Today we’d like to introduce you to Shane Varner.
Hi Shane, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started designing tattoos for people that knew me and liked my art. It got me thinking, would I enjoy tattooing? So I began researching, found someone to teach me and didn’t look back. I fell in love with tattooing and now it’s my favorite art form. I approach tattooing like a mutual project. I’m helping someone have on their body what they want. I started to realize I was feeling other shops around me at the time weren’t providing that, so I decided to open my own shop. One that is focused on bodily-autonomy. We collaborate to get the client the best tattoo possible that they carry the rest of their lives. A shop safe for everyone.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ve had plenty of ups and downs. Most of my struggles have been with other tattooers. Some of them too focused on their vices or a ‘dog eat dog’ mentality. It’s helped me to choose to take up space anyway. And to carve the space and experience I wanted to for my clients. The guy who taught me wasn’t actually that good or knowledgeable and wanted me to focus on just tracing a bunch. It’s taken me time to improve my skills, but I’m so thankful for this journey.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I love doing all tattoos. From the simple handwriting signature from a loved one to a “impossible” cover up. My favorite style is blackwork. I enjoy the simplicity of one cap of black. I lean more towards dark, creepy themes, but love integrating beautiful nature elements like flowers and leaves. I always feel proud when I finish a super cool sleeve. One of my favorites had a dark creature floating above an abandoned church with a graveyard and lots of nighttime flowers, a decomposing plague doctor and some bones of course.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Draw, draw, draw!!! Working on your art skill can transform your skills in the tattoo world. I say, “if you cant draw it, you can’t tattoo it. Building those skills on paper is necessary so you’re not practicing that on someones skin. Also, a good/well-rounded art portfolio will make all the difference in snagging an apprenticeship,
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.darkrootstattooconc.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shane_varner/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet
