We had the good fortune of connecting with Tamara Keeler and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tamara, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my own business to be able to produce the art I wanted to show the world in a positive, proactive environment. I also opened my own business to take care of my children as a single parent, but also work as much as I can. Balance is achievable by owning my own business.
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 was the only professional female/ African tattoo artist in the county the first three years of my career. I took on everything and anything which forced me to perfect my skills and perfect them quickly. I competed in my first convention my first year tattooing; I wasted no time showing the world what I could do. I am drawn to tattoos with multiples styles and techniques (bold lines, bright colors) and I often mix styles for a more unique stylized tattoo… one that makes you wanna look and keep looking.
I have been an artist my entire life. Every art class I was aloud to take through school I took. I was discovered by a local artist in my home town. I worked extremely hard to be the best artist I can be. I’ve done guest spots, I tattooed with some of the best artist in Hawaii for two years, I have competed in conventions, I have even purchased tutorials to improve my skills. I have spent my entire career perfecting my line work and color packing skills and I spend many nights drawing and or painting. I am a tattoo artist of multiple styles including neo traditional, neo traditional black and grey, American traditional, watercolor, and even floral (color) realism. I pride myself of the styles I specialize in and work hard to improve and grow in those styles.
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?
For a fun night out I would take my best friend to the Royal Gorge to brave the bridge or even go zip lining! Then we would stop at Diritos Italian Restaurant for some yummy pasta! Then we would stop at Cold Stone for some frozen treats and sit on Skyline Drive and enjoy the view!!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to thank my Papa for helping me open my shop. If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t have opened so quickly so I owe him everything for kick starting my dream. Also my two handsome sons Zyair and Ryzon. I left a bad situation with their dad and they gave me the courage to do so because their is nothing I wouldn’t do for them and keeping them happy, healthy and safe is the most important so because of them I was brave and left and opened a business so I could take care of them the best what I know how.
Instagram: tamarajadekeeler
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tamara-Jade-Syrena-794861047278414/
Image Credits
Self portrait: Brenden Matthews @Best Kept Moments Photo Art The rest: by Tamara Keeler