Check Out Javier Rivera’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Javier Rivera.

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 been tattooing for the last 18 years. I started out in a small town in Delaware. The business was much different then it is now. But I worked in several shops throughout Delaware for about 6 years. After that I moved to Atlanta (The first time) for about 2 years. Then I left again and went to Philadelphia. After that I spent some time in Austin TX and eventually found myself back in Atlanta. After Covid I was getting kind of burned out on how more traditional shops and shop owners typically operate. So I decided to open my own semi private studio called Be Kind. I wanted to create shop I would’ve wanted to work at. I specialize solely in traditional Japanese inspired tattooing which is mostly large scale.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I don’t think any journey worth traveling is smooth roads! That’s part of the adventure of life! During my time in Delaware, it got hit pretty hard during the pill epidemic. So I struggled with addiction for a little while. It’s essentially the major driving force that made me want to leave. I needed to get away from bad habits. Which I did and haven’t looked back. I’d say that was one of the more darker times, but taught me heaps of valuable lessons. So I don’t regret it. Besides that sometimes you run into shop drama or just unexpected things happening. It always sucks when you’re in it, but usually looking back there’s always something valuable to take away from it.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a tattooer and I specialize in Japanese inspired large scale tattooing. I think besides that I’m known for my calm and kind demeanor. I’m extremely proud of where I came from and where I am now. I’m so stoked to have my own place and to be able to work next to some of the best people in my industry. I think what might set me apart is my attention to detail. I study all the time so I can guide my clients into appropriate motifs. I want to honor the history and craft to the best of my ability.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Honestly, I’ve been lucky to rub elbows with a lot of wonderful folk. Tattooers and otherwise. They’ve all had a hand in helping me along the way. Even if it was showing me NOT what to do. I’ll be forever grateful to everyone whom I’ve met and have guided me along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.jriveratattoo.com www.bekindtattoo.com
• Instagram: @jriveratattoo @bekind.tattoo