Jennifer Hinrichsen
from Kansas
Where did you grow up?
Wichita, KS.
How was it growing up there, would you say that it
influenced you?
Growing up, my mother was always coming home with a new
tattoo. I was fascinated with them. As soon as I turned 18, I had to get one. I
was hooked ever since.
When did you start getting tattoos?
My first tattoo was when I was 18. My mom took me and I picked
a flash piece of the wall, a teddy bear on my back shoulder, which is now
covered up.
How would you describe your style?
I have a mixture of styles…I can’t just stick with one
style.
Do you consider tattoos as a serious art form?
Yes! Same thing as a painting or drawing on a canvas… it’s
just on skin!
How do you see the tattoo culture right now?
It’s becoming more accepted and I’m seeing a lot more people
now a day’s fully sleeved, especially women. I think we still have a ways to go
on acceptance of tattoos in the work place. I’m a dental assistant and can’t
have any tattoos showing…my boss is old fashioned and hate them.
What has been your inspiration for getting them?
For years, I would see lots of beautiful women getting full
sleeves and covering their bodies. So I decided what the hell, why not go for
it! Haven’t regretted it since!
What’s your favorite piece?
My favorite piece is my Dia de los muertos tattoo on my left
arm that Josh Cruse (JP Cruse Professional Tattooing) did a few years back,
Do you catch people starring at you because of your ink?
All the time! I can’t go anywhere without getting stopped
and people asking questions and wanting to see them closer.
In your opinion, do your tattoos change your mood often?
I don’t think they change my mood at all. Most of the time I
forget I have them.
What’s your most significant tattoo and why?
It would be my key on left wrist. My fiancé has the lock on
his right wrist, so when we hold hands, they touch (I know, kind of corny).
What advice would you give to someone wanting to get their
first tattoo?
Don’t pick something off the wall, do your research on the
tattoo artist, and go with something you know for sure you will never regret!
Will you be getting anymore?
Of course! I still have plenty of room.
What’s your biggest inspiration, what keeps you going?
My family is what keeps me going, allowing me to do what I
want and being my biggest supporters.
What is one thing that life has taught you?
Be strong, don’t give into negativity, and just enjoy
life!