Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Lee.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I have always been fascinated with art; in fact, some of my earliest memories are of flipping through my parents’ old art books. But as I grew older, I was discouraged from pursuing it as a career because “artists don’t make money.” So, I instead I had a more “normal career” as a kitchen designer. I enjoyed it, but I felt creatively starved. When I was laid off during the recession, my sister surprised me with a ticket to Comic Con, and then everything changed. I saw so many artists who had pursued their craft and were able to live off their earnings. It’s safe to say that I was inspired, and I immediately sought out a tattoo apprenticeship, and here I am today!
Please tell us about your art.
I have always been inspired by mystery and exploration, and I feel like I don’t come across enough of that in life; so, I try to imbue my work with a sense of magic and wonderment. I’m faced with the difficulties of being an artist, but I’m also a female artist, and that often leads to its own set of obstacles. So, in that respect, I hope to inspire other women to adopt my warrior mentality. If I can do it, then you can do it, and we’ll all be warriors.
What do you think about 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?
Society often neglects the arts, especially after the recession art was lost to many educational institutes. It’s thought of as unnecessary when in fact it’s quite the opposite. Art however will never die good times or bad. It is these very moment of strife and happiness that inspire and feed a creative mind. As well as help the onlookers understand a political moment, process a deep emotion or something as simple as feeling good in a beautiful home. It’s everywhere and unavoidable. It’s very much a part of being human and existing. Changing yet always the same and it is my hope that a day will come when society realizes how important and necessary it is. Until then we must have better access to art education, put more funding into teaching the arts. Stop trying to cut corners and make cheaper architecture. Invest not just monetarily in art but fall in love with art again as a society
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My prints, tattoo portfolio, and other original work can be found on my website, as well as my blog and upcoming events. I update my Instagram daily with new projects and new tattoos, and I have an Etsy shop where I sell limited edition items. Soon I’ll have a Patreon account and an Amazon Handmade account ready to check out!
Contact Info:
- Address: Gold Stripe Tattoo
2820 University Ave. San Diego, CA 92104 - Website: shannierosedesigns.com
- Email: shannierose@gmail.com
- Instagram: shannierose
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/shannon.lee.9406
- Twitter: shannierose
Image Credit:
Family Portrait done by : Brandon Weisman
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