Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Lu
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?
Tattooing has been an interest of mine since I was a young child using temporary tattoos and tracing over them with pen and sharpie everyday to increase its longevity. In my adulthood, I sought out an apprenticeship for many years while working odd jobs. Finally, I earned my stripes under my mentor, Dave.
Appreciative doesn’t even begin to describe my journey learning how to tattoo and all my amazing clients who continue to help me learn. After almost 8 years of tattooing now, including my apprenticeship, I have found a great family in the shop I’m currently at: Empire Arts Gallery in Atlanta.
I’m lucky to be where I am and I try to pay it forward in kindness and good work!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No road to happiness or success is ever smooth. To be happy and successful, there has to be self awareness and inner reflection. To know who you are and to find an occupation that reflects who you are, can be difficult to find. There is, unfortunately, a lot of imposter syndrome in tattooing and I am guilty of having it. The struggle to fit into a predominantly white male industry continues. No hate; there are so many greats who have helped pave the way for women of color in tattooing. I am thankful to have been given the chance.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a tattooer who has no specialty. I love doing all kinds of artwork in all styles. I love doing an amazing job. I love a challenge. I love making people happy. I love giving people what they envision (as long as it technically makes sense). I love that I’m open to all people and that I have worked on all different kinds and types and colors of skin. I love helping people feel. Feel better, feel more whole, feel nostalgic, feel happy, feel sentimental…. All of it.
What makes me different is that I continue to hone my craft because I care about you.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
There are endless books and inspiration out there, so it’s difficult to narrow down to a few.
Sailor Jerry Collins: American Tattoo Master (book) is a great glance into tattoo history from the viewpoint of a tattoo pioneer and expert from the early days of tattooing.
The documentary, Stoney Knows How, captures Stoney who becomes a legend in tattooing despite having a disability.
Otherwise, I’m a big fan of sci-fi and fantasy movies, books, and comics. I wish I could draw like Charles Burns.
Pricing:
- $200/hr for large work
- $100 minimum
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clutattoo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clu.tattoo
- Other: https://www.empireartsgallery.com
