Conversations with the Inspiring Andrea Liggett

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Liggett.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have been actively practicing art in many mediums as a hobby since developing a passion for creating in early grade school. The pursuit of a formal art degree was considered after completing high school, however, being raised primarily by a single mother, that wasn’t a financial reality. After a decade in a professional corporate position, I sought out a tattoo apprenticeship. There weren’t many female tattooers in Denver in 2006 so I was met with many blank stares if met at all. I was fortunate to find space and a willing mentor at a shop in Aurora, CO where I remained for an additional year and half before moving to West Colfax. I’ve now been at the shop on the corner of Colfax and Perry St for over ten years. As a collective we decided to change the name, rebranded and restructured to create Illustrated Gypsy Tattoo. The studio and myself have continued to thrive in a quickly changing and growing part of Denver. In staying in one shop for so many years, I’ve been constantly inspired by the incredibly talented and diverse individuals I’ve been fortunate to work alongside.

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?
Well, no. I don’t believe the road of life is ever smooth for any of us. Nor do I think that anything worth doing comes easily. In considering the struggles I’ve faced I find there are too many to list and none of them are worth dwelling on. Some of those experiences were life-shattering and others seem now to be trivial enough to have faded into foggy memories. Existence is such a roller coaster ride and I try to embrace the lessons of the struggles with the same attention and appreciation given to the successes. It’s always important to remember to pick your battles. I try to view my chosen career path with the same scope; each tattoo is a journey, a human experience and a rich learning opportunity. No matter your chosen path in life, no matter the struggle, there is growth in experience. Just practice your passions, keep your head down and keep working toward your goals.

What should we know about Illustrated Gypsy Tattoo? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Being a tattooer in an ever changing market I’ve always thought that diversity was very important. Personally, I enjoy many different styles of art and tattoos and try to use variety in design to embrace and combine that influence. Keeping this goal in mind, I haven’t sought a particular style or specialty for myself to adhere to. We are so fortunate to host a wide array of different tattoo styles as a collective studio and I tend to attract individuals seeking bright color illustrative tattoo designs. Using color theory in harmony with an individuals skin tone and proper application in a safe and comfortable environment has always been a driving force in my ability to create dynamic tattoos that will retain their integrity for years to come.

Looking back on your childhood, what experiences do you feel played an important role in shaping the person you grew up to be?
Our successes are measured by our ability to persevere despite adversity. As a woman raised in a domestically violent home I developed a strong will and a fervent ability to stand up for myself. That being said, it’s important to me to remain compassionate and empathetic to the needs of others.

Tattooing is a very intimate experience in many ways. Aside from the trust of letting someone they barely know touch them and create a permanent change to their bodies, our clients often share incredibly personal details of their lives with us. It has always been paramount to remain open and worthy of that position of trust.

Contact Info:

• Address: Illustrated Gypsy
  3939 W Colfax Ave
  Denver, CO 80204
• Website: illustratedgypsy.com
• Instagram: @illustratedandee
• Facebook: Facebook.com/andee.liggett

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