionate about, and allows me to create meaningful art for others every single day.”
For those looking to enter the tattoo industry, she offers this advice: “Tattooing is an incredibly rewarding profession, but you only get back what you put in. Ego and entitlement will only hold you back. Stay humble, stay passionate, and always be kind.”
With a growing reputation, an ever-expanding portfolio, and an unwavering dedication to her craft, Emily Jensen is a name to watch in the tattoo industry. Whether she’s creating intricate black and grey realism, memorial pieces, or pushing creative boundaries with new styles, her work speaks for itself—an art form that is both deeply personal and profoundly permanent.
