Erin Chance: Aotearoa Tattoo Artist Extraordinaire - [Info]

Ever wondered what it takes to transform skin into a canvas, breathing life into vibrant, lasting art? It's the mastery of artists like Erin Chance that makes the world a more colorful place, one tattoo at a time.

From the bustling streets of Auckland, New Zealand, to the vibrant art scene of Richmond, Virginia, Erin Chance has carved a unique path in the world of tattooing. Her journey, spanning over a decade and continents, is a testament to her dedication, skill, and the sheer artistry that defines her work. Erin isn't just a tattoo artist; she's a storyteller, a visual poet, and a self-proclaimed nerd who infuses her creations with a distinctive blend of darkness and color.

Erin's artistic journey began in mid-2006 in Auckland, New Zealand, and quickly expanded across the globe. Her talent and passion have taken her to various studios and conventions, allowing her to hone her skills and connect with fellow artists and enthusiasts. For a time, she found a home in Richmond, Virginia, at Ghost Print Gallery, but the call of her homeland and the allure of new artistic horizons eventually led her back to Aotearoa, where she now works at Thunderhorse Tattoo in Whangarei.

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It's in Whangarei, Aotearoa, where Erin is now creating tattoos that some say are like living paintings. With her profound understanding of color theory, her work captivates viewers with its ability to evoke the feeling of standing in a perpetual state of autumna season filled with haunting beauty.

Beyond her technical skills, Erin's personality shines through in her art. A self-professed nerd, she draws inspiration from gaming, comics, and the wonderfully weird corners of pop culture. This playful side is evident in her tattoos, which often feature whimsical characters, bold colors, and a touch of the macabre. Her tattoos are more than just ink on skin; they're a reflection of her unique worldview, her passions, and her ability to find beauty in the unexpected.

Erin's influence extends beyond her individual work. As a co-founder of Unkindness Art, a collective born in Richmond, Virginia, she helped create a space where artists could collaborate, experiment, and push the boundaries of tattoo art. Unkindness Art, described as "a ravens nest filled with delightfully dark yet colorfully goth creations," quickly gained recognition for its distinctive aesthetic and its commitment to showcasing the work of talented artists from around the world. Alongside artists like Teresa Sharpe and William Volz, Erin contributed to a vibrant and innovative community that left a lasting impact on the tattoo scene.

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The spirit of collaboration and artistic exploration that defined Unkindness Art is a key element of Erin's approach. She believes in the power of shared creativity and the importance of fostering a supportive environment for artists to thrive. This philosophy is evident in her willingness to mentor emerging talents and her active participation in tattoo conventions and workshops, where she shares her knowledge and passion with others.

Its this constant desire to learn and collaborate that makes Erin stand out in an industry often lauded for being competitive and cutthroat. Many artists in the field have expressed that her work ethic is unmatched, and her willingness to mentor up-and-coming artists has earned her the respect of many peers.

Erins return to Aotearoa has been greeted with excitement by the New Zealand tattoo community. Having established herself as a prominent figure on the international stage, she brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the local scene. Her presence at Thunderhorse Tattoo in Whangarei is a testament to her commitment to her roots and her desire to contribute to the growth of tattoo art in her homeland.

Thunderhorse Tattoo, nestled in the heart of Whangarei, provides the perfect backdrop for Erin's artistic endeavors. The studio's atmosphere is one of creativity, collaboration, and a shared passion for the art of tattooing. Here, Erin is free to explore her artistic vision, create stunning custom tattoos for her clients, and continue to push the boundaries of her craft.

The shop itself has a long history of bringing unique tattoo art to Whangarei, Aotearoa, and has become a favorite of locals and visitors to the region. Erins role at the shop isnt just as an artist. She also functions as something of an ambassador for the region, and is eager to see tattoo art thrive in her native home.

But it hasnt always been smooth sailing for Erin. Like all artists, she has faced challenges and setbacks along the way. The life of a traveling tattoo artist can be demanding, requiring long hours, constant travel, and the need to adapt to new environments and cultures. However, Erin has consistently met these challenges with grace, determination, and an unwavering commitment to her art.

Her resilience and adaptability were particularly evident during her time in the United States. Moving to a new country, establishing a business, and navigating a different cultural landscape presented numerous obstacles. Yet, Erin embraced these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, emerging stronger and more confident in her abilities.

And it was that ability to remain calm and produce fantastic work that earned Erin the opportunity to showcase her talents on a larger stage when she competed on season nine of Spike TV's hit reality show, Ink Master. Partnering with fellow Unkindness Art artist Jerrett "Doom Kitten" Querubin, Erin represented her shop and her artistic vision to a national audience. While the competition was fierce, Erin's skills and creativity shone through, earning her recognition as one of the top tattoo artists in the country.

Competing in Ink Master was a challenging experience, but it also provided Erin with invaluable exposure and the opportunity to learn from some of the best artists in the industry. The show's rigorous format pushed her to her limits, forcing her to think on her feet, adapt to new styles, and collaborate with artists from diverse backgrounds. The experience undoubtedly shaped her as an artist and further solidified her reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

It was during the show that fans got a chance to see how Erin balances artistry with entrepreneurship. As a shop owner, she proved herself capable of balancing the books with coming up with designs, and many fans took to social media to express their admiration for her business acumen.

The experience also allowed viewers at home to see the deep connection that Erin shares with her artistic partner, Jerrett Doom Kitten Querubin. The two balanced each other perfectly on Ink Master, with Erin bringing her years of experience in the industry, and Jerrett bringing fresh and exciting designs that the judges loved.

