Meet Daphne Love | Tattoo Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Daphne Love and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Daphne, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve known since I was really young that I’d end up doing something creative. I honestly can’t remember a time when I wasn’t making something, whether it was drawing, painting, sketching fashion designs, or even baking. I found my way to tattooing after my mom’s tattoo artists left a special impression on me. She used to bring me with her to appointments, and the tattoo artists were always so kind and welcoming. Even as a 7-year-old, they’d put stencils on me and make me feel like the coolest kid in the world.

By the time I was in middle school, I had my heart set on becoming a tattoo artist. My walls were covered in tattoo magazine pages, and my hands were always stained with pencil or paint. I was lucky to get my first tattoo apprenticeship at 17 and start college for art on a full-ride scholarship at 18.

Creativity has been like a best friend, something that’s been with me through every season of life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
While tattooing is my main focus, I consider myself an artist in almost every area of my life. During my time pursuing a degree in art, I was able to study painting, drawing, ceramics, sculpture, photography, and more. That wide range of experience really shaped the way I approach tattooing and sets me apart from many artists in the industry. I pull influence from all kinds of mediums, and I think that shows in the versatility and depth of my work.

Today, at 27, I’ve been in the tattoo industry for over nine years, including my apprenticeship. I own my second private studio, have tattooed across the country, earned a bachelor’s degree in studio art, and was honored to receive an award for my work at the LA Body Art Expo. Even with all of that, I don’t feel anywhere near finished. I’m just getting started. I have ideas and ambitions bursting from the seams.

One of the things I value most is the relationship I’ve built with my clients. Many of them have been with me since the very beginning, and they’ve grown into true friends over the years. I care deeply about creating a comfortable and safe space for the people who trust me with their skin, and I want that to be at the heart of my brand. It feels almost poetic that my real last name, and my brand identity, is Love.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had a friend visiting Southern California, I’d make it my mission to give them a taste of every landscape this area has to offer. We’d start out in the desert. We’d probably be spending a day thrifting and checking out the crystal shops in Joshua Tree. One of my favorite places, it’s unique and magical, a perfect place for a little creative reset.

From there, we’d definitely head to the beach. Sunbathing and listening to the waves is non-negotiable. I love Laguna Beach and Crystal Cove, but Venice Beach would also be an iconic place to go get a little tattoo.

We’d also spend time in the city, of course. I’d take them to Grand Central Market for some amazing food, and we’d hit a few of the art museums around LA. If it’s baseball season, catching a Dodger game is a must.

And finally, we’d get out into nature again with a good hike. Something local, like in the Angeles National Forest, or maybe the classic Hollywood Sign trail. As someone who’s grown up in Los Angeles my whole life, I’ve always found the variety in local landscapes to be the most unique and valuable part of living here.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to the Guardian Scholars Program at Cal State Fullerton. I was incredibly honored to receive a full cost of attendance scholarship from them as a senior in high school. The program supports current and former foster youth who have excelled academically and want to pursue higher education.

At the time, I had no idea just how much of a blessing it would become. After going through the interview process and being accepted, I realized how truly life changing the opportunity was. Guardian Scholars didn’t just cover my tuition, they helped with my cost of living, offered amazing volunteer and networking opportunities, and created a space to advocate for other foster youth through legislation and education. They also introduced me to some of the most important people in my life.

Because of this program, I was able to fully commit to almost two years of an unpaid tattoo apprenticeship while earning my bachelor’s degree in studio art. I owe so much of my growth and success to their support.

Website: https://www.daphnelovetattoo.com/

Instagram: @daphnelovetattoo

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphne-love-318b91116?trk=people-guest_people_search-card

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TattooedWithLove

Other: TikTok: @daphnelovetattoo