Today we’d like to introduce you to Summer Shield.
Hi Summer, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Austin, TX with a community that was enthusiastic about art. It did not come to much of a surprise that I jumped at the first opportunity to turn my art into my career. I started my tattoo journey at 19 years old, one year after moving to Eugene, OR. I was always interested in pen and ink drawings with stand alone subject matter, and was told from a young age that my art would translate well into tattoos. Once I received my Oregon Body Art Practitioner license, I worked in a couple shops in the Eugene/Springfield area. After five years in the business, I ended up curating my own private studio that has been a dream come true for the past three years. At this point in my career I am focusing on larger scale, transformative art pieces. I also enjoy traveling to maintain my curiosity and pursue fresh perspectives on everything from practical techniques to business operation.
Alright, 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?
Tattooing is a very humbling medium. Every body is different and there are many variable factors that can affect the final product. Often times as artist, we are our own worst critics. The pressure to make something that is permanent “perfect” is a unique challenge. For most people, it can take years to develop basic skills, and then more time to curate a specific and unique style. Tattooing is an art medium that always leaves me wanting more.
Additionally, I think many small business owners get caught in feeling like we are our own worst enemy. Discipline vs work/life balance. Never “clocking out” but always feeling like there is something else that needs to be done. Being a one-man-band with a lengthy job description.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a tattoo artist that specializes in illustrative line art as well as ornamental blackwork. I am often inspired by nature, architecture, art nouveau and custom requests. I aim to create tattoos that are both powerful and elegant, that complement each individual client. While people often view tattoos as commemoration or association, I aim to make art that is focused on transformation. I often see tattooing as a self care and self actualizing practice or simply exercising our autonomy. This motivation is healing for people who are looking for gender affirming care and people looking to reclaim their body after traumatic experiences. I am most proud of my large scale front torso designs (chest and stomach). It is an honor to be trusted with such a central and visible area. My goal is to aid people in rebuilding their connection to themselves and their bodies. Building strength and confidence through the resilience and reward of tattooing is a profound way to empower people, particularly the queer community, women and minorities.
How do you define success?
I define success through the consistency of my practice, which is fueled not only by my enthusiasm but by the participation and excitement of every person I collaborate with.
Pricing:
- $200 per hour
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stubbornsprouttattoo.squarespace.com/contact
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stubbornsprouttattoo/
