Jinxi's Interview With Tattoo Artist Justin Page
Passionate. This is the word that comes to mind when I think of my friend, Justin Page. Passionate about his family. Passionate about his friends. Passionate about tattooing. Passionate about art. Passionate about tattoo safety. Passionate about life.
This talented artist in Kingsport, Tennessee will not only knock your socks off with his beautiful tattoo work, but will make you smile and feel appreciated the second you meet him. Steve and I were lucky enough to cross paths with Mr. Page a few years ago at a tattoo convention and while we had been online pals for a long time before that day, talking in person made me feel as though we had been friends for decades. He has a kind demeanor that makes you feel comfortable and upbeat just by being at his side.
As co-owner of Ink Revolution Tattoo Studio, Justin is dedicated to his career and clients. Surprisingly, he has been tattooing for less than five years, but with the drive and determination he possesses he has climbed his way up the ranks quickly; and continues to learn and work hard, soaking in all the industry has to offer. His style could be described as possessing realistic qualities, with painterly touches. I always think his work looks as though there really were brush strokes involved, in addition to tattoo needles. It's a really beautiful effect and one that makes Justin's work easy to spy.
Page already has a high-profile clientele list with several musicians, UFC fighters, and NFL players among it; but make no mistake, he is as down-to-earth a guy as you will ever meet and provides his customers with 100% attention and care, determined to make each tattoo beautiful and meaningful.
One of my favorite characteristics about Justin is his devotion to his family. As he says, "I'm married to the love of my life, and we have three beautiful children and a silly ass dog. As I get older I realize that my family is what I live for everyday. Nothing is more important than friends and family."
It was a true pleasure to talk to Justin for this Inkerview and I'm thrilled to present him and his work to you today. Enjoy!
Were you always interested in art?
Yes, I have been into art since I could hold a pencil. I first started tattooing in October of 2006, and had been getting tattooed since I turned 18.
I always had an interest in art and was an artist before I became a tattoo artist.
You are so talented and it's always so fun to see your newest work. How did you get interested in the realism genre and what is your favorite type of piece to work on?
I have always drawn and painted faces. No matter what I would draw or paint, I would always start with an eye and turn it into a strange face.
My favorite is tattooing animal portraits. But anything realistic and challenging is cool with me.
Who inspires you in the tattoo world and in the art world in general?
In the painting world, Salvador Dali and Shawn Barber are a couple of my favorites. In the tattoo world there are so many: Mike Devries and Nikko are some of my biggest influences.
I have been steered in the right direction by Darrin White; and one of my best friends and mentor, Kyle Cotterman. He has taught me more than anyone and I am forever grateful for that.
You are not only an artist, but a business owner and a dad as well. How do you juggle your various roles and find time for it all?
I don’t find the time, that’s the only downfall. I usually work anywhere from 10-16 hours a day. I try to make time, but it seems there just isn’t enough time in a day.
I hope to spend more time with my family when my schedule isn't so hectic. I don't want to miss my kids' childhoods.
You have also been doing some cool work in the movie industry. Can you tell us about that and will you be doing more of this in the future?
My cousin got me started in FX when I was a child. He was, and is, a hero of mine. It’s always been a shared passion of ours and I’m proud of his work.
He recently did Zombieland and just finished up on a new movie coming out called The Crazies. Toby Sells is his name - keep an eye out for him.
What one word describes you?
Ambitious.
What one word describes your work?
Cyclops.
What is your favorite sweet treat?
Anything that has chocolate, peanut, and caramel in it. I have the world’s biggest sweet tooth. I would eat anything you made me, Jinxi....you rock!
*Be sure to visit Justin's myspace page and facebook page to see more of his incredible work.
Saturday, February 13, 2010 at 9:23AM