Meet Kyle Walker of Even Keel Tattoo in Pacific Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyle Walker.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Originally from the East Coast, I moved out west in 1998 to start my tattoo career. Sounds weird, but tattooing was illegal in Massachusetts until 2001. So, I found an apprenticeship in Salt Lake City, which eventually, led me to San Diego. In 2002, I moved to Pacific Beach to open and manage a shop on Mission Boulevard. In time, I found myself working at Guru Tattoo where I had the pleasure and opportunity to work with some of the finest artists in the industry. In 2015, my business partner Nate Banuelos and I decided to open Even Keel Tattoo in Pacific Beach. I am lucky to have worked in the same area for so long and I wouldn’t be where I am without my loyal, local clientele. I love scuba diving with my wife, and it’s always fulfilling to translate my underwater experiences into artwork. Anyone who is familiar with my work knows they can expect to see plenty of crazy sharks and ocean wildlife imagery. A few years ago, I combined my passion for ocean conservation and sharks and created a Shark Weekend fundraiser event to benefit our friends at Shark Allies.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Obstacles are a matter of perspective, and I consider them to be learning experiences. Life, of course, throws curveballs, but I try not to stress about things too much. The support of friends and family inspires me to work hard and push myself.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Even Keel Tattoo story. Tell us more about the business.
Even Keel Tattoo is a tattoo shop located on Cass and Diamond Streets in Pacific Beach. We have a crew of five artists: me, Nate Banuelos, Denny Besnard, Tim Howell, and Erik Guy. Our shop has a positive, comfortable vibe where anyone is welcome. It’s also a miniature nautical museum. Every tattoo we do is a quality custom piece that reflects the artistic collaboration between client and artist.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I am lucky to have been part of an industry for the last eighteen years that has treated me so well. I definitely believe in hard work way before luck.

Pricing:

• $100 shop minimum

Contact Info:

• Address: Even Keel Tattoo
  4672 Cass Street
  San Diego CA 92109
• Website: www.evenkeeltattoo.com
• Phone: (858) 581-9195
• Instagram: @kylewalkertattoo

Image Credit:
@kylewalkertattoo

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