Today we’d like to introduce you to Nychelle Elise.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Nychelle. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up I always would draw. I would make my own still life set ups and work on them for hours. I would draw all over my body growing up, I had a folder of “future” tattoos.
I was painting and doing different events in Dallas prior to becoming a tattoo artist. While getting my BFA in visual art a shop contacted me and said I had great work and offered me an apprenticeship.
Almost 5 years later I am the only Black Female tattooist in the city of Frisco. I am a member of the Ladies of Ink Tour. When I am not tattooing I am painting or planning my next Urban Chatter exhibition.
Curating and producing these shows are extremely fulfilling and rewarding. Curating in itself is an art form I am mastering at the moment, along with tattooing and painting.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My road has not been smooth. My painting career was a bit smoother than my tattooing and curating endeavors.
Being a black female tattooist is very uncommon in the industry, thus making my journey a bit tougher. I’ve dealt with many people doubting me, refusing to get tattooed by me because I was a woman, a black woman. I had to take that and use it as fuel. Which is why I joined the Ladies of Ink Tour. Our greatness is undeniable, a group of black woman killing the tattoo game is something you don’t see often.
As a curator I have had older curators attempt to shut down my shows due to jealousy. Some succeeded due to politics but it made me stronger and more aware of my power. I always came back bigger and better.
I am thankful for all of the setbacks, without them I don’t think I would be as successful.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Nychelle Elise Art, Urban Chatter Art Shows – what should we know?
I am known for being a painter first, tattooist 2nd and curator lastly.
I special in mixed media, abstract and figurative artwork.
As a tattooist I am known for my realism and contrast and my skill set when tattooing dark skin. Many come to me for floral pieces.
As a curator I am known for curating shows with some of the best artists and pieces I can find. I specifically search for artist that have something to say to their audience.
I am most proud of the consistency of my company. What sets my artwork apart from other is attention to detail, only creating for a purpose and the ability to maintain a fresh urban aesthetic.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Resilience, the ability to take criticism and apply it to my work. Having confidence in knowing that what is meant for me is for me.
Contact Info:
- Email: nychelleelise@gmail.com
- Instagram: Nychelleeliseart
Image Credit:
Bri Banks (my self portrait)
Third
Rapsody Spirits
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