Today we’d like to introduce you to Serg Neira.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Serg. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was always drawn and fascinated by the craft of tattoos. I was around 15 years old when I got my first one, I didn’t know much about the craft at the time I just really liked the fact that a needle can create an image almost like a photograph. Initially, my Mom wanted me to school and pursue an art degree, but due to my status in this country I couldn’t afford to go to school, so instead, I took a different route. Around the age of 17, I met my mentor Antonio Hernandez, who tattooed me a couple of times beforehand, we became friends. Shortly after he seen my drawings and projects I had done in high school he asked me to be his apprentice. I had to sacrifice a lot of my spare time to learn how to tattoo. I then started tattooing when I was around 20 years old. It was rough because I didn’t get to do it every single day, I would get a few clients here and there, but luckily, I had the support of a lot of friends and people that believed in me. I then started to pick up on things and got busy during my first year. I have to say that I feel very blessed and lucky to wake up every day and pursue my passion. Tattoos to me are valuable and I love to do it, it’s more than just a career, it’s my life’s work. I now have a waiting list of 6 to 7 months in advance to get work done by me, which is something I could not have imagined when I first started. So thankful for the support.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Becoming a tattoo artist has not been easy. Learning how to master lines and shading took months of practice. It doesn’t even end there, it was constant criticism fighting against stereotypes that exist about a tattoo artist. At first, I felt like people looked down on me because of my chosen career, but I’m happy about that criticism because I feel like it made me a stronger more confident artist.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Tattooartbyserg – what should we know?
I specialize and I am also mostly known for doing black and grey realism. As of now, I am currently working for my good friend and boss Israel Maya but I do plan on opening a private tattoo studio in the fall of this year.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Definitely, wake up every day with the desire to give it my best. Analyze my own work and criticize it. Look at the work or take advice from people I idolize to catch different techniques to use on my tattoos and always be willing to learn more.
Contact Info:
- Address: 3959 w Irving park,
Chicago, IL 60618 - Email: artbyserg@gmail.com
- Instagram: tattooartbyserg
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