The dynamic duo's performance on Ink Master not only showcased their individual talents but also highlighted the strength of their partnership and the innovative spirit of Unkindness Art. They demonstrated the power of collaboration and the importance of supporting each other's creative vision, a lesson that resonated with viewers and artists alike.

Beyond Ink Master, Erin continues to inspire and influence the tattoo community through her art, her mentorship, and her unwavering passion for her craft. Her commitment to quality, her willingness to experiment, and her genuine love for the art of tattooing have made her a sought-after artist and a respected figure in the industry.

Her master of color theory has earned her admiration throughout the industry. Many peers and fans alike have noted that her expertise transcends technical knowledgeshe has an artist's soul.

One anecdote frequently shared amongst tattoo enthusiasts is the story of a client who, after seeing Erin's work online, flew from across the country specifically to get tattooed by her. The client, who had been searching for the perfect artist to bring their vision to life, was captivated by Erin's unique style and her ability to create tattoos that were both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.

The client's tattoo, a vibrant depiction of a mythical creature, became a testament to Erin's skill and artistry. The tattoo not only exceeded the client's expectations but also served as a powerful symbol of their personal journey and their connection to the natural world. The experience solidified Erin's reputation as an artist who not only possesses technical expertise but also the ability to connect with her clients on a profound level.

Another example of Erin's impact can be seen in the numerous aspiring tattoo artists who have sought her guidance and mentorship. Erin is known for her generosity and her willingness to share her knowledge and experience with those who are just starting out in the industry. She takes the time to critique their work, offer constructive feedback, and provide encouragement and support.

Many of these mentees have gone on to achieve their own success in the tattoo world, crediting Erin with helping them to develop their skills and find their own artistic voice. Her influence extends beyond her individual work, shaping the next generation of tattoo artists and fostering a culture of collaboration and support within the industry.

Her shop has become a hub for artists of all levels of experience to come and share ideas, seek guidance, and find inspiration. Erins commitment to fostering a supportive environment has made her shop a place where artists can thrive and push the boundaries of their craft.

In addition to her work as a tattoo artist, Erin is also an accomplished illustrator. Her illustrations often feature the same themes and motifs as her tattoos, showcasing her love for dark art, gothic imagery, and the beauty of the macabre. Her illustrations have been featured in various publications and galleries, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented artist.

Her success as an illustrator has also allowed her to connect with a wider audience and share her artistic vision with people who may not be familiar with the world of tattooing. Her illustrations often serve as a gateway into her tattoo work, sparking curiosity and inspiring people to explore the art of tattooing for themselves.

Whether she's creating a custom tattoo for a client, mentoring an aspiring artist, or showcasing her illustrations in a gallery, Erin Chance continues to make a significant contribution to the world of art. Her talent, her passion, and her unwavering commitment to her craft have made her a respected figure in the tattoo community and a source of inspiration for artists and art lovers around the world.

Erin is always moving, always creating, and always striving to push the boundaries of her art, and you can find her creating new haunting pieces in Aotearoa to this day.

It's no surprise, then, that those who seek her out often find themselves captivated by her unique ability to translate personal stories and visions into permanent works of art. As one client expressed, "Your tattoo was one that clinched my decision for Ms. Chance to be the next artist on my skin." This sentiment captures the essence of Erin's artistry: a blend of technical skill, creative vision, and a genuine connection with her clients.

And it's not just individual clients who recognize Erin's talent. Her peers in the tattoo industry also hold her in high regard. Teresa Sharpe, another renowned tattoo artist and collaborator, has praised Erin's "mastery of color work" and her ability to create tattoos that are both visually stunning and deeply meaningful. This recognition from fellow artists speaks volumes about Erin's skill and her contribution to the tattoo community.

Erin's impact on the tattoo world extends beyond her individual artistry. As a co-founder of Unkindness Art, she helped create a platform for other artists to showcase their work and connect with a wider audience. Unkindness Art, founded in 2015 and located in Richmond, Virginia, quickly gained a reputation as a "purveyor of high quality, custom tattoos and fine art, apparel & merchandise." The collective's commitment to artistic excellence and its embrace of dark and unconventional themes attracted a diverse clientele and helped to elevate the tattoo scene in Richmond.

This collective spirit is perhaps most vividly illustrated by Erin's participation in the NZ Tattoo Festival. The event, which showcases the best tattoo artists from Aotearoa and beyond, is a celebration of the art form and a testament to the vibrant tattoo community that thrives in New Zealand.

Erin's involvement in the festival is a reflection of her commitment to her roots and her desire to contribute to the growth of tattoo art in her homeland. It's also an opportunity for her to connect with other artists, share her knowledge, and inspire the next generation of tattooers. It's a perfect example of how art can both transcend borders and remain firmly rooted in one's own cultural heritage.

The impact of Erins work can be seen beyond tattoo festivals and ink art galleries, as well. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are now filled with art inspired by her work. The hashtags "#newzealandtattooartist" and "#whangarei" are now directly linked to Erin, and are a testament to her influence on the tattoo world.

Erin's journey is far from over. With her return to Aotearoa and her continued dedication to her craft, she is poised to make even greater contributions to the world of tattoo art. Whether she's creating stunning custom tattoos, mentoring aspiring artists, or showcasing her work in galleries and conventions, Erin Chance will continue to inspire and captivate audiences with her unique vision and her unwavering passion for her art. It's a story etched in ink, a legacy painted on skin, and a testament to the power of creativity to transform both the artist and the world around them.