Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kiko Kawai. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Kiko, appreciate you sitting with us today. Maybe we can start with a topic that we care deeply about because it’s something we’ve found really sets folks apart and can make all the difference in whether someone reaches their goals. Self discipline seems to have an outsized impact on how someone’s life plays out and so we’d love to hear about how you developed yours?
My self discipline comes from the acceptance that I will always be improving and growing. It’s easy to be discouraged when you are an artist for your career, but what drives me is telling myself that every “failure” is a step in the right direction. Experts at their craft aren’t just born that way. You have to put in the work and effort to become great at something.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a tattoo artist whose goal is to create a space where any person, regardless of their background, race, sexuality, or gender expression can feel safe and excited about receiving a tattoo. When you get a tattoo from me, I want to prioritize not only your artwork, but your experience and comfort with me while we are in the studio. This is why I love being a tattooer. Because getting a tattoo can be a healing and therapeutic experience, one which I feel everyone deserves to enjoy! I love getting to share that joy with people, and being able to make cool artwork for a living is an obvious bonus.
Right now I feel inspired by graffiti, comic books, screen prints, and pop art, and have been experimenting with a style that mixes blackwork, linework, and trash polka influences. I am also excited to say that I am expanding my business and have begun selling prints of my artwork, as well as t-shirts and stickers of my tattoo designs.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
There’s a saying that my spouse and I like to use when describing our work ethic and careers. “Stay humble, hungry, and proactive.” My advice to anyone on their journey to improvement is just that.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My dad taught me to be kind, open minded, and compassionate. My mom taught me to be thoughtful, confident, and resilient. My parents inspire me to be my best self, and I’m so grateful for their support and examples.
Contact Info:
- Website: kawaitattoo.com
- Instagram: @_kawaitattoo
- Facebook: Kiko Kawai
