Today we’d like to introduce you to Joseph Realubit.
Joseph, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Applying ink on the skin, saturated and clear enough to look like a painting. This is my never-ending challenge as a tattoo artist. The whole process and skill it took always intrigued me. I couldn’t help but feel drawn to the craft.
The start of my tattooing career began in 1999 when all I had to show was the fine art background I had come from. Without any former apprenticeship, it was a struggle to get myself even view-distance of the front line of the industry. The only time I was able to get my hands on the use of ink was at tattoo parties that would last long after midnight, and with the use of low-quality equipment and machines.
At the time, I did not have access to any higher grade tattoo equipment. So trying to create a decent tattoo without the proper tools, was a challenge, to say the least. Not to mention, I was yet to be properly trained so tuning the machines I had was out of the question. I soon realized this was not how I had pictured my ‘tattoo artist’ dream to turn out.
During this time, I was also attending school for graphic design; despite my efforts to turn towards that instead, I still had this burning desire tattoo. It meant so much to me to forget about. The excitement I felt being able to create my art to form to the human body infatuated my mind.
Before I graduated in 2005, I was presented with a golden opportunity to work with fellow artists at a local tattoo shop near my hometown. How could I refuse this chance standing right in front of me? Aware that this was only part luck, I devoted all my time and energy to use my resources I was now given. Six years of honing my skill, making friends, and building a steady enough clientele, I was able to learn a lot. Though, I was hungry for more. I wanted to dive much deeper than the surface of the industry.
By 2011, I had moved out to the Bay area. There were many tattoo artists I admired lived in that area, so naturally being the craving artist I was, that was the only sensible choice I had. Terrified and determined, I absorbed any knowledge I was exposed to. For two years, I learned new techniques and was able to work alongside some extremely talented artists. The challenges I faced forced me to become a better artist. A better tattooer. My eyes were opened and I felt closer to where I wanted to be all along.
My days in Oakland were coming to an end. I knew I had to go back to Chicago. That was where I truly belonged; the place I really felt at home. I mentally went over my time there before I left. I had learned so much and couldn’t be more thankful. Most importantly, I saw that the art of tattooing is not in the machines or miracle-workers. It is in the hard work. That is what makes the unthinkable happen.
Moving back to Chicago in 2013, I decided I was ready for my biggest effort yet, opening my own tattoo shop. I applied every ounce of energy I could possibly muster and more. I wanted somewhere truly great. Somewhere I could put all knowledge and experience I learnt into one place. I wanted to share and show people what tattooing really is. It’s about more than beautiful designs or self-expression. It’s art imitating life, the historic element of marking one’s skin with a treasured piece of their life’s story. Which means it must fit that individual to accomplish that idea.
I chose the name Awaken. I had to come up with something that tributed to my strong efforts to get here. It had to resonate with the feeling of accomplishment and state of mind I grew into. I strive and continue to attain enlightenment, just as the beautiful lotus rises from its muddy waters. Through tremendous patience and perseverance.
Awaken Tattoo and gallery. A one-of-a-kind home to fine art and dedicated artists. The outcome of determination from many years of one individual’s life and love of the tattooing craft. Even with all odds against me, I refused to stop. I wanted that dream in my head and I worked with anything I could get my worn hands on to get there. Anyone can tattoo, but only the brave can become great.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Awaken Tattoo and Gallery story. Tell us more about the business.
We are a custom tattoo shop. Our specialization is black-work, ornamental, sacred geometry and esoteric tattoo designs. The proudest part of the shop would be that we are a one-of-a-kind shop. We keep the calming and personal atmosphere that is set in our progressive environment.
We do not stand out in the general industry because we like our shop to be as non-commercial as possible. It keeps the shop unique and more meaningful. The feeling here really is set apart from the stereotypical ‘tattoo shop’ atmosphere.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
The tattoo industry is ever-changing. The challenge is to always be ahead of the trend, without disrespecting the traditions. Evolving the craft is what keeps it alive.
Pricing:
- Prices range from $150-$200 per hour
- Joseph’s, the owner’s, hourly rate is $150-$200 per hour
Contact Info:
- Address: 2802 W. Chicago Ave. Chicago, IL 60622
- Website: awakentattoo.com
- Phone: 7732524908
- Email: awakentattoo@gmail.com
- Instagram: awakentattoo
- Facebook: awakentattoo
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