Meet Hailey Wheeler | Tattoo Artist

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

Hi Hailey, what is the most important factor behind your success?
I think the most important factor behind my success would be following my intuition and being myself. In a world of social media, we are bombarded with daily inspiration and being an artist can feel discouraging. As creative, it is so important to stay true to your most authentic self. In all aspects, your artistic work, business decisions and partnerships. I find that by being my weird self, I attract similar like-minded folks that understand my vision. When we collaborate, that’s where the true magic happens. Another big contributing factor to my success is my amazing partner, friends, clients and support group. They keep me feeling inspired, encouraged and loved enough to keep going. I’m so grateful for my friends and to be able to create art every day. Thank you!

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.
I am a neo-traditional and new school tattoo artist that specializes in bright, bold, rainbow tattoos. My brain has always worked in color. Ever since I was little, I loved creating, painting, drawing, and doing anything I could to make the world a more colorful and beautiful place. I started my creative journey by making jewelry. Then, I transitioned to painting with acrylics. I found a love for live painting, busking on the street and selling my art at small markets. It was all good fun, but I knew I wanted to find something with a little bit more stability as a career.

I’ve always dreamt of becoming a tattoo artist but I had no idea where to start. I began by walking into tattoo shops with my portfolio and a smile. Seeing if I could help around the shop in any way; ultimately seeking an apprenticeship.
I was lucky enough to have two separate tattoo apprenticeships. I’m grateful for those experiences, they included a lot of hard work and I learned so much along the way. I learned that there is so much more that goes into tattooing, it’s not just drawing. It’s a lot of marketing, scheduling, time management, customer service and being the best artist you can be.

Tattooing is a sacred art form that I am absolutely honored to be apart of every day. There is such a sacred connection that forms during the collaboration of the artist and client. To all the folks looking for a good tattoo artist, please be picky! It’s a sacred ritual that involves a piece that you will have on your body forever. Be patient and find an artist that matches not only your vision but also your energy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a huge music lover. Most of my time spent around the city is following great tunes. I would definitely recommend a trip to Red Rocks! Or catch a show at some local venues like Cervantes, Mission Ballroom, the Ogden or the Fillmore. I love the local vegan scene here. I recommend checking out Denver Vegan Van, Watercourse and City O City.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a special shout-out to my co-worker and mentor, Ryane Urie. Thank you for welcoming me into The Wolf Den with open arms. Thank you for inspiring me to be the best tattoo artist I can be. Your support and love means the world to me.

Website: www.Etsy.com/shop/hailstormtattoos

Instagram: @hailstormtattoos

Twitter: @hailstormtattoo

Facebook: @hailstormtattoos