Today we’d like to introduce you to Hoss Cruz.
Hoss, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My entire life has been influenced by art. Always becoming inspired by various methods and compositions. What really ignited my artistic lifestyle was the eye-catching art of several comic book series. I remember when I was 6 years old, I was just sketching out the 1960s intro of Batman and Robin in the classroom. My kinder grade teacher was very impressed and pointed out the level of detail and coloring, giving me strong advice to pursue a career in art.
I really didn’t take it too seriously because to me it was “just a fun project”. So I continued to sketch, paint and enjoyed every bit of the creative process. My painting experience happened when I was also very young, 9 years old. An opportunity to attend a private art studio was what really opened my eyes. Learning different mediums and techniques was very challenging and fun.
I understand that the difficulties can be intimidating, and when they are accomplished, it feels beyond words to me. One of the most difficult methods is tattooing, there is nothing simple about tattooing. Just to produce a clean line is heart-stopping, so challenge accepted! My tattoo career began in 2003, since then, my passion for art has grown intensely. It’s very satisfying to create on the skin and to see my clients wear my art.
Every day and every session brings excitement to my life as I continue to create on the skin. Currently, I have two professions, oil painting and tattooing. I continue to create oil paintings and exhibit my art in galleries and shows. Currently, my loyal tattoo clients appear to be art collectors and ask me for original concepts for their skin.
Great, 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?
Of course, there is no smooth road, being an artist comes with a lot of hard lessons. Television portrays the life of a tattoo artist being lavish and easy. I can’t speak for others, though I can assure you that my tattoo artist friends and I are constantly facing challenges and hard obstacles. These obstacles are lessons to achieve a higher potential.
A perfect life is too bland, it will leave you in a deep illusion that can tear you down later. There is no talent or magic powers, we are all human. Hard work, discipline, and dedication takes a lot of effort and time. Persistence in doing this daily helps build my momentum.
Currently, my days have 38 hours of creativity. Designing artwork, oil painting, tattooing, doing research, and business management daily. Even though challenges can be extreme, I try very hard not to fall into the “comfort zone”. I’ve fallen in love with the process, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Robot Tattoo Studio – what should we know?
Bold artistic concepts rendered in tattoos. When clients come to me for art, I like to set up a consultation so that I can gather ideas to see what can work best. Planning is very important, discussing placement, color, direction, and flow. Because of my oil painting experience, I love to illustrate the design directly on my client’s skin.
I’ll use markers to fully illustrate the direction and then make it permanent! A great deal of artistic techniques are incorporated into my work. Whether its a portrait, watercolor tattoo, Japanese, etc., you can always expect an extravagant outcome!
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Keeping up with my client’s progress, between illustrating ideas and aftercare. The care of my client’s tattoo is my main priority. My business is based on a modest level. I like to provide friendly settings within a comfortable atmosphere.
Pricing:
- Flat rates on single sessions. $100-$1,500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tattooartistinsandiego.com
- Phone: (619) 546-1148
- Email: hosstattoos@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hosstattoos/
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