We recently had the chance to connect with Erik “ESH ” Stevenson and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Erik “ESH “, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Drinking coffee and walking my two Rottweilers is how I start my day typically
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Erik but they call me “ESH ” my instagram profile is @satya.tattoo
I’m a tattooist since 1991. I started my tattooing journey in Albuquerque but I’ve been in Michigan now for over 25 years. I currently work at 8 Ball Tattoo in Royal Oak with a stellar crew of other tattooists.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
My father was killed in a construction accident when I was 11 weeks old. Growing up with a single mom until I was 11 yrs old really shaped how I saw the world
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I have taken a step back from tattoooing a few times in my career. First was back in the late ’90s I did a 5yr apprenticeship as a commercial electrician and again, in 2020 when I had to close my tattoo shop, Lakeview Tattoo, because of the global pandemic. Luckily I have found my way back to tattooing in both cases.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I would say honesty is the big one, including self-honesty. Having an accurate and honest character is important to me.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
You have be true to yourself and I have found I have to paint or draw or play music in order to feel like myself. I do this without expecting anyone to notice. It’s nice to get recognition but I have to create regardless if I want to be a happy version of myself
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @satya.tattoo
