Today we’d like to introduce you to Kurtis Tamanaha.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born in Los Angeles and grew up in Pomona, CA. After I graduated high school, I ended up working in the tech field, went to community college and eventually graduated from CSUB with a degree in Computer Science/Computer Informations Systems.
While I was in the dorms, I didn’t like to party as much as everyone else since I was there only to graduate and get out so in my free time I ended up just drawing. People first started asking me for drawings and eventually tattoo designs. That ultimately ended up with people wanting me to tattoo them…
During my junior year, I’d college, I ended up getting a full-time apprenticeship in a local tattoo shop.
By my senior year, I ended up relocating to San Diego and ended up doing another apprenticeship for around three years.
I just started working at chapter one tattoo in ocean beach starting at the end of February.
Please tell us about your art.
I am a tattoo artist that specializes in freehand Pacific Islander & Filipino artwork.
I chose this particular artwork to get closer to my cultures and a better understanding of our traditions/ folklore.
Being born and growing up stateside, we tend to get a very filtered and adjusted version of our roots. We will always be disconnected, however, it doesn’t mean that we still can’t have something that resonates with us on more rooted/ancient level.
My tattoos usually consist of modern Polynesian and Filipino motifs used to create a more blended and modern take on traditional tatau/batok. Just as in Southern California, a lot of islander culture is being shared/respected with each other because thereof that sense of community/village among us. I believe my style of tattooing reflects that and is just a product of the environment.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
I ended up leaving behind the comforts of a degree and an office job. It was probably the hardest thing I had to do, which was jumping into the unknown.
Moving to another city with no money or any real place to stay with a pregnant wife. Some might have called it stupid, but I believe that God provided for us. He put us in the right place at the right time and removed us from places where we didn’t belong.
The only advice I can give is that you can only do something great if your willing to take a chance and believe.
I don’t think I’m there yet to give anyone any good advice on that yet, but when I get there, I’ll let you know.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can visit my website at kurtistattoos.com or my more recent work on my Instagram @kurtistattoos
Contact Info:
- Website: Kurtistattoos.com
- Email: kurtistattoos@gmail.com
- Instagram: Kurtistattoos
Image Credit:
@kurtistattoos
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