Meet Derek Martinez | Tattoo artist

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

Hi Derek, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I think the most important factor behind our success is how we treat the people who come into the shop. I feel tattooing has started to become impersonal. We like to connect with our clients and give them a comfortable personal experience. We sometimes spend hours on end with people creating art and if that experience is strictly business…….we’ll, I feel you may not have a repeat client there. It’s certainly not how I would want my own tattoo experience to go. So we make it a point to change that and involve our clients in the process and get to know them. I think that makes for a greater experience and the people are more likely to come back and tell other people about your business if they know you, are comfortable with you and, of course, get a great piece of art. At the end of the day it’s not just solely about the art, it’s also about new connections with people and creating an enjoyable experience for our clients.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve loved art ever since I was young. I was always drawing and taking art classes when I had the chance. I create art in many different mediums from acrylic to airbrush to tattooing and quite a few more. I do anything from animal portraits, to landscapes, to new age creations. I’ve never stuck to a certain style or subject when it comes to art which I believe has made me a better tattoo artist. Some artists stick to a specific style or subject matter which is fine but I pride myself on being able to take on any tattoo that walks through my door.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There is a lot to do and see in Durango. First on that list in my opinion would be a day of fly fishing the Animas river. I’m an avid fly fisherman and spend a lot of my free time doing it. We also have Mesa Verde a short drive from town which is one of the coolest places you’ll ever see!
I’m an outdoor type so the area is fantastic for hiking and mountain biking. There are multiple trail systems right in town, and the view here are second to none.
There are ton of great places to eat in town and my favorite by far is Pop Sushi.
For being a smaller town there is something for everyone here.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe a ton to my better half, McKayla, who sacrifices the most and puts up with long days and nights to help me pursue my dreams and goals. I also owe a shoutout to my mom, Cameo, my sister, Nicole, my brother, Gerald, and my grandma, JJ, for always supporting me and urging me to follow my passions and dreams.
Without the support of these very special people in my life my path would have been much longer and harder.

Website: Heathentattoo.co

Instagram: @heathentattoosllc

Facebook: Leeheathen Martinez