TOST TATTOOS

"wear your heart on your skin"

Skyler is a 21 year old tattoo artist who has been tattooing since she was 11 years old. She will amaze you with her outstanding artwork and skills. Since she was a little girl all of her dreams and aspirations revolved around tattooing and creating. Born in Oshawa, Ontario, Skyler has worked her way up from an apprentice to a professional in just two years. As she continues to grow and learn, her abilities as an artist continue to do the same.

*INTERVIEW WITH SKYLER FITZGERALD* 

Q: What got you interested in the business?
A: "Well, my father has been a tattoo artist for 24 years, so before I was even born. I grew up around it, my life revolved around it. My first NIX convention was at 9 years old. Everything about tattooing and art just amazed me. The first opportunity at becoming an apprentice, I jumped for it. It was at 11 years old that my father put a machine in my hand and let me tattoo his leg. Teaching me the basics about setting up and tearing down, needle depth, etc.. 
Since then, I got my own little kit and started to practice on some friends, and if it wasn't for them, I wouldn't be where I am today."

Q: How long did you apprentice?
A: "I apprenticed for about 2 years, and then i was officially labeled a professional after that."

Q:What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business?
A: "Everyone supported me! My family and friends all knew I was artsy-fartsy, and have always been creative. I thank everyone for all the positive support."

Q: So, do you enjoy the job after all these years?
A: "Honestly, there couldn't be a better job. My job is to create art, and put it on someone's body for the rest of their lives. A walking canvas. I love it even more now than when I first started. Every day is still a challenge and an adventure."

Q: What would you say is your favourite part of the job?
A: " It's the people. I get such a wide variety of people. Some of them are more interesting than others but all have a story. The path that led them to getting a tattoo. Those stories are all so interesting to me. But, I also have to say that executing the design the customer wants is a part I enjoy also because it's a challenge."

Q: Are there any famous artists, tattooists or not, that have influenced you down the path of your career?
A: " As far as tattoo artists go, I'd have to say Kate Selkie and Megan Massacre. These two talented artists have such an amazing style, their use of line and colour out-stands me. There are many artists out there now, too many to name who are so talented that one has to keep on her toes to not get left behind."

Q: So, what do you think of the "scratchers" that are out there?
A: "I think they will always be there.. just like the lousy car mechanics and rip off lawyers; its just a part of the business you have to put up with. In a sense, they’re good because sooner or later, someone that gets tattooed by one of them will want it fixed. But...some never get them fixed and some are unfixable. The people with those tattoos will always think and talk badly of their experience."

Q: Of course, I take it you adhere to all safety regulations in your shop?
A: ""Of course. I do need to mention though, that the cleanest, most talented artist in the world can only put the tattoo on. It's up to the client to follow the directions given to them for the aftercare of their tattoo if they want it to heal quickly and be as bright as possible."

Q: Thank you very much for the time you have taken here. And where can we find you?
A: "You can find me at EXTREME TATTOO in Ajax, Ontario. I can be reached through e-mail at tosttattoos@gmail.com, or through phone on weekends at (905) 426-6420"