Karissa Elizabeth Young from NYC
Where did you grow up?
Corn fields of
Indiana.
How was it growing up there,
would you say that it influenced you?
It influenced
me to get out of there! Seriously, Indiana is a great state full of amazing
people. Not my scene, I had to branch out to something bigger!
When did you start getting
tattoos?
I waited until
I was 18, because my first was on my lower crotch, I wanted the artist to feel
comfortable.
How would you describe your
style?
Glamorous meets edgy. Polished and classic.
Do you consider tattoos as a
serious art form?
Yes, for me it
is all about collecting pieces from amazing artists. Instead of their work
being on canvas, I have it on my skin.
How do you see the tattoo
culture right now?
I’m thrilled
that people are starting to accept others with art on their body and that
society is recognizing that it is not so taboo. I wish that people would invest
more in their work and artists.
What has been your
inspiration for getting them?
Individuality.
Permanent reminders of where I have been in life or where I want to go.
What’s your favorite piece?
My leg sleeve
is my favorite. It is done a newer traditional style. A lot of traditional
Sailor Jerry flash and other nautical pieces that are classic.
Do you catch people starring
at you because of your ink?
Yes, I knew what I was getting into when I decided to put this
artwork on my body. Sometimes it can be aggravating, but it's best to keep a
level mind about it.
In your opinion, do your
tattoos change your mood often?
No, not the
ones I have on me already. However, I become a lot happier when I get a new
one!
What’s your most significant
tattoo and why?
I have a Jaguar Princess
tattooed on my calf. Someone very special to me originally painted it for me
and then tattooed it on me. It is an absolutely beautiful piece done by a very
talented artist.
What advice would you give to
someone wanting to get their first tattoo?
THINK
THINK THINK! Invest in your artist and be good to them!
Will you be getting anymore?
Not
even close to being finished!
What’s your biggest
inspiration, what keeps you going?
My stubbornness keeps me
from never taking "no" as an answer and my drive to be successful and
passionate in all that I do.
What is one thing that life
has taught you?
Patience, young grasshopper.
Do you have a favorite quote?
"Darling, the legs aren't so beautiful, I just know what to do
with them. - Marlene Dietrich.