Meet Jaslyn Tate of Lynk Art in Midtown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaslyn Tate.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Jaslyn. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I never thought much about getting a tattoo until my senior year in high school and being a tattoo artist never crossed my mind until my time at my dream school was coming to an end. I first moved to Atlanta in 2013 to attend the Savanna College of Art and Design (SCAD) and pursue a career in Graphic Design. I’m from Franklinton, LA, and as an artist, I have always wanted to be surrounded by a diverse group of creatives. Although I couldn’t afford to complete my degree at the university, my experience was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I’m glad I did not pass. Once I stopped attending SCAD, I had to start thinking of other creative career options that were art-related and paid enough to help me make a living.

After some research and thought, I knew the tattoo industry was it. With high hopes that I would be able to stay in the great city of Atlanta, I went to many shops inquiring about apprenticeships. Unfortunately, not one was willing to help me start. I had to move back home, but I didn’t give up on trying to find an apprenticeship. All of the rejection sparked an instant fire and made me want to do it even more. The first tattoo shop I went to in Louisiana helped me jumpstart my career. I learned rather quickly and completed my apprenticeship faster than I would have ever expected. I fell in love the first time I used my coil machine and knew that I wanted to continue in this industry; even though it is male-dominated, I knew that I had a place here. It took me five years to get back to Atlanta, but patience taught me that whatever is meant for you does not have an expiration date. I also learned that remaining passionate, persistent and consistent in all that you desire will lead you right where you need to be.

A little over a year ago, I officially begin my journey as a tattoo artist here in Atlanta. The tattoo parlor I work at today was one of the few I fell in love with five years ago. Even though I did not get the opportunity then, I kept working and knocking until I eventually earned a guest spot. I moved in my booth exactly one year after I began traveling from Louisiana to work as a guest artist. Not once during my time at Studio 219 did I feel out of place. It’s like being in a classroom because I’m constantly learning and growing with the people that I work with. No one is competing or trying to tear another artist down. We are all working to help build one another and see ourselves at the top. The atmosphere and energy filling the place is unmatched.

Has it been a smooth road?
This journey has not been easy at all. I was a little afraid to ask for an apprenticeship when I first moved back home. I hesitated and nearly gave up on pursuing this career after receiving so many no’s because I couldn’t see a yes coming. I didn’t have the approval I wanted from my dad or most of my family. I was mostly judged for choosing to pursue and build a career as a tattoo artist. So many times during my short journey, I’ve been told what I couldn’t, wouldn’t and what was impossible for me to do. No matter how many times I’m discouraged, I won’t quit because I truly believe this is my calling. Art is my escape when I feel empty and have nothing else to express. Even though I was judged by many, I’ve always had the support of my siblings and closest friends. Being a young black female in a white, male-dominated industry can be very tough. There’s not much room for the weak. I had a lot to learn in regard to dealing with the public and knowing my place as an artist. When allowed, people walk all over you and take advantage of your service. It took me a while to build confidence and stand firm in my place. I struggled with using my voice at times, but today I feel more confident than ever; and I am ready to push forward to reach my peak as an artist.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Lynk Art story. Tell us more about it.
Lynk Art is a creative experience for all who join me to take part in infinite art. Not only am I a tattoo artist, but I also paint, create henna and from time to time I do graphic design as well. I’ve always wanted to leave my mark in as many places as possible for the sake of spreading my love and art as far as it could reach. I dream of this brand being an international legacy. It doesn’t matter what materials are being used and what serves as a canvas. Whatever joins in to help create something new is LYNK ART!

How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Hopefully there will be twice as many black females rising in the tattoo industry! I foresee me working to place the spotlight on young female artists and their lifestyles. It’s always good to see others, like myself, thriving. In the next several years, I plan to have Lynk Art Studios, interactive galleries and live magazines across the nation.

Contact Info:

• Address: 1900 Piedmont Rd NE
  Atlanta, GA 30324
• Website: www.studio219ink.com
• Phone: 985.590.9258
• Email: letslynkup@gmail.com
• Instagram: @lyn_saj
• Facebook: Jaslyn Tate

Image Credit:
Jamie Washington

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