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

Hi Joe, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I believe if you take a risk you must be willing to fully accept the outcome. For me, I had a career as a fireman in the USAF for 10 years and after I began my apprenticeship I knew that I wanted to leave that job behind and go for it with tattooing. It was a huge risk for me to take, but I was determined to do this for the rest of my life. Today I am so thankful to have the opportunity to live this amazing life doing something that I love.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I like to make art and have made art in many different mediums for years. I’m most excited about having many years to continue to hone my skills in tattooing and painting. It took me a lot of hard work to get to where I could really support my family off of art, it wasn’t easy but the best things never are. The biggest challenge to overcome was really just myself and my own judgments on what I was doing. At a certain point I realized I just need to give myself a break and just enjoy the process. Someone once told me frustration means that you are growing, and that is the truth. I’ve worked hard for this and no matter what happens I will continue to give my all to tattooing and the art world.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love showing people Manitou Springs, Garden of the Gods and any hiking trails I can around the area. If they’re brave I’d take them out dirtbike riding at Badger Flats or to any lake nearby to do some kayaking. They would definitely have to give MacKenzies Chop House a try!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mother and stepfather have always stood by me and encouraged me to live life the way I see fit. Without them and their positivity for my life, I don’t know where I would be now. I’ve always been encouraged by curiosity also, it has led me to some great adventures in my life. Really, anyone who comes in to see me offers me great encouragement to continue to try to do my best every day. My wife Kristin has also been so supportive and patient throughout a good chunk of my tattooing career, she always picks me up when I’m down and I am so grateful to be able to ha e all of these amazing people supporting me.

Website: www.joefuncktattoo@gmail.com

Instagram: @funcktattoo

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