We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gabrielle Walberg. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gabrielle below.
Gabrielle, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I have been doodling in notebooks… coloring, and drawing on every surface available (and some that weren’t) since I could hold a pencil. I remember illustrating books, filling notepad after notepad, and making all my Christmas gifts for loved ones. Some of those gifts still are hung up on walls or on shelves today. I fell out of drawing and creating twice in my life. Once in my teens, rekindled by my incredible art teacher and neighbor Mrs. Nelson, who encouraged me enough that I decided to pursue an art degree despite my family’s hesitation and concern. And again, in my late 20s, I realized it had been years since I last created anything. Motherhood, relationships, and work had taken priority.
I don’t know if there was an “aha” moment where I started building my portfolio, I just made it a point to draw again and one day decided I was finally going to do it. I put together a collection of works and reached out to a few shops in town, scoring an apprenticeship. I still remember my first couple tattoos I did, mostly on friends and family. I remember dancing in the hallway after my client left, knowing I found the thing I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
Two things have always been very important to me. Art/creativity and making people feel good about themselves. Finding a way to merge those together, has been the ultimate dream for a career.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a second-year illustrative tattoo artist and a newly established shop owner!
I recently opened my own studio, “The Crow’s Nest Tattoo LLC.” Currently, I’m the sole artist, and I plan to spend the next couple of years honing my skills and refining my style. One day, I aspire to expand and provide aspiring artists with the opportunity to learn, discover their unique styles, and become exceptional tattooists.
I certainly didn’t expect to find myself on my own so soon, but I know it was the right choice for me. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind as I work to ensure everything runs smoothly in my new shop.
A key contributor to my success has been the close relationship I cultivate with my clients. Open communication about their tattoo ideas is essential. I’ve heard countless horror stories of tattoo artists who fail to listen, sometimes belittling or disregarding their clients’ requests.
While it’s my art, it’s also their vision and their body. It’s imperative that we work together to achieve an outcome we are both thrilled with. Most of the time, I find myself just as excited as my clients about their tattoos. I can’t wait to witness the confidence and joy that comes from their new body art.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Setting Boundaries and Learning to Say No:
This is a lesson I wish I had embraced much sooner, though I like to think I figured it out faster than some artists. Remember, you are only one person. It’s in your best interest—and that of your clients—to focus on the projects that bring you the most joy and enhance your skills. It’s perfectly okay to decline certain tattoo requests. Be open with your clients about the types of projects you’re excited to take on. You might be surprised at how many are willing to grant you the creative freedom to work your magic when you share your reasoning.
2. Stay True to Yourself: You Are Unique, and No One Can Take That Away:
In a world filled with incredible artists, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of comparison, thinking, “I wish I could do that. I’ll never be as good as them.” You’re right; you won’t be—because you are not them. You are uniquely you. Your journey is about becoming the best version of yourself. Commit to learning and growing every day, striving to improve upon who you were yesterday. Instead of measuring yourself against an ideal that will always elude you, concentrate on refining your skills and developing your own distinctive style.
3. Use Your Resources:
Why do we often find it so difficult to ask for help? One important lesson I’ve learned is that while it’s vital to be independent and capable of doing things on your own, it’s equally essential to accept assistance and seek advice when you’re uncertain—or even when you’re not. Whether it’s from organizations like the North Dakota Women’s Business Center, an incredible resource for any woman contemplating starting a business in North Dakota, or simply from friends, reaching out and learning is invaluable. This principle extends to conventions and seminars as well. Embrace the knowledge and support available to you; it can make a world of difference.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
An ideal client for me possesses strong communication skills and a clear, concise vision for their body art. I find it most helpful when a client provides an overall theme or “feel” for their tattoo—whether that’s soft and feminine, quirky and fun, or creepy and unsettling. Additionally, it’s beneficial to include some must-have subject matter, such as portraits or animals, as well as filler options like florals, foliage, or geometric patterns.
However, the most crucial element is trust. My clients need to trust that I will listen to their ideas and create a design tailored specifically for them—one that transforms into an extraordinary tattoo they can proudly wear for a lifetime.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabie.tattoos/profilecard/?igsh=eDE3eDhlZDN2aGgx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabie.tattoos?mibextid=ZbWKwL
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/thecrowsnest.tattoo?igsh=MTdudDZiMmNiZGUyYQ==
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