Community Highlights: Meet Chad West of Foreverinkbycali Ltd

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chad West.

Hi Chad, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Yeah, so I’m originally from New York—born and raised. But like a lot of young guys trying to find their way, I ended up out in L.A. looking for something more. I was just a kid with ambition, no handouts, no blueprint, but I knew I had something to offer. My older brother had just come home from doing time, and instead of going back to the streets, he came out focused. He helped get me into the industry, opened my eyes to the idea that we could build something bigger. That was the beginning.

We started out in Compton, then moved to Watts. We kept to ourselves mostly—but you know how it is, we made noise in all the right (and sometimes wrong) ways laughs. Life wasn’t always easy, but it was real. That city raised us. During that time, I found my lane in tattoos. There was something about the art, the connection, the hustle—it fit me. I started from the bottom, tattooing out of small spaces, earning respect one client at a time. No shortcuts, just putting in the work.

Eventually, I made the move back to NYC. I wanted to see things from a different angle, soak up a new energy. That’s where I met my business partner, Calvin. We clicked instantly. Same drive, same vision. From there, it was like a match lit—nonstop motion. We started creating everything from tattoos and clothing to short films and branded content. We’ve been flying back and forth between L.A. and New York ever since, just building—one project at a time.

The journey’s been full of highs and lows, but every chapter taught me something. I’m proud of where I came from, and even more excited about where we’re going. I didn’t just want to survive this life—I wanted to create in it, leave something behind, and open doors for the next one coming up.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Man… where do I even start? Growing up, it felt like we were born into a warzone—unofficial, unspoken, but very real. Gangs, violence, sirens at night—that wasn’t TV for us, that was life. Just walking to school could feel like a mission. You had to know who you were, and more importantly, who you weren’t. One wrong look, one wrong color, one wrong corner—you could end up in a situation real quick.

I lost friends. Some to prison. Some to the grave. And that does something to a young mind. It forces you to grow up fast. You learn how to read a room in seconds. How to speak without speaking. It’s survival, but it also builds a crazy sense of awareness and resilience.

I’ll be honest—I danced with it too. I wasn’t no angel. But somewhere deep down, I knew I had to make it out. Art was my escape. Tattoos gave me purpose. The streets gave me edge, but the art gave me vision. And my brother—he played a big role too. After he came home, he told me straight: “Don’t end up where I was. You got something.” That stuck with me.

So yeah, the obstacles were real. It wasn’t just about making money or chasing dreams—it was about making it out alive. And that’s why I go so hard now. Because I know what it cost just to be here.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
ForeverInkByCali Ltd isn’t just a tattoo brand—it’s a lifestyle, it’s a movement, and it’s rooted in culture, resilience, and expression. We specialize in custom tattoos, but our work goes way beyond the ink. Every piece we do tells a story—whether it’s someone’s pain, power, journey, or identity. We treat our clients like collaborators, not just customers. We don’t just mark skin—we help mark moments in people’s lives.

What sets us apart is the energy. From the vibe of the shop to the quality of the artwork, to how we connect with the community—we bring something real, raw, and unforgettable. We’re known for bold, detailed work with soul. Whether it’s black and grey realism, fine line, or cultural pieces, our goal is to always give people something they’ll carry with pride for life.

We’ve been fortunate to grow beyond the chair too. ForeverInkByCali has expanded into fashion and creative direction—we’ve worked with brands, done pop-ups in both NYC and L.A., and even tapped into film and visuals. We’re building a universe that bridges art, culture, and entrepreneurship.

Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the fact that we started with nothing but a dream and built something that represents not just ink—but survival, evolution, and authenticity. People feel that when they walk in. This isn’t just a business—it’s our story in motion.

So for the readers out there—ForeverInkByCali Ltd is more than just a place to get tatted. It’s where stories are written on skin, where culture meets craft, and where everyone who walks through our doors leaves with a piece of something greater.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is when my cousin would come into town every summer. I remember those long, warm days—endless afternoons filled with mischief and laughter. We’d ride our bikes until the sun started to set, exploring every corner of the neighborhood and making up games that felt like grand adventures. His visits were a highlight of the summer, a time when our world seemed full of possibility and everything was brighter. Those memories remind me of a simpler time, where family and the magic of the season made every moment unforgettable.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Foreverinkbycali