Meet Your Artist VERONICA RODRIGUES
How did you first become interested in tattooing?
Tattoos have always piqued my interest since I was a little girl. My fascination began after visiting a tattoo shop in Italy with my mom for her first tattoo—my name in Chinese. Walking into the shop, I saw artists covered in ink from head to toe, and I thought, “Wow, their parents must be so upset!” Bold and confident, I jokingly asked one of the artists if I could try tattooing. To my surprise, he handed me a marker and asked, “What makes you happy?” I replied, “Making people smile makes me happy!” He then told me to draw a smile on his forearm and said, “Now let’s make that smile permanent.” He handed me the tattoo machine, and at seven years old, I held a tattoo machine for the first time. I have never forgotten that moment!
Who are your biggest influences as a tattoo artist?
Dr. Woo is hands down the most talented fine line artist I’ve ever seen. His precision and creativity are truly inspiring.
How would you describe your artistic style?
I would describe my artistic style as dainty and feminine. I love creating delicate lines and soft, subtle whip shading.
What is your creative process like when designing a tattoo for a client?
I always consider the client’s culture, lifestyle, and any existing tattoos they have. I aim to create designs that resonate deeply with them.
What are some of the challenges you face as a tattoo artist, and how do you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I face is dealing with imposter syndrome. I overcome this fear by surrounding myself with talented tattoo artists who believe in me and my talent.
How do you stay current with trends and innovations in tattooing?
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok play a big part in keeping up with current trends and staying connected with other artists in the industry.
What’s your craziest client story?
To be honest, I don’t have any crazy stories just yet! I always deal with amazing, kind-hearted people who believe in me and trust my work, making me feel very comfortable and secure. However, I do hear some crazy stories from my clients!
What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not tattooing?
I love anything that includes eating good food, being surrounded by good people, and listening to music that moves and motivates me. I also practice yoga and weight lifting whenever I can. But lately, I’ve been spending my free time practicing tattooing because it’s my favorite thing to do, hands down.
What’s the tattoo you really want to do?
I’d love to focus more on botanical tattoos and dot work tattoo style. I find these styles very relaxing to create—they’re artistic and timeless.
