Deborah Valentine

Where is your arts foundation?

I use a lot of references from architecture, also just from natural forms. Biomechanical stuff, such as H.R. Giger's work. I like the French Architect Hector Dumar. He has a most beautiful organic flow to his designs.

Do you have a formal art background?

Yes, I have a degree in Drawing and Printmaking from the California College of Arts and Crafts.

Your work has a very beautiful feel to it - it's very painterly. What are your thoughts on tattoos and tattooing as a culture?

I think that there are all kinds of people in this tattoo culture. We all have a common thread, of not willing to part of society in the traditional sense. Unwilling to be a part in the machine, a cog, a drone, we are our own people and we have our own minds.

How did you get involved in tattooing?

It was a lot of HELL. I went through a lot of shit. I wanted to do it so bad I was willing to do just about anything. I left my family and everything that I owned. Then I finally got a job tattooing in Biloxi.

How long have you been tattooing?

About two years?

Do you like it?

I love it! I couldn't think of anything more that I would want to do. It is the only way I can truly express my artwork.

Your mother is here?

Yeah, we work out of the same shop.

What does she do?

She owns the shop and does the Tattooing.

For how long?

She is celebrating her 21st year in the business!

Do you tattoo as well?

No, because I do a lot of research about henna and I'm always trying new things. I could not imagine myself studying tattooing. I just want to devote myself to this work right now. Everyone thought I was going to be a tattoo artist like my mother was, but I never felt comfortable tattooing. When I started Henna tattooing, I tried it out and I loved it!

How long does it last?

With moderate care a week-and-a-half to two weeks.

Do you like a particular style?

Yeah, I like really bold color. The old traditional work with really bold line work as well.

Any particular subject matter?

I love doing pin-ups, that's one of my favorite things.

How did you start tattooing?

I worked with English Creg, he really brought me into the business. He even did my first tattoo ever.

Do you see yourself doing this forever?

Well....yeah...I guess until my eyes give out.

And for tattooing, the scene could not be in more of a state of creative flux. Now is the best time ever to get a great piece of artwork on your body that you can enjoy for a lifetime. And if you have a chance to visit any of these women artists in their hometown or come to the 4th Annual International Female Tattoo Artist Expo in 1999, you can be sure to say 'that there are some women that will never leave you'.

Justice Mitchell Loves: Art & Photography, Mom & Dad, Eileen, Friends, Music, and Film. Hates: Dan Leeds and his army of satanic, homophobic, undead girl scouts. Other Articles I've Written