Today we’d like to introduce you to John Sabin.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I’ve been drawing and painting as long as I can remember. I’m originally from Washington State and relocated to San Diego about seven years ago. I’ve been a professional Tattoo Artist for 17 years and began my apprenticeship in Rhode Island at Bulldog Tattoo. After working in New England, I continued my career at Flaming Dragon Tattoo in Tacoma, WA, where my education and skills as an artist and Tattooer were honed. After serving eight years at Flaming Dragon, I relocated to the city I call home; San Diego. I constantly strive to make every artistic endeavor better than the last and truly enjoy the relationships I build with my clients as well as their trust. I believe I’m adept at communicating with each customer to create a custom piece of artwork that exceeds their expectations. In my spare time I’m a Reserve Firefighter for San Diego County, ride BMX bikes, surf, train and spend time with my beautiful wife and son, Henry Cash.
Please tell us about your art.
I’m a custom Tattoo Artist at Remington Tattoo in Northpark. I fell in love with the tattoo process and imagery, as well as the unique challenges a human canvas represents. Generally, my artistic style is heavily influenced by traditional American and Japanese style imagery; however, I enjoy tattooing a variety of artistic styles. Tattoo, I believe, is a link to our ancestry and warrior spirit. Unfortunately, these days, I feel there is a disconnect in our culture from things that made previous generations strong. Apparent rites of passage into adulthood become forgotten and deemed unimportant in our fast-paced; technology-driven enterprises. I believe body art is a way to commune with strength and culture that shouldn’t be forgotten.
What do you think about the conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
I can’t speak for other avenues of artwork but, as far as tattooing, there is an insane number of tattoo shops in San Diego and that number seems to grow by the day. I feel fortunate to be able to support my family in San Diego through something I enjoy but I believe because of the over-saturation of tattooers, it will be tough for artists that are beginning the tattoo journey. If you have a passion for the craft, I can’t stress enough the importance of getting the right education through a formal apprenticeship at a well-respected shop. Nowadays, having a formal art education is huge too; as the artistic level of competition is at such a high level.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
People can see some of my artwork on Instagram: @johnsabin or our website: Remingtontattoo.com. I have a digital portfolio at the shop to see more of my work as well as completed paintings.
Contact Info:
- Address: Remington Tattoo
3009 Myrtle Ave. San Diego, CA 92104 - Website: remingtontattoo.com
- Phone: (619)795-8915
- Email: lonnyjaw78@gmail.com
- Instagram: @johnsabin
Image Credit:
John Sabin
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