Laurel Siemasko from Baltimore, MD
Where did you grow up?
Harford County, Maryland.
How was it growing up there,
would you say that it influenced you?
There was a lot of farms and country,
definitely not for me.
When did you start getting
tattoos?
I started as soon as I could, without parental
permission, 18 years old.
How would you describe your
style?
My style is all over the
place. I love anything obnoxious and out of the ordinary. Also, anything with
an animal on it I’m sure to love!
Do you consider tattoos as a
serious art form?
Yes, my body is a canvas and
I just want to fill it with beautiful art.
How do you see the tattoo
culture right now?
As far as them being
accepted, I feel we have come a long way. I would still love to see tattoos
accepted in more work places. As long as it’s not offensive, I don’t see a
problem displaying art.
What has been your
inspiration for getting them?
I have so many ideas in my
head that I just want to put on my body. I love decorating my body with
beautiful artwork.
What’s your favorite piece?
I can’t pick a favorite, I
love them all but since I am a huge horror and zombie fan, I love showing off
the tattoos on my back.
Do you catch people starring
at you because of your ink?
Yes, everywhere I go. I
always get compliments which I love but I also get the occasional rude stare. I
am proud of my work so it never bothers me.
In your opinion, do your
tattoos change your mood often?
I love what I have and I will
never regret any of them. The all came from inside my mind and it definitely
makes me happy looking at that each day.
What’s your most significant
tattoo and why?
I have some tattoos that have
meaning and some that I just think are pure beauty. Some of the simplest ones
are the names across my feet, Splash and Romeo. These are my horses. Horseback
riding is something I have always been passionate about since I was 7. They
were my life for years and I never get to see them anymore because of work,
money, life, etc.... It breaks my heart but having them tattooed on me just
reminds me they are still there and always have a place in my heart.
What advice would you give to
someone wanting to get their first tattoo?
Get something YOU find
beautiful, something that you know you will love 30 years from now.
Will you be getting anymore?
Of course I will be getting
more. I have my whole body planned out!
What’s your biggest
inspiration, what keeps you going?
I've always been my own worst
critic. I strive to be successful and will do whatever it takes to get what I want.
What is one thing that life
has taught you?
Love yourself. Don’t let
anyone put you down. Once you love yourself you will find life to be much more
simple.
Do you have a favorite quote?
All our dreams can come true
if we have the courage to pursue them. - Walt Disney.