We had the good fortune of connecting with Russell Rae-Ruemancek Apell and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Russell, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
What I value most when it comes to my art and work in general is connection. That can go hand in hand with so many factors when it comes with tattooing. I used to be a person who struggled with social anxiety for years and lacked self-confidence when it came to meeting new people. Once I hopped into this job, I had to tear my own walls down really fast and cross my comfort zone to grow as an artist and a person. This industry has taught me so many things, but the most important part was seeing the differences and creativity within so many of my clients. I’ve shared stories, had a few laughs, even shed some tears with my clients. I never realized just how much I truly did appreciate the individuality of everyone until I began to create art for others and talk with them to create their vision.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Building up to this career was a challenge in itself but it was well worth it. Apprenticeships can be tough and unfortunately in this industry it can be hard to find someone to teach you. One of the hardest challenges for me was seeing my own worth and capabilities behind the negativity of others. I struggled a lot with my own image and feeling like a burden when I came out during my apprenticeship. Since then, I have seen myself grow both as a person and artist. Today I still take every chance I can to learn something new. I don’t feel like there is an end goal to this. Just a desire to create more and make a difference with my art. Sometimes when it comes to my style, I have a hard time pinpointing it. I enjoy trying new things and jumping around with ideas. Most often I have stuck to a colorful block art style with my work. I like the abstract side of using less linework to create an image. Animals, plants, mythical creatures, etc. are some of the things I try to mostly focus on when it comes to subject matter. I’m a smaller artist with not that much of a following. Sometimes that can be tough, but these things take time when it comes to this sort of work. I will always advocate working in a safe space, ensuring my clients feel heard about their ideas. I think it’s important that artists listen, and we work to create this vision with our clients on a mutual understanding of what they want. I’m proud to be able to create these pieces of art for people and get to experience that moment of a new tattoo with them. It’ll be exciting to broaden my work into even bigger pieces and more abstract ideas. If you have an abstract animal themed tattoo in mind, I’d love to hear your pitch!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a pretty laid-back person who enjoys much more calm activities. Luckily enough out here there is a wide range of activities and places to visit. Nature journaling can be a great way to get outside and enjoy the weather. One area I always recommend is the Wild Animal Sanctuary out in Keenesburg, CO. I like to bring my sketchbook and a good set of binoculars. The area is beautiful and the space and care they provide the animals really shows! On more calm days I’ll find myself heading to small public park areas to play my accordion and work on new songs or just improvising a tune. If you’re somebody looking for something more exciting, then be sure to not pass up an opportunity to see a concert at Red Rocks. I’ve been a couple times and even got the chance to experience a heavy rainstorm during a concert, which is probably my favorite memory and experience up there.
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 would not be the artist I am today without two of my best friends who happen to also be my coworkers. We all three have grown together over the years and seen each other become amazing artists and people. My coworker Mikayla showed me that I could open up to others when I was at a low point in my life. She is a very outspoken and incredibly smart. She taught me how to have a voice, how to laugh, and how to try new things. My coworker Izzy is someone who helped me better myself and stand my ground. She has a strength to her that I look up to quite often. She taught me to take care of myself in times of burnout. Both these people have changed my life for the better and help me be a better person every day. I owe a lot to them both and how far we’ve come since we all first met at our last shop. In a room of a thousand people, they are on my list of who I’d look for first. If you’re ever looking for some great ink from some genuine and caring individuals- Don’t hesitate to reach out to @Isabump or @Mikriles on Instagram!
Instagram: @Ragtime_Russ
Image Credits
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