Meet Derek Van Skyock | Tattoo Artist

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

Hi Derek, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic career because it was all I ever wanted. If it wasn’t tattooing, it would be something else where I could have that artistic release. To me it’s not just the idea of doing art it’s about expression and allowing me to live my true through the artistic outlet. Just being able to make a permanent mark on a person is such a privilege, especially in the current age of tattooing. As artists we have the most access to knowledge, the best equipment, and the ease of just buying supplies as we need them, Then any generation before us. As a result the competition has grown drastically allowing us to express ourselves on skin the same as the renaissance artists on canvas.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My style of tattooing is more new school then anything. cartoony characters done in bright colors, Bold lines and dynamic shading. however I love doing classic tattoo imagery such as animals, plants, and weapons.i would also say Japanese tattoos also hold a special place in my heart, I just love the execution of awesome Japanese imagery, it’s just too cool. I got to wear I am today fight tooth and nail to get it. I pushed hard to get to where I am today and if it wasn’t for determination, perseverance, and persistence I wouldn’t be doing what I love today. What have I learned, well I would say that I have learned is that no matter the chaos of the waves of life, that you have to batten down the hatches and go full force ahead. trusting yourself the entire time. I want people to know that i am always happy to help new clients with a friendly and a positive attitude. That if they need a tattoo done they can trust that I will provide with exactly what they want.

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 would take them to some of my favorite places. Bon Chon Korean fried chicken, that place is delicious. Akihabara is a fun arcade bar in Westminster, they have a ton of games. Teocalli Cocina in olde town Arvada. They have awesome Mexican dishes. We would definitely need to check out Meow Wolf for it’s out of this world experience. go on a couple hikes up into the mountains, because is it a trip to Colorado with going to the mountains? Finally we would have to catch a show at red rock just to make the visit perfect.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I of course have to give a shout-out to my friends, family, and clients. without any of these people I wouldn’t be where i am today. My mentors, who pushed me and helped me get my skills honed in so I can create these beautiful pieces today. Finally I have to give a shout out to my shop Black Altar Tattoo in Golden, CO. These guys are my other family we have so much fun together, pushing each other and learning from one another. It is truly a great place to work and get work at.

Instagram: @van_skyock

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DVSDurdyD?

Other: Booking is done through my jotform.
https://form.jotform.com/242435005350141