Inspiring Conversations with Hector Valdez of LOCK & KEY

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hector Valdez.

Hi Hector , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I moved to Huntington Beach in the summer of ’95 from CHINO California. In 1997 I stumbled into a local tattoo shop ( HB TATTOO) and began my tattoo journey. From a client, to a formal apprentice in 1999, to full time employee in 2001.

I spent 10 years at crazy years at HB TATTOO, then moving to THE TATTOO GALLERY from 2011 until 2025 before moving into a private space in 2025 – LOCK & KEY which I share with my youngest son – Brendan Jett Valdez.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The tattoo industry has definitely had it’s ups and downs, as do many other businesses that aren’t actually considered a “necessity”. From the recession in 2009 to Covid in 2020, our industry has had to deal with a few bumps in the road.

Not to mention the amount of new tattooers who have found their way into the business.

There’s a lot more tattoo artists than ever before. Which honestly forces you to constantly market yourself and stay relevant.

Especially when there’s a lot of talented artists to choose from!

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about LOCK & KEY?
Lock & Key is a creative space, not just a tattoo studio.

Something that I’m also passionate about is serving my community in various capacities.

Our studio is a communal event space that gives artists an avenue to showcase their talents.

Whether that’s by way of hosting a group art show, a book release party , or a pop up fashion show – we have the space for it!

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
To always to open to change and evolving with the times.

In our industry there’s still a lot of pushback to having an online presence, especially on Social Media.

Either get with the times or get left behind.

Pricing:

• Small to medium tattoos are priced by size and placement.
• Larger pieces or tattoos that require multiple sessions are charged by the hour at a rate of $250 per hour.
• Also, prices subject to change based on attitude!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hektattoo.com
• Instagram: HEKTATTOO
• Facebook: HEKTATTOOER
• LinkedIn: HEKTATTOO
• Twitter: HEKTATTOO
• Youtube: HEKTATTOO
• Yelp: HEKTATTOO
• Other: Bookings and inquiries: https://www.hektattoome.com/

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Thane Gustafson