Meet Journy Skaggs of Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Journy Skaggs

Journy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my journey as a local art educator in Phoenix. I was passionate about inspiring others, though I often lost track of my own creative direction. During a personal trip to LA, I met an aspiring tattoo artist who sparked my interest in tattooing. A few years later, we reconnected during COVID and after getting tattooed by them in Denver, I realized I wanted to pursue tattooing myself. Back in Phoenix, I reached out to local artists, and one of them introduced me to their shop owner, who eventually through persistence, offered me an apprenticeship.

The road to where I am today wasn’t easy; it took years of hard work, dedication, and constant growth as an artist. I worked tirelessly during my apprenticeship, honing my craft and embracing a constantly evolving style. I’ve learned as much from my peers and mentors as I have from my own experiences, and their support has been crucial in my success. While I’ve made strides, I’m still discovering new facets of what it means to be an artist every day.

Alright, 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?
The road to becoming a tattoo artist wasn’t smooth whatsoever. Along the way, I faced rejection, isolation, constant disappointment, and ongoing imposter syndrome. The latter is a challenge I still face everyday; Just when you think you’ve succeeded, you’re reminded that there are always others ahead of you, making it hard emotionally and mentally some days to keep up in such a competitive field. However, despite the struggles, they’ve driven me to keep improving, pushing, and getting back up everyday to be better. It’s not always easy, but I’m grateful for the lessons they bring, especially when I look back and see how far I’ve come.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a tattoo artist specializing in color and illustration, but I’m probably more known for being a dork. I don’t take much pride in my work as I have a hard time recognizing where I excel, but I would say that I’m proud that I’m always wanting to be better. No tattoo I’ve done feels perfect, and while there are some I feel successful with, I see each tattoo as part of my growth and im thankful for each one, and each person, that has allowed me the chance to learn.

I think the thing that sets me apart from others is that I’m just as grateful to tattoo you as you are to be tattooed by me, and your story is an important part of my life as I get to share a space and point in time with you. No matter the design or size, I’m just thankful to experience that moment of tattooing with the client. After the ice is broken, of course, because I get just as nervous meeting you as I’m sure you do with me, too. Haha

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The most important qualities to my success so far have been being receptive to criticism, practicing self-compassion, and staying open-minded to the outcomes.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perplexedivisions