Today we’d like to introduce you to Xavier Ayers.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2018, I moved to Albuquerque, NM, with the dream of becoming a full-time artist. Making a move with no real plan or landing pad. Just a dream.
I went from shop to shop, literally almost every shop in the city searching for a desk job or apprenticeship. Each time with the same result. NO. Eventually, this really beat down on my confidence in even pursuing my dream. Maybe tattooing just wasn’t for me.
When tattooing found me, I was lost with no sense of direction or purpose. I was in a bad place in my life. Sleeping in my car, using my gym membership to shower, you name it. I had no type of consistent income, just odd jobs here or there. But with Divine Timing, I met my purpose. Finally, I was able to land the opportunity to hang around a shop. Brian Maes and David Luna, owners of Culture Ink, opened their doors to me.
I wasn’t offered an apprenticeship right away. I hung around the shop for about three months before anything official was set in stone. Earning trust! There were times when the only time I would eat is when the guys would have me pick up lunch and buy me something as well. This point of my life is what pushed me to this point.
I eventually went on to graduate my apprenticeship in 2021. It was a long journey but so worth it. Rebel Muse gave me the awesome opportunity to become a resident artist, and I couldn’t be more thankful. Being in this environment pushes me each and every day. I couldn’t ask to be in a better place.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Struggles have been a huge part of my journey as an artist. There have been ups and down along the way. Sleepless nights, working 12/13-hour shifts, not being able to afford certain things. They are definitely struggles that made me a stronger person, and I am thankful for each and every one.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Fineline, Black and grey tattoo artist! I am most well-known for fineline tattoos as well as black and grey geometrical realism. With that being said, I am so young in my career! I have the interest in trying all different styles and pushing myself artistically.
The most important part my career is making people smile. That is what I am most proud of. Every single day I have the opportunity to make a positive impact on my clients, and that is what I am most proud of. I am thankful for the trust.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I am a huge Andy Frisella fan. That is probably the number one podcast that I listen to. As I am doing this interview, I am actually on my 23rd day of the 75 Hard programs. Some of my favorite books include Think and Grow Rich, The four Agreements, and Rich Dad Poor Dad.
I am a huge fan of self-improvement. Pushing myself with discipline and mental toughness plays a huge role in my success tattooing.
Pricing:
- $200/ Hour
- $1200 Day Rate
- $200 Deposit
Contact Info:
- Email: inkedbyx@gmail.com
- Instagram: @inkedbyx_
Image Credits
Samantha Loper
