Today we’d like to introduce you to Juan Solis.
Hi Juan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I give all in return and gratitude to my ancestors. My story begins with my grandfather’s and my Grandmother’s American Dream’s. To make something out of nothing! My life has been shaped by the sacrifices and dedication of my Father and Mother. Their visions of freedom have brought me here. I am grateful to be living my life as an artist.
I am Juan G. Solis Cruz. A first-generation Mexican American born and raised in Highland Park. I witnessed my parents construct and craft their environment out of necessity for six children. Both are exceptionally great artists by nature who encouraged my creative abilities to this day. Tattooing has been in manifestation since age eight. Why age eight? Well, I watched my older brother get tattooed with Solis in old English across his back. I memorized the old English alphabet by fifth grade, and lettering has been on my mind since.
At age sixteen, my tattoo journey began. I had been around tattoos all my life, and it was my turn to see what I could do! Soon, tattooing became a weekly event. A high school art teacher took notice and guided me to attend Saturday art classes at Art Center College of Design. And the “art world” was unveiled to me and my artistic dream to perfect my abilities began.
Still in high school I attended night art classes at Pasadena Community College. The classes expanded my horizons in drawing and painting. Soon after, printmaking was introduced (intaglio and stone lithography), and my journey in academia began. I received a BFA in Printmaking from the San Francisco Art Institute in San Francisco, CA, and an MFA in Print Media from Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, OR.
After accomplishing the first half of my dream, I returned to Los Angeles. Opening my first studio shortly after. My work consists of tattooing, calligraphy, murals, and commission work. To bring inspiration and innovation to my community through art is the goal.
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?
The road has been the bumpiest and smoothest journey imaginable. My environment growing up prepared me for the obstacles I faced. Living on my own in different cities, traveling, and ultimately finishing college was an exciting adventure. Learning and experiencing the good and bad in life while perfecting my craft enabled me to experience amazing opportunities.
I am grateful to be alive and living my life as a full-time artist. Keeping my grandparents’ determination to make a life from little to nothing provides infinite faith. To make something out of nothing!
A quote I admire is, “To become aware of our history is to become aware of our Singularity.” – Octavio Paz. After all, we make our reality with the circumstances we are born into.
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 work with the best of the best from all over. I do it all with one singular purpose – to serve the needs of your vision. Solis Cruz Tattoos is an independent studio in the heart of Los Angeles. Providing the highest quality line work, whether fine or bold. The work is done with precision. I specialize in black and grey lettering, portraits, and illustrations of all kinds.
Originally, I was trained in realism and a strict foundation of mark-making. These skills continue to be used in each tattoo, painting, drawing, mural, or sculptor. My current artwork focuses are in calligraphy and portraiture. I have been a persistent student of calligraphy on my own. These skills also provide a great commission client base as well.
My ambition is to bring inspiration and innovation to your vision. I want to expand your human experience through my art. Collaborating with clients allows insight into new perspectives each time. Solis Cruz Tattoos is an independent studio providing the highest quality work with an incomparable experience.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
My favorite books are Labyrinth of Solitude, Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, On the Road, and The Autobiography of Malcolm X; each of these books has continued to influence my journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: Soliscruzstudio.com
- Instagram: @soliscruz.tattoos
- Other: @soliscruz.studio
