Meet Eric Chi Nguyen | Tattooer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Eric Chi Nguyen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eric Chi, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
The main reason is that I wanted to work for myself. Tattooing struck me as a profitable business. Don’t get me wrong; it’s not all about the money. Art is incredible and I am very grateful that it can provide/support my lifestyle, but let’s be real, “Gettin’ money is the main reason most people wake up.” ~Pimp C
Alarms are the actual reason, but you get the point.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My paintings and tattoos are mostly inspired by traditional Japanese/American art. When people ask me what my “style” is, I tell them Bright and Bold with Japanese/American influence.
It seems Western society glorifies individualism, while Eastern society honors tradition. I am proud that what I make is the result of following a structure and it comes from knowledge through others’ experience that is shared with me. The lifelong learning, better tattoos I will do, and branching off of what the masters have given us are what excite me.
As I mentioned before, Teddy, my family, friends/acquaintances are all a part of why I am here in my career. It hasn’t been easy; I have taken a lot upon myself to make this all work. Finances were a big challenge through all of this. Most tattooers know that apprenticeships can be tough. Having to be at the shop 40 hours a week without pay, and making money in your free-time can wear you down. On top of that, Boulder, CO is an expensive place to live . I found myself Doordashing a lot, selling some unneeded/valuable belongings, depleting my savings, and I have a friend who provides me a consistent side gig. Thank you @Hashishi_Co.
The struggles have impacted my mental health, but that’s simply another challenge to overcome. This entire journey has shown me a lot about myself and others. Mindfulness has been a growing theme; from the way I approach painting/tattooing to how I interact with people, and everything in between/beyond.
If you’re reading this and want inspiration; me, my brand, and my story are almost irrelevant. You can do anything; you just have to truly want it. When humans REALLY want something, they go and get it. Plain and simple.
I understand many people don’t have the same opportunities, but we all know someone who has “turned dirt into diamonds”.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Boulder is nice. Hiking is big out here and there’s an endless amount of options for that. I take people who aren’t really into hikes on the easy ones. Eben G. Fine Park has a couple trailheads for mellow hikes. Pearl St. is a place to visit if you’re feeling tourist-y; just a bunch of stores/restaurants, red brick walkways, and a great view of the Flatirons if you’re in the right spots. “The Creek” is a place worth visiting in Boulder. Typically filled with college kids, it’s a lively place to be. At the mouth of the canyon, it’s a nice place to take a dip in some cold water.
Don’t forget to stop by STRANGE MAGIC TATTOO and get something cool 😉.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Mr. Teddy Safarian aka BOOSTGOD, a Retired Influencer, 24/7 Comedian, and amazing Artist/Tattooer, has taken me under his wing when I have essentially nothing to offer him. He has gone out of his way to share knowledge willingly, but also motivates me to figure things out myself, when appropriate. Ted has treated me like family since day one, taught me everything I know about tattooing, and I’ll probably live longer because of how much laughter he provides at his shop (Strange Magic Tattoo) everyday. Thank you, Ted.
My family has been very supportive. Mom and Dad are not fans of tattoos, but when I told them that this was what I decided to pursue, they were happy for me. They have offered plenty of help. My sister has bought paintings from me, my brother-in-law shared very encouraging/valuable words, one of my uncles has always come through with positive energy relating to this endeavor of mine, and a cousin always shares my content/supports me. To Mimi, Hai, Ellya, Jon, Chris, and Kevin; I appreciate every thing you have done to support my career. All of this would have been impossible without my Grandma as well.
A big thank you to everyone who has gotten a tattoo from me, bought a painting, shared encouraging words, and any other positive support big or small. I had a lot of friends in Colorado donate skin early on in the journey. Friends in Utah have made it possible for me to stay completely busy for a week, when I’m guest spotting at Look Look Tattoo. Thank you to the owner, CJ Fishburn for allowing me to be there, and to everyone at that shop for being welcoming. Thank you to every one of my friends who came through and got tatted. There are too many of you to name but you are appreciated.

Instagram: chi.tattoos