Today we’d like to introduce you to Sara Green.
Sara, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
A lot of my clients ask if I was always into art, and art surprised to hear me say no. I got my start doing typography and calligraphy. My older brother, Steven (better known as Steven Michael Saturn), picked up his first tattoo machine for fun when he was 18 and I was 16. He is an amazing painter and artist, and when he began tattooing professionally years later, told me I should try it out too. See, he hated doing script tattoos, and script was my specialty. Within a month or two, I was in my first shop. It’s been almost four years now, and although I still love script tattoos, I’ve been able to learn many styles and do a ton of rad tattoos along the way. I’m constantly learning and doing things I never thought I’d be capable of. I remember when I started college at CSULB, I was a photography major. I switched to English (emphasis in poetry) because I thought there were too many art classes required… jokes on me; I do art and take photos of it daily now. I still dabble in poetry and have a few tattoos inspired by Bukowksi. After practicing through the pandemic, and two and a half years at Mr. Inkwells, I’m now at Ace of Hearts Tattoo in Long Beach, still working alongside my brother, as well as four other very talented tattooers. I love the vibe of this shop–it’s mellow, it’s littered with artwork, and it’s in my hometown.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the things I wasn’t prepared for was the emotional side of tattooing. I remember some weeks doing multiple memorial tattoos and going home drained. I believe a good tattooer practices empathy with their clients and listens. It’s a healing experience for a lot of people, and I try to be respectful of my clients’ journeys. Another challenge is keeping up with the demand for new artwork and flash. Sometimes, it’s hard to get inspired, but my clients consistently bring me cool stuff to do. Financially, being a tattooer can be hard sometimes. Just like any other independent contractor will tell you, doing taxes, taking time off, unexpected cancellations, etc., can cause financial burden and stress. Of course, there are some difficult clients along the way, but the amount of fun, generous, and lovely people along the way far outweighs the bad.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in American Traditional, script, and fine-line tattooing. I’m also known for doing pop-up events with lots of little flash designs. I love doing spooky and colorful tattoos. I’d say the thing I’m most proud of is my rapport with clients, and my willingness to do just about anything that comes my way.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’d say is to not believe in imposter syndrome. If I’d listened to every doubt in my mind, saying I’m not as good an artist as someone else or I can’t do a certain style, or I’m not good enough, I would’ve missed out on so many good things.
Pricing:
- $100 minimum
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ladyliketattoo
