Neotrad Edmonton Tattoos | About the Tattoo Process
Welcome back to the SkinartJ Tattoos YouTube channel! My name is Alana, and as always, I’m joined by the artist herself, J. Today, we’re diving into her tattooing practice, neotrad Edmonton tattoos, her process, and what makes her unique in the industry.
A Quote to Reflect On
Let’s start with today’s quote:
“I’ve learned that people forget what you’ve said, people will forget what you’ve done, but people will never forget how you’ve made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
J and I both agree this is incredibly true. People will always remember how you make them feel, and that’s a big part of what Jay strives to deliver in her work.
Tattoos and Trends
Here’s an interesting statistic for you: the term “tattoo” became the number one most-searched term on the internet in 2002. That was over 20 years ago, and tattoos have only grown in popularity since.
Nowadays, more and more Canadians of all ages are getting tattoos. The reasons are as varied as the artwork itself. Tattoos can represent:
- Self-expression
- Aesthetics and fashion
- Commemoration or emotional significance
- Cultural or religious reasons
- Scar or imperfection cover-ups
- Tattoo cover-ups
There’s truly no right or wrong reason to get a tattoo.
Expanding Jay’s Practice
Alana: Jay, what city does your practice operate in right now?
J: “I’m in Alberta currently, but that will change as I grow.”
Alana: I know you’ve expressed interest in bringing your tattoo practice to the world. Is traveling ultimately one of your goals?
J: “Very much so. I would love to travel, see a whole bunch of places, and interact with people from different cultures and perspectives.”
Alana: I know you recently had a residency in Red Deer. Where’s the next place you’d like to go?
J: “I’m considering Saskatoon, Grand Prairie, or even BC. BC in the spring would be especially beautiful.”
How Customers Find Jay
Alana: How do customers find you right now?
J: “I’m located at a studio where people can find me through walk-ins or the studio’s business platform. I’m also active on Instagram at @SkinArtJ and Facebook. The website is in the works, but those are the main platforms right now. I’m also experimenting with TikTok—it’s a work in progress but getting there.”
Alana: Your website, www.skinartjtattoos.com, features a beautiful gallery of your artwork.
J: “Thank you! It’s still coming together, but I’m excited for it to be a central place for people to see my work.”
Jay’s Ideal Client
Alana: Who is your ideal client?
J: “My ideal client is someone who is open, great with communication, respectful, and knows what they want. They’re also flexible with how their ideas are interpreted. For example, a reference they bring to me won’t be identical to what I create because I’m not the original artist. My goal is to create something similar yet unique.”
Understanding Client Needs
Alana: What is the biggest need your ideal client has that you help fulfill?
J: “The biggest need is feeling heard. Tattooing is a collaborative process. While I offer my professional insights and explain limitations based on my craft and style, I also focus on making clients feel seen, heard, and valued in the creation process. It’s about finding a middle ground.”
Alana: If your clients feel seen, heard, and valued, they’ll end up with artwork that’s perfect for them.
J: “Exactly!”
Common Client Concerns
Alana: What are the biggest concerns clients have when they walk through your doors?
J: “Budgeting is a common concern. For larger pieces, we can break them into sections, starting with line work and building up gradually. For clients who prefer full-day sessions, there’s an 8-hour discount to get more done efficiently.
“Other concerns include the healing process—some clients have allergies to certain bandages, like Second Skin, or worry about what to expect for their first tattoo. I aim to be as comforting and clear as possible, explaining every step to ease their anxiety.
“More often than not, first-timers are nervous, but within a few minutes, they realize the process isn’t as intimidating as they thought. It becomes smooth sailing after that!”
The Design Process
Alana: Are clients ever worried about liking the design you prepare?
J: “Some are, especially if they’re very specific about their vision. It’s important to collaborate and be flexible. I encourage clients to research my style beforehand, so they know what to expect. Unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment, so understanding each other is key.”
Alana: That’s why it’s crucial for clients to look at the artist’s portfolio beforehand.
J: “Absolutely. Clients need to commit to the process and understand what their chosen artist is capable of creating for them.”
What Makes Jay the Best Choice
Alana: What makes you the best choice for your ideal client?
J: “I’m open to feedback and strive to understand how my work impacts my clients. I want the experience to be positive, and if it isn’t, I’m committed to working together to make it right.”
Areas for Improvement
Alana: If there’s one thing you could improve in your practice, what would it be?
J: “Improving my artistic skills is a lifelong journey, so that’s always a priority. Additionally, I’m working on strengthening my communication skills to build deeper connections with my clients.”
Jay’s Vision for the Future
Alana: How many people do you want to help in the next five years?
J: “I don’t have an exact number. It depends on the size of the projects—smaller tattoos mean more clients, while larger back pieces, like the one I’m working on now, mean fewer clients overall.”
Booking a Consultation
No matter the size of the tattoo you’re looking to get, Jay is ready to help. Visit www.skinartjtattoos.com to browse her flash gallery, see past work, and book a consultation.
Alana: Do you prefer consultations in person?
J: “Yes. In-person consultations ensure better communication and a clearer understanding of the vision.”
Alana: That sounds perfect. Thank you so much for joining me again today on your YouTube channel.
J: “Thanks for having me! See you next time.”