Today we’d like to introduce you to Rolando Nava.
Hi Rolando, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started tattooing at the very young age of 14. Back in the day, it was hard to get into the profession nearly impossible; self-taught was the only way to go. Definitely one of the hardest things to do since no one is willing to help, but I pushed through by telling myself I wasn’t a quitter and here we are today. One thing I always advise people, not only in the tattoo industry but in any industry is that practice makes perfection. If you want something really bad you will have to put in the work in order to make it happen.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting off it was really tough, from learning on my close friends and making a lot of errors. Practice does make perfection in anything that you do. So I tell everyone to stay focused and stay motivated. When I started tattooing as a kid, I didn’t even know how to turn on a tattoo machine just by that example you can only imagine how difficult it was. I would draw a lot back then and practice late nights on my friends. I was clearly screwing them up but with hopes of one day getting better and becoming someone.
We’ve been impressed with Nava Studios, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m proud of the business I have created alongside with my younger brother. The name Nava Studios came from him as a child telling me he wanted to have a business with our name. So we made it happen, I run the tattoo business part of it and my brother Tony runs the photography. Day by day, I work on how to improve my craft, I specialize in black and grey and with time a lot of people started seeking me for cover-ups. I believe what sets us aside from everyone else is definitely our attitude, everyone that comes in we make sure to treat like family. I’m blessed and thankful for the team I have created and everything I have learned from them. When you come to Nava studios we will make sure to treat you right at home, you will be walking into a welcoming establishment, clean and professional. We want everyone to know that we do our absolute best to ensure everyone leaves happy and receives the best quality service that we can provide.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I’m very thankful for my parents because without their mentality, I would never be the person I am today. I have an uncle and an aunt ( B and Chulo) they are like my 2nd parents, they have been there for me since I was a baby. They are my fire and my reason to want so much more in life. One thing I can tell everyone is definitely find that fire in you to push you to want more like how my uncle and aunt push me. Also, I have to thank my brother Tony for the fact that he came up with the idea of the business name and he is someone I can always count on. What would I be with no team so I have to shout out my entire team. I have another guy that’s been my brother since day 1 by the name of Fortino, this guy here man is something serious he will motivate anyone and help anyone in this world. There were times where I just needed an extra boost and he without fail was there for me. He’s been what you call your ride or die partner, we have gone through the ugliest times to the best times so we always make sure to take care of each other. Iris my manager/piercer/that annoying sister that people don’t want, she plays a tremendous factor in this business and with her personality, we wouldn’t be anywhere. I came across this crazy guy when I first started some big tall white dude fresh college graduate, we ended up being real good buddies and he ended up joining our team and helping us take Nava Studios to another level. My newest addition is my man Rafa such a great talented man, this dude’s mind is everywhere and can create some crazy designs, so at times he helps us all to create a unique piece for our customers. One great thing about him is his character such a great guy with a great attitude. I wouldn’t be anywhere without this group that I get to call family. Thank you all for pushing and inspiring me and everyone around me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://navastudios.wixsite.com/tattoosnphotography
- Instagram: @navastudios_
- Facebook: Nava Studio
