Meet Jayna Won: Tattooer

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

Hi Jayna, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued art because I always knew that if I wanted to be happy, whatever I did for work had to be a passion of mine. Creating art has always been the thing that has centered me and helped me express myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I practice hand poking. This was not that big amongst people my age when I started, however now it’s become more of a common practice and more sought after. I actually find that my values align more with other artists than I thought the deeper I get into the community. I am most proud of the development of Angel Kisses Studio and how much love and intention went into it. It took many years if struggling and inconsistencies in my client flow to get where I am. I also learned a lot from my peers and they inspired me to continue to work even when it was hard. It was absolutely not easy and really challenging building myself up to the point of being able to live off my art but it was worth it. I overcame everything through the support of those around me. If at any point I was having a hard time, the people I tattooed around lifting me back up whether that be through their art or their words. I learned that success is measured by your standards and not the standards of others. My journey into this was an accidental one and my live for this practice is one that is fueled by creating art that connects with whoever chooses me as their tattooer. It’s all about connection.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was to visit la, I’m not sure I’d take her around because she’s from here and the weekend would probably be us doing face masks drinking wine and watching early 2000s comedies. However if I was to take her on vacation I would take her to Joshua tree for the weekend. Some fun places I’d show someone from out of town are the Long Beach flea market, the beach, probably take them hiking, and I do love the local bars here so I’d probably get them drunk at some point. Since were in quarantine I’d probably also try to catch a drive in movie cause those are super cute.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Oh yes, I always have to shout out my father for being my biggest inspiration. He always taught me that I could do anything I wanted to and showed me by example what it is to be an artist. I grew up going to his work after school and just making art in his office hanging out with his employees. He also taught me how valuable ambition is if this is what you want to do, so any sort of sustainability in my life is due to the values he instilled in me.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaynawon/?hl=en

Image Credits
Photos by Jay will, Paris helena, and jayna won