Meet Kane Navasard | Artist

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

Hi Kane, what role has risk played in your life or career?
No risk, no reward. It’s as simple as that. You can’t be afraid to fail. There are plenty of lessons to be learned when you make mistakes along the journey. Some time ago, I took a leap of faith and opened a private tattoo studio in Los Angeles after working at a shop in Orange County. I had poured all of my savings into opening the studio, unaware if it was going to work out. I was engulfed in anxiety as I wondered if my clients would follow, if I’d be able to stay on top of my bills, and whether I could sustain this long-term. I was in too deep already, and was determined to succeed. The whole situation was a gamble, but it became the best decision I’ve ever made. I learned that you have to live a little dangerously if you want a better life. If there’s something that rattles you, you have to overcome that fear and fight that resistance head on. Every time I feel like I’m in my comfort zone, I panic a bit. For me, it’s an indicator that I need some type of change to keep my business fresh and interesting. I would’ve had so many missed opportunities if I didn’t take any initiative on uncertain outcomes. Greatness won’t come to you if you don’t roll the dice.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I specialize in single needle tattooing. This is the use of only one needle to tattoo skin with great precision. There’s an undeniable charm within LA’s street culture that I strive to capture and convey in each piece of art I create. Being authentic was vital to my brand. As an artist, I have a strong belief in originality, and always strive to bring new ideas to the table. I tend to admire style over technique, as this is what will set yourself apart from the crowd. It’s an accomplishing feeling knowing you came up with a concept that no one else has done before.

Maintaining good habits has been beneficial to my craft. I believe you have to have a blueprint of what you’re trying to achieve, the knowledge to execute the vision, and the determination to follow through and finish. A wise man once told me that people want the muscle, but they don’t want to push weight. Taking a shortcut won’t give you longevity. Take your time, and do everything with passion. You have to be disciplined and focused if you’re trying to transform your idea of success to reality.

There were plenty of obstacles along the way in my journey. You just can’t make excuses for yourself. Take a risk. I opened up For The Sinners Tattoo in March 2020, and Covid-19 hit two weeks later. I kept my poker face on, and was still creating art during the shutdown. All the uncomfortable situations will soon seem trivial if you stay disciplined.

The company you keep can either help you, or drag you down. Be sure to have a strong core of individuals that have the same goals as you.

I attended a Catholic school for some time. In this environment, I was exposed to the belief that everyone is born a sinner. I observed the negative perception often associated with people who have tattoos, especially those with the single needle black and grey style. This style, historically linked to prison artwork, held a certain stigma. My desire was to elevate this form of tattooing, making it aesthetically pleasing to a wider audience. ‘For The Sinners’ is my way of expressing that this art is for everyone.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the food at Mario’s Peruvian on Melrose. The lomo saltado dish there is a must, along with everything else on their menu. If we’re not too full, then we’re off to Mateo’s Ice Cream in Mid-City. This place is a no-brainer when it comes to having the best ice cream in town. The weather is usually beautiful in LA, so I’d take a ride to Venice Beach. A walk along the boardwalk could be crazy, but I like being immersed in that atmosphere. For a more chill experience, I’d have to say The Last Bookstore in Downtown LA is great spot to relax and find an interesting book. Lastly, I’d end the trip at my tattoo shop For The Sinners. Getting tattooed is therapeutic for people, and I love tattooing friends. We’ll put on some oldies, hang out, and put that needle to skin. I treat the shop as if it’s my temple, and I always enjoy sharing the space with the people I care about.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe my success to my mom, a single parent who embodies the resilience of a true role model. She took on the responsibilities of both a mother and father, demonstrating that with hard work that a good life is possible. Her independence and toughness are qualities I admire and respect deeply. As an artist myself, I have her to thank for instilling in me a strong foundation in art from a young age. I remember the time she spent with me in our garden, teaching me the fundamentals of drawing nature. To this day, every time I tattoo a rose on someone, I recall her guidance and lessons she taught me. She’s been technologically savvy, and always reposts my artwork on Facebook. Her influence has been a strong impact on my life, and I’m forever grateful for her.

Website: https://www.forthesinners.com

Instagram: @kanenavasard

Other: shop instagram: @forthesinners

Image Credits
Rosie Matheson, Gabriel Maldonado, Dat Nguyen