Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanya Dang.
Hi Tanya, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always been a creator at heart—whether it was filming YouTube videos, arts and crafts, or drawing for hours on end. Art has always been my outlet, the place where I could express myself in ways that felt impossible elsewhere. Drawing was my first love—I was the kid who ignored my teachers in class in favor of doodling in my agenda or any scrap of paper I could find.
Over the years, friends would constantly encourage me: “You should sell your art!” “You’d make an amazing tattoo artist!” But at the time, it felt out of reach. Straight out of high school, I tried finding a tattoo apprenticeship, but it didn’t work out. So I tucked that dream away and set my sights on something more “practical. But I always say—what’s meant for you will find its way back. And that’s exactly what happened. Funny enough, it was therapy that brought me full circle. My therapist once asked me, “If money wasn’t an issue, but you still had to provide a service to people, what would it be?” Without hesitation, I said, “I’d tattoo.” That moment felt like a lightbulb turning on. It reawakened something in me—a passion I couldn’t ignore.
I started trying to teach myself, which came with a lot of frustration. But the universe (and some amazing people) showed up for me. My friend—and now coworker—Angel Parada opened a door, and I landed an apprenticeship under my mentor, Benny Lopez, at Blue Label Tattoo, where I’m proud to still be working today.
This journey has been more than just learning how to tattoo—it’s been a deep, personal transformation. I’ve grown so much as both an artist and a human being. I’m endlessly grateful for the opportunity I was given and the unwavering support from the people around me. I truly wouldn’t be here without them.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It’s definitely been a tough road—no sugarcoating that. Tattooing has its incredible highs, but it can also be mentally, emotionally, and physically draining. This career demands a lot of sacrifice and serious dedication. There were times I barely saw my friends, hardly slept, and was working nonstop. I found myself wondering, Am I really cut out for this? Finding a work-life balance was—and sometimes still is—a challenge.
It tested me in ways I didn’t expect, especially mentally. I still wrestle with imposter syndrome and the urge to compare myself to others, which is so easy to fall into in such a creative, competitive space. But I’ve learned over time that my only real competition is myself. Every day, I ask: How can I grow? How can I be better than I was yesterday?
The tattoo industry is evolving so fast—it sometimes feels like if you’re not constantly creating or leveling up, you’re being left behind. That can be overwhelming, but I try to shift my perspective. Instead of letting it discourage me, I use it to fuel me. It’s a reminder that there’s always something new to learn, another way to grow, and more depth to explore in my craft.
Every single obstacle I’ve faced has only made me love tattooing more. I hate the feeling of being stagnant—and with tattooing, I don’t think I’ll ever have to worry about that. I truly love what I do, and I’m beyond grateful to be doing it. I always say: I’d rather die from tattooing on overdrive than spend my life doing anything else. Maybe that’s a little dramatic—but honestly, it’s spot on. Haha.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in black and grey realism, a style that lets me bring depth, emotion, and storytelling to life through every piece I create. Most of my clients come to me not only for my attention to detail—but, let’s be honest—also for my personality 😉 haha. But truly, I pour my heart and soul into every single tattoo. It’s never “just” a tattoo to me. It’s a connection, a collaboration, and a chance to help someone express a part of who they are.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the relationships I get to build with each person who sits in my chair. What sets me apart is my commitment to creating a safe, comfortable, and even transformative experience for everyone I work with. I’m a big believer in honesty and transparency—I’ll always give my clients my full attention and communicate openly about what I think will serve their design and placement best.
I approach every tattoo as if I were getting it on my own body. I hold myself to that standard because I have so much respect for this craft and for the trust people place in me. Everyone I tattoo deserves 100% of me—every time. And that’s what I strive to give.
Any big plans?
I plan to continue tattooing for as long as my body allows me to. I’m excited to see how my art evolves over time—to watch my style grow, shift, and sharpen as I continue pushing myself and leveling up. There’s something so special about being able to look back and see your growth reflected in your work.
Tattooing has already opened doors for me to travel and connect with people all over, and I’ve only just scratched the surface. I can’t wait to explore more of the world and meet the incredible people I haven’t crossed paths with yet.
One day, I’d love to open my own shop—a space built on the same values that have shaped my journey: connection, creativity, and care. I hope to eventually pass on what I’ve learned to someone else who shares that same spark for the craft. Tattooing has given me so much—and it would be an honor to give back by helping the next artist find their path, just like others helped me find mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tanydang.co
- Instagram: @tanyadamn
Image Credits
@corazonphotography_ for my headshot 🙂
