Today we’d like to introduce you to Elaine Nerowski.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve wanted to be a tattoo artist since I was 13, the first time I was the show NY ink and realized “THAT’S A JOB??”I was hooked.
I took every art class my high school offered in order to get enough work together to create a portfolio. By senior year, age 17, I started my search for an apprenticeship. I went to a few shops and was told no, but eventually I did find a mentor and landed an apprenticeship while still in high school.
Flash forward 12 years, 3 shops, and now my very own shop, The Gallows. I wouldn’t be anywhere without the endless love and support of everyone who trusts me enough to get permanent body art from me. I truly am loving my dream everyday and I couldn’t be more grateful.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Honestly- mostly yes, I’m grateful to say.
The biggest struggle is always imposter syndrome. It’s hard to turn on creativity when you feel down, and it’s hard to feel like enough when so many talented people surround you. Over time I learned.. you never stop learning. Everyday is a new opportunity to be a better artist, do a cooler tattoo, make a new memory with a client. When you love your job as much as I do, it’s pretty hard to have a bad day.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I tattoo (mostly) black and grey realism. I’m known for my horror/portrait work, and illustrative florals.
My illustrative portraits (noted as pinned posts on my Instagram) are usually the tattoos that make me most proud. I love capturing someone’s face realistically while still making it feel like my style. The eyes are ALWAYS my favorite part to tattoo.
What sets me apart from other artists is my client connection. I become instant friends with almost everyone that lands in my chair. I truly don’t know how I get so lucky but I wouldn’t change a thing about it
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I took a massive risk opening my own studio. I did it completely solo, with all the money I had saved knowing full well that putting all of your eggs in one basket is the only way to get what you want. Thankfully, I had moral support and sweat equity from my family and friends.
The shop I have now is my dream come true in every way. I work with the kindest, most talented people I’ve ever met. Everyone takes pride in their work and making sure their clients are more than satisfied not only with the tattoo, but with the experience. We’re one big family and I wouldn’t change a thing, makes all the risks worth taking.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elainenerowskiart.com
- Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/elainenerowskiart
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/elainenerowskiart
- Other: https://www.thegallowstattoostudio.com
