Meet Myles Duval | Tattoo Artist

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

Hi Myles, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing I think people vastly overlook in the tattooing world is how much of our time is actually spent working. The old timers in my shop always have the motto of it being a “lifestyle”, and that’s because it really is. Any time not spent at the shop actively tattooing people is spent working on and preparing designs for the next few weeks to come. It’s something that is integrated into our at-home lives, so if you’re not devoted enough to the craft it can deter a lot of people from committing to a full-time career.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think above all else, the most important aspect of my job is how I interact with people. When you are intimately working with people and their bodies, bedside manner can make or break somebody’s tattooing experience. I try my best to go that extra mile to make people as comfortable as possible in my chair. Especially in a male dominated industry, my female clients have expressed their gratitude in creating a very judgment-free space. I know I am one of a few different queer/trans tattoo artists in Longmont, so making sure all of my clients know they are completely safe being themselves around me is something I take a lot of pride in. I think tattoos are such a beautiful form of self expression and nothing makes me happier than giving somebody a permanent piece of art that perfectly reflects who they are as a person.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Two of our favorite spots in town are Longs Peak Pub & Taphouse and The Roost. We’ve had excellent experiences with the staff at both establishments and you can get great quality food & drinks without spending a ridiculous amount of money. Juniper foods is also a great hangout spot with even better coffee. My personal favorite store in downtown is Blackbird House apothecary, they have some of the coolest selection of crystals and taxidermy and other wonderful witchy things at very reasonable prices. And if you’ve got time, come to Main Street Tattoo for a tattoo or piercing!

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?
This may come off as a bit cheesy or cliche, but I really do have to thank my Mom for supporting my art in the very early days of my childhood to get me to where I am today. She has always encouraged me to give it my all and jump head first into any opportunities that have presented themselves. She has always pushed me to go towards my passions and follow my dreams, and her support helped me find the confidence to go that extra mile.

Instagram: MylesDuval_art