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

Hi Andrew, how do you think about risk?
I believe in taking risks in life especially if it’s centered around something that you really want to do. The idea of taking a risk is only a thought until you do the unthinkable and take action. The risks I’ve taken has shaped me to who I am today, helped me realize that nothing is impossible, and always be willing to accept positive change. The more you believe in “You” the less fears you have, the more confidence you gain, and you unlock a better version of yourself while promoting positivity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m a professional tattoo artist and my favorite style is realism or realistic imagery. I also enjoy painting and airbrushing from time to time. Although, I enjoy the black and grey style, I also enjoy the challenges of learning colors and applying the knowledge I know to create art. Although I have taught myself a lot about art with the guidance of my Father, I have learned how to apply the knowledge to help me in my journey as an artist. I also have been blessed to be able to meet some incredible shop owners who believed in me and took a chance to help me further my career professionally. The road has definitely not been easy, in fact is has been the most challenging journey I have been on in my life. I’m still overcoming the challenges by whenever I become discouraged I manage to pick my self back up and face the difficulties head on. One lesson I’ve learned is to never stop believing in yourself, challenge yourself every chance you get, and be fearless in what you want. Throughout my life I’ve had numerous of hurdles and they haven’t stopped me from becoming the person I want to be, in fact the obstacles shaped me into who I am today. One thing I’ll leave my readers with is never let someone tell you what you can’t do and be who ever you want to be if it brings happiness to your life in a positive way.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
If a friend/family was visiting Phoenix for the first time I would first bring them to the shop to get tattooed! Haha Although there are a lot of places I like to go, the shop (Lethal INKjection Art) would definitely be the first stop! I like to hang out in Tempe while dining and enjoying music. I also like the Roosevelt Row Arts District where the nightlife is cool and the art murals are amazing. I enjoy dining at Hanny’s, SoSoBa, Filiberto’s and enjoying the nightlife in Scottsdale as well. When I’m not dining, I prefer the simple things in life such as mountain hiking and enjoying the sunrise and sunsets.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank God first and foremost. I want to give a huge shoutout to my wife for always supporting me, being with me every step of the way and consistently cheering for me in whatever I want to do. My mother Coline for showing me throughout her life to take risks and go after what I want. My Father Russell, who was also an artist for constantly cheering for me, and pushing me to take risks in my life as an artist. My Grandmothers and Auntie for instilling the knowledge needed to navigate through life. My family for always sharing my work on social media and being my biggest fans. All my supporters, clients, and all the people who has given me a chance to be creative.

Website: www.artistikaddiction.com
Instagram: artistik_addiction
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFD2bYnfFk8kRtkWsiIACTw