Meet Jeff Maronilla-Seva Quintano

We were lucky to catch up with Jeff Maronilla-Seva Quintano recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jeff, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
This year 2023 marks my 10th year in tattooing. I was fortunate that even in the beginning I was already doing the tattoos I like which are my own designs. It was great and fun but after a while I felt like there should be more to it, that the designs should have more weight.

In 2018 I moved to the US and saw how much the Filipino American community values their roots and culture. They inspired me to learn more and do my own research and that is when I realized that they are the community that I want to serve. That is when I found my purpose, to create designs and tattoos that are for the people who share the same love and appreciation for the Philippines as I do.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My advocacy is to promote one of the ancient writing systems of the Philippines (Baybayin) through tattoos. In 2021 I released a workbook about Baybayin. The goal for this project is to share the knowledge to other tattooers and have more people contribute in spreading awareness about a writing system that was almost lost and forgotten due to colonization.
What’s exciting about it is that the project is getting traction and it is generating desire for the younger generation to learn about it and proudly wear it on their skin. It’s great because it shows that our culture and traditions are being appreciated and that the efforts of the educators and researchers who came before me are starting to come into fruition.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
First I’d say is believing in oneself. It all starts within you. It is important to have faith in yourself and have a clear vision in your head.

Second is courage. Having the courage to take risks, take action and do your part is what will turn our ideas to reality.

Third is being optimistic. Being optimistic helps us appreciate what we have and what we learned from any circumstances. It connects us to a positive frequency which will bring good things that can help us.

There will be days when you will feel down and that’s ok. Try your best the next day and get back at it.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
There are a lot of teachers in my life. All of them shared a great deal of knowledge and lessons which I am forever grateful for. They are all my biggest inspiration, but the most helpful is myself. I say this because I’m also my biggest and worst enemy and I fight this battle everyday. Thank you to all my mentors who equipped me and taught me not to give up.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Profile photo by KAYLIN MITSUMORI @kay.shootz

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