Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Bales.
Michael, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I’ve been an artist since I can remember. From drawing on the walls at my grandmother’s house to attending the University of North Texas and graduating with a degree in Studio Art with a concentration in Watercolor, art has always been a passion. Once I graduated, I was doing graphic design for a small rainwater harvesting company until a tattooer friend of mine introduced me to one of the owners of Rebel Muse Tattoo in Lewisville, Texas and I was able to apprentice under a master of the craft. I’ve been tattooing professionally for about 3 years and I enjoy it very much.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I like to focus on organic, botanical, and geometric work with natural forms. I believe people have a kindred attachment to nature and many of my clients select certain flowers or elements because of an innate connection to their memories or meaningful moments in their lives. Sometimes a tattoo can be a cathartic experience, and sometimes it’s purely because it’s a beautiful accessory and I appreciate the responsibility to complete good artwork in both situations. All of my designs are custom pieces for that specific client, to match their body and flow. Often, they inquire with a general idea and a few specific elements they’re interested in, and then they give me free-range to go from there.
In your view, what is the biggest issue artists have to deal with?
I think the industry is booming, technology is enhancing the ability to create unique and dynamic designs, and clients are expecting better and better work. I feel like the challenge to meet expectations changes per client.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
My Instagram is my primary portfolio, @MichaelBalesArt. I also have a website MichaelBalesAt.com where my watercolors and prints are also available for purchase. I’ve taught watercolor workshops locally and would be interested in expanding that part of my work as well.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1565 West Main Street
ste 419 Lewisville, Texas 75067 - Website: MichaelBalesArt.com
- Phone: 940-420-9666
- Email: michaelbalestattoo@gmail.com
- Instagram: @MichaelBalesArt
- Facebook: Facebook.com/MichaelBalesArt
Image Credit:
All of the artwork and photography are mine.
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