Rising Stars: Meet Mandy Hazell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandy Hazell. 

Hi Mandy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Art has always been a constant in my life. Some of my earliest memories are of drawing, coloring, or creating something. That continued all through grade school and into college where I was majoring in art. I began with graphite and charcoal and eventually found acrylic painting, which is my go-to art medium when I am not tattooing. Around 2008 I got a job at Bound By Design Tattoo and Piercing working the counter. Although I had already been getting tattooed for years prior, that was really the defining moment that opened the door for me into the tattoo industry. After several years of working counter, I was lucky enough to become an apprentice under Travis Koenig. I could not have asked for a more well-rounded, patient, and talented mentor. I spent the next 8 years strengthening my craft and building my clientele. This last year I was offered a spot at Little Black Church owned by my friend and longtime Denver tattooer, Fish. While it was bittersweet to leave where I was first welcomed into this industry nearly 14 years ago, I needed to step outside of my comfort zone and push myself as an artist. In March it will be a year at LBC. I can’t say enough about how rad it has been to work with the crew there, in such a beautiful shop, and how much I have personally seen my art strengthen and grow. I can’t wait to see what this next year brings! 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I have always been my worst critic, especially when it comes to my art. I’d imagine anyone who is a creative has experienced that feeling. I think initially my biggest struggles were believing I was talented enough to work alongside the artists in my shop and in the Denver community, and if I would be able to support myself on my art alone. Luckily, I have had an amazing support group around me of artists, friends, family, and especially clientele. It didn’t take long for me to see this was exactly where I needed to be. Being a female in a heavily male-dominated industry also comes with its challenges as well. While I am very grateful to have worked in very respectful and fun shops, I have had my interactions with some not so respectful individuals. Have I had men, tattooer or not, question my artistic ability based on my gender? Yes. Have I had men, tattooer or not, imply my clientele or success is based off my gender? Yes. Has that hindered me in when it comes to my art and the work I produce? Nope. If anything, it has pushed me harder. I think being an artist requires a certain level of ego and humility and I do my best to keep that balanced. I know I am lucky to have a place in this industry and not a day goes by that I don’t appreciate being a part of it. That includes the all the struggles along the way. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My style of tattooing can best be described as if Tim Burton and Lisa Frank had a baby. The right mix of spooky and adorable. I consider myself a pretty versatile artist but there are certain ideas or themes that I definitely favor. I love bold lines and bright colors. I love retro or vintage themes. I will never tire of tattooing flowers. I get a kick out of tattooing food. Whimsical pet portraits are a blast. I really enjoy incorporating what I call “glitter dots” into my tattoos, that can create the illusion of sparkles. Ultimately, I love making tattoos that make people smile or laugh. I love seeing my clients’ face when they see the completed piece, knowing I captured their idea. I don’t know if I’d say this sets me apart, but I feel like I am a very personable and empathetic tattooer. I pride myself on my bedside manner. Getting tattooed in and of itself already puts you in a vulnerable state. It is very important to me that my client feels comfortable and in a safe place, mentally and physically, while I tattoo them. 

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Besides my interest in art, growing up I enjoyed playing volleyball, listening to music, and going to punk shows and hardcore shows. I am Straight Edge and vegan so those aspects have shaped a lot of my values growing up and who I am today. I love interior design. It was actually a potential career path I was looking into prior to tattooing. I have a big love for Mid Century and kitschy esthetic. I have always surrounded myself with lots of color, so it’s no surprise that has found its way into my art and tattoos. 

Pricing:

• $180/hr

Contact Info:

• Email: mandypantstattoos@gmail.com
• Instagram: @mandypantstattoos
• Other: @thelittleblackchurch