Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnson Luong.
Johnson, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
After graduating from college, I’ve worked in various fields hoping to stumble upon something I would enjoy and be passionate about. The idea of being a tattoo artist had crossed my mind several times, however, it wasn’t until 5 years after college that I finally made the jump. The biggest hurdle was how I was going to support myself financially, after owing student loans and putting myself through college while working 2 jobs. This was also the reason I did not get into tattooing sooner. I finally made the transition into the tattooing industry after I was okay with the notion that this that day on I would be chasing my passion and not the money. From that day since, I’ve been pouring every effort of mine into this craft.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
Since I’m still considered a rookie in this industry, I try to take on any work that comes my way as long as I feel comfortable with it. Portraits are one thing I do not touch because I feel like it’s too sentimental for people and I wouldn’t want to mess it up for people. maybe later on I’ll change my mind. People often ask what my style is, and I usually tell them I don’t have one. I’m still trying to find my own. Like most artists, I try to take all your ideas and try to bring them to life. I can’t really describe my own style, it’s just whatever looks aesthetically pleasing to me when I start doodling and formulating ideas no matter what style of art the clients requested. My inspiration stems from tons of different artists all over the world. I study other artist’s work daily and try to blend artistry with techniques I’ve learned into my work in hopes that I can develop something I can call my own one day. At the end of the day, I get that tattoos can be sentimental to people. I’m just happy when my client can walk away seeing something they asked for brought to reality and knowing it’s one of a kind, and custom designed for them.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
I think with the use of social media and the power of the internet it’s definitely become easier as resources can be found all over the world wide web. If an individual is persistent enough and has the right attitude I think there’s nothing they can’t do. I’ve read stories of tattoo artists barely in their 3rd year hammering out tattoos flawlessly and their technical applications with the tools are superb, some of them are even self-taught and learned everything online from YouTube to forums! I believe the best way to encourage and help art/artists thrive would be to host or showcase the work of the locals, maybe have vendor booths featuring local artisans and accessories designers, and live performance art that brings everyone together. We’re not here for a long time. we’re here for a great time 🙂
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can find my most of my work on Instagram @jluongart. I’ve been asked to participate in art shows, however, I don’t think I’m ready for those yet. I’m still barely figuring out how to balance my schedule accordingly with the increase of demand lately, haha.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 714-657-2880
- Email: luongx327@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jluongart
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnson.luong
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