Today we’d like to introduce you to Bel Fernandez
Bel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started tattooing in a rather unique way because I never really leaned towards anything artistic, not even drawing. After studying law for several years, I realized it wasn’t something that fulfilled me, and I couldn’t see myself doing it for the rest of my life. Around that time, an aunt of mine mentioned the idea of aesthetic tattoos. My boyfriend had already been tattooing for a few years, so access to machines and ink wouldn’t be difficult. It sounded like a crazy idea, but I really liked it. Within a few weeks, I signed up for a course and traveled to learn more about this world. I got to learn about machines and inks, especially those used for aesthetic work, as well as temporary inks and dermopigmentation. However, I found it a bit boring, so a months later, my boyfriend suggested I start tattooing small designs. Bit by bit, I began drawing and creating small designs, and soon enough, I had my first clients.
From the moment I did my first tattoo, I knew this was what I wanted to do, and I fell in love with creating art on the skin. I started with small designs, mainly dotwork, and eventually found my style and what I enjoy the most. For me, that’s botanical designs because they give me so much freedom. I don’t have to be structured or limited to something fixed; I can really let my imagination run wild. My clients give me that freedom, too, which I’m incredibly grateful for.
I began this journey without knowing exactly what I was doing, but I ended up discovering the best job in the world—one that lets me travel and meet amazing artists from all over the globe, as well as wonderful people who have become friends.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been an easy road at all. I think there’s a common misconception that it is, but I’ve always taken my work very seriously because, after all, I’m leaving a permanent mark on someone’s body. People trust you, they trust your hands, and that responsibility is enormous. In the beginning, I struggled a lot with each tattoo because I was so afraid of not doing it right. I was full of fears and anxieties. It wasn’t until after a year that I started to feel more confident. It’s not an easy path, but it’s incredibly rewarding.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in botanical designs because I love the freedom they give me. Even though you might create the same flowers, each one is unique, and there’s so much room for variation. I also really enjoy the softness, the flow, and the delicacy of these designs.
What I’m most proud of is how far I’ve come. Being able to look at my work today and compare it to a few years ago, I can really see the difference and growth that’s come from all the effort and dedication. I’m proud that I can create things that make people genuinely happy.
I always try to leave my own mark—whether it’s by using different shading techniques, adding unique movements, or incorporating leaves to give it a special touch. I’m constantly evolving, learning, and experimenting with new things, but I always focus on playing with shadows and contrasts.
What are your plans for the future?
My biggest goals are to be recognized for my work and for someone to be able to look at a piece and instantly know it’s mine because of how I executed it. Another goal is to take on larger projects, like full back or leg tattoos, because I really enjoy working on those!
Looking ahead, my plans include traveling to major, internationally recognized conventions to meet new artists, observe how they work, see what they create, and learn from them. I’m also eager to hold seminars and courses to help other artists and inspire the next generation.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belfernandezink/?fbclid=fbclid
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@belfernandezink
