Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Bettley.
Hi Christopher , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I got my tattoo apprenticeship in 2003 while getting my Bachelor’s in Fine Arts in painting. Tattooing kind of “chose me” so to speak. I always thought I’d be a professor and have a dingy art studio doing small little gallery events and MAYBE sell a painting here or there. 22 years later I’ve been a full time tattoo artist, traveled to 48 of the 50 states, rubbed elbows with some the greatest artists the world and for the last 7 years have been in my private studio Last Rogue Tattoo. I’m blessed beyond belief and am so so so lucky.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like any craft there is definitely an “investment” period where you are just trying to cut your teeth and earn your spurs. So, of course, you’re not as busy as other artists who are already established which makes financial means very lean and worrisome. Ironically, its those early years you tend to be the hungriest but also, unfortunately, the most naive. Much like anyone in the shallow end of the knowledge pool of any discipline. So I think for me that was my largest hurdle. The slow climb up the mountain of knowledge. I definitely did a lot of trial and error but I can confidently say that I almost never made the same mistake twice.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In the beginning, it was everything. Any style. Almost any subject. As the years went on it was more neo-traditional that started to become what I was known for but in the last decade-ush or so it has become realism or, more specifically, black and grey stylized realism.
I couldn’t really say any particular project I’m more proud of than others. I mean, I have my favorites but that changes all the time. I think I’m just proud that after 22 years I still get excited about new projects and won’t take on anything I know I couldn’t knock out of the park.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success to me isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being resilient and forthcoming. Make a product you believe in, sell courtesy with it, be honest, and the success will follow.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherbettley
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lastroguetattoo
