Meet Heather Quinn | Tattoo artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Quinn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I feel like my whole career is a risk in general. People have a sort of notion about tattoo artists, that we’re all criminals or live an unstable lifestyle. When I tell people what I do for a living they look at me differently and then when they see my artwork it’s pretty much over haha. Ive never lived or acted “traditionally” and that can be a risk but one well worth it. The subject manner of most my artwork is risky and not for everyone and that’s okay, it’s what it’s all about. Good or bad, it makes you feel something.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My artwork is on the darker side. I draw a lot of taboo subject manners. I enjoy getting people riled up a little. I’ve been progressing my whole life in this world. I started out at a very young age drawing my classmates name tags for their desks, that turned into signs for businesses or murals. Eventually I started doing art shows then hosting them. I was always hungry to get my artwork out there and be part of my local art scene. Art is a full time job, it’s constant. You really have to want to be known for it and stand alone. I guess in that respect it can be extremely humbling, You’ll be feeling on top of your game with so much engagement and your next piece may be a total flop. You’ve got to want to be the best at what you do. I never stop learning and that’s what keeps me so in love with art, it’s infinite.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If we’re out to eat or drink I’d say I’ve got a handful of amazing must sees. For one I’d recommend Woody Creek Distillers in Basalt. It’s a beautiful facility that makes Vodka, Gin, Whiskey and Rum. The potatoes are grown in the valley and distilled within the building. They offer tours and a full cocktail menu as well as host food trucks. If we’re just starting out there’s CoCo’s Coffee in El Jebel. The owner makes all of her own syrups and milks she also sources her coffee locally. To end the night I cannot recommend Eat Bistro in New Castle enough! Their menu and food is hands down the best. Not only did they stay open doing take out for the whole entirety of the pandemic but they would leave fresh made gourmet meals out on a cart every day for those in need, I’ll never for get it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many people deserve credit for supporting me and pushing me forward. My mentors Scott Fishbein, Kat Maxmon and Brett Hayes. My best friend Briana Smith for buying mostly all of my artwork haha. Anyone who’s gotten tattooed by me, bought my paintings or anything from my website. All of the artists I look up to. And Steve Jobs for creating the iPad! Plus whoever made battery packs a thing… life changing.

Website: https://sortainteresting.bigcartel.com/

Instagram: Sorta_interesting