tattoo artist of the week, i do the inking

For the last several weeks, we’ve used this section of Afropunk.com to feature people with interesting ink work who let is on who they are and what their tattoos are all about.  Sometimes we’ve even featured a compilation of beautiful women of color with tattoos that we find on the internet, even though we have no idea who they are (we just admire them through longingly through our computer screens).  This week we decided to switch it up a bit and feature a tattoo artist, Torin Bailey.  Tattoo artists, who in our opinion, are ballz braver than people on the receiving end, should be celebrated for their artist talents, creativity, and for being bold enough to permanently carve their artwork into a person’s skin…for a LIVING.  We caught up with 33-year-old Torin, a tattoo designer from Lancaster, who’s been inking up people professionally for the last three years.  We asked him he’s regretted any tattoos he has done on a person to the most difficult part of such a seemingly sweet job. 

Tattoo Artist of the week, I do the inking

Feature Torin Bailey

Who are you?

Torin Bailey



Age

33

Location

Originally from Coatesville, PA now by way of Lancaster PA



Occupation  

Tattoo Artist

Number of tattoos you’ve completed?  

Honestly too many to count I’ve been tattooing for over 3 yrs now. I honestly never really started counting, in the beginning I was so excited about getting the chance to tattoo that’s all I cared about. 


Favorite tattooing style?
I started off focusing on classic Asian styles of tattooing about a year ago my interest shifted to traditional American and neo traditional styles. Honestly I don’t want to just be boxed into one thing I like the idea of being well rounded. I want to able to complete whatever vision a client approaches me with.

What was it like doing your first tattoo?

Oh yes I was nervous as hell but I got over it quick. Then you just want to tattoo any bit of open skin you see.

How many tattoos do you have?

I think about 25 I haven’t really counted lately; Right now I’m looking to get a new piece soon.



How old were you when you did your first tattoo and what got you started?

I was 30 what I would consider to be a late start but I’m trying to make up for lost time. I spend a lot of time studying the art and industry. I feel that if ever get to the point where I think I can just sit back and rest on my skills I need to find a new passion in life.

What is the hardest part about being a professional tattoo artist? 

Well working in any shop competing with scratchers “street tattooers” tattooing in basements and kitchens. Its takes away from hard working, trained tattoo artist that had apprenticeships and paid there dues to get where they are. Aside form l long hours and spending time away from loved ones I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Why should we feature your work on afropunk.com? 

I believe in my work. I want to also change the stigma that some people have when it comes to tattoo artist in general but more so I want people to know that there are a lot of great male and female tattoo artist of color out there. I would be more then happy to name drop.

Do you have a particular tattoo artist you go to when you are getting your tattoos done? 

My business partner and fellow artist Sue Crecco has done a lot of work on me. But when I have the time I plan on getting work done by Kirk at Effum Bodyworks in Baton Rouge as well as Miya Bailey at City of Ink in Atlanta both very talented brothers that have  both inspired me.

How do people get more information about your shop?

Right now I’m tattooing by appointment only, I’m in the process of opening a private studio in Lancaster PA. I can be reached for appointments  or inquires via email to:thealchemist734@gmail.com or for immediate information call 610-400-9297.



Do you regret any tattoos you have done on someone? 

No I can’t say I do, if anything when a client comes to me with a bad idea I try to give them options. I do my best to get the client what they want. Sometimes what a client imagines doesn’t always translate to skin.


Are you a tattoo addict?

With out a doubt I love what I do. And I love the culture I’m always looking for an opportunity to get a new tattoo.