Life and Work with Kate Erso

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Erso.

Kate, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Growing up, my mother was an artist and I followed strongly in her footsteps. Was always fascinated with tattoos but didn’t consider it until my first year of college (2008/2009) in Potsdam, NY; while I was majoring in criminal justice with a minor in fine arts; I stepped into my first tattoo shop. The owner offered me an apprenticeship and I figured why not while I was in college. However, I very quickly fell in love with the art and the atmosphere. Unfortunately, I was never able to complete that apprenticeship and I didn’t find another until I moved to Denver, Colorado in 2013 where I started my apprenticeship at Fortune Cookie Tattoo. After three years of learning and hard work while keeping a paying job to make bills, I finally stepped into full-time Tattooing. Once I got my license, I immediately quit my job and spent my days either tattooing or painting as much as I could. Today I work at one of my favorite shops in Denver; Bound by Design. When I’m not tattooing or painting I like to spend my time with my dogs and partner hiking and doing other physical activities.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There were definitely some obstacles. I had a few people along the way try to discourage me; wear me down and treat me like I could quit at any moment. My mentor was not the best person to get along with and would constantly tell me I had it “easy” because I was female. One of the most eye roll worthy moments is the amount of times I hear; ‘ oh you only got that because you’re a female; or because you have breasts/vagina, etc.” There are a lot of people at shops being surprised when I tell them I’m an artist, not a counter girl. Or another favorite; when they look at my portfolio and say; oh wow you’re actually pretty good! As far as advice; tattooing is challenging, and getting into it is even more so. But challenge is good and if you want it then be willing to keep your head up and do the work; power through it and learn to let all the comments slide off; hell use them as stepping stones to get where you need to be. Tattooing is a growing craft and more and more women are becoming a part of it and that’s great!

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
Primarily, I’m a tattoo artist and I specialize in bold saturated color. I’m known mostly for my color and creative original designs usually consisting of animals, animal hybrids and fun themes, I’m most proud of just being the best artist that I can and providing my clients with not only a good, solid tattoo but also a great experience. I strive for my clients to feel safe and confident in not only my ability; but my cleanliness and my good natured professionalism. I’m not sure what sets me apart from others, but I try to be as original and unique as I can so that my clients can get real creative one of a kind designs.

Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
Absolutely. My mother taught me a lot about being an artist and following your dreams. But she also taught me how to be open and welcoming to new experiences and cultures. I’m very grateful for that because I know how to be open and supportive to all kinds of different cultures and lifestyles and I feel that helps me a lot with having so many diverse clients and ideas. My father taught me how to be strong, determined and hard-working. Because of him, I’m able to power through slow days; make the best of free time and never quit trying to be better than I was every day.,

Contact Info:

• Address: Bound by Design
  1332 East Colfax Ave
• Website: https://boundbydesign.com/kate-erso/
• Email: kfctattoo@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hairofthehound/?hl=en

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