Devin Stacey
I began tattooing in 2006 in Edmonton, Alberta at a highly reputable shop called Bear's Skin Art. Formal apprenticeships were at that time still the most viable method of entering the industry. They provided a lot of knowledge and guidance not available online or openly shared by artists. Things have changed over the years but I wouldn't have done it any other way.
That first year of tattooing was probably one of my busiest to date and it helped set the tone for the rest of my career. After leaning the artistic and technical abilities I was able to learn what it took to build, maintain and grow a clientele. Because of those skills I was able to move to Vancouver in 2010 and begin to re-establish myself in a new city.
Tattooing is something I don't take for granted and I've been blessed with the opportunity to meet so many amazing people throughout my career. It's truly a passion but more so an honour to have the ability to do this as a way to provide for my family.
Earlier in the "custom tattooing" days it was imperative to be versatile. I think someone's "style" can still render itself to many different genres in tattooing and art without necessarily specializing in one specific area. My hope is people can recognize my style in all the tattoos, paintings and illustrations I do regardless of the genre. Tight, clean, sharp and dynamic would be the best way to describe my approach to my art.
My goal moving forward as an artist is to never stop learning and growing. There's always room to refine yourself and hit new levels. I find working with other artists and clients in collaboration is the best way to promote that necessary growth to keep yourself eager to get up everyday and push the boundaries of what we're capable of.