In Conversation With: Tattoo artist explains her link to ink
Tanya Viala is a tattoo artist at Skellys Web Tattoo Studio in Kelowna, where she runs her business, Mermaid Tattoos. Viala is from Stoke-on-Trent in the United Kingdom. She now lives in Kelowna with her husband, who is from Prince Albert, Sask. She recently spoke with Daily Courier reporter Andrea Peacock about her love of tattooing, her own tattoos and how to prepare for your first tattoo.
How did Mermaid Tattoos get its name?
I’m certain I was a mermaid in a previous life and have loved Little Mermaid from being a kid. I actually recently met the Little Mermaid at Disney and it was quite the experience — maybe borderline embarrassing, but a dream come true for me. To me, mermaids signify the ocean, which is never ending and undiscovered. The name Mermaid Tattoos came about to signify growth and never-ending depths for my creative nature. What was your first tattoo? That takes me back to being a reckless 16year-old who thought that star tattoos were unique. Is there a story behind it? Honestly, there’s a story behind all my tattoos. For me, it’s an experience and a way to document life changes. But for the stars, I wanted one for each member of my family. It’s now covered up and I’ve adapted it into a larger piece, but that’s where my flames were fanned. How many tattoos do you have now? I have no idea; I lost count and always forget because they are just a part of me now. Which is your favourite? I have a bearded lady on my leg for my nana and a traditional portrait of Dorothy from Wizard of Oz for my love of that film. Those are my favourite ones so far.
Why did you decide to become a tattoo artist?
As a child, I was really creative — I still am. I would draw on my arms, and all my Barbies had cut hair that I would colour in and I drew all over them. I always loved body modification and obsessed over tattooed pop stars. All through high school and beyond, I wanted to become an artist.
I decided to pursue my dream because I knew it was what I was meant to do: to create and make art for others. It was by no means an easy road to get here and to have this job. Sacrifices have been made, but I don’t regret a thing. I love my job; it’s the best job in the world.
What do you enjoy about tattooing? I enjoy the whole process, from getting an idea, drawing up the idea and especially getting it onto the person. I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. I enjoy the freedom to create that tattooing brings me.
Any tips for someone going for their first tattoo?
Always check your potential artist’s work beforehand. Just because someone is cheap doesn’t mean they are good at their job. It’s so important to scope out the artist you want — check their portfolio, style and prices.
And it’s important to meet them to get a feel for them as a person. A tattoo can be a personal experience, and you want to have it with the right person in the right, safe and clean environment. Who is your favourite artist? Right now, I am obsessed with Kelly (Violence) Violet from London, Susanne Suflanda Konig from Manchester, Fredao Oliveira from Brazil and Mike Love, a tattooer from Leicester.