Internationally known pin-up model turned tattoo artist, Kreepy Lourdes, was born in Venezuela, moved to Miami, FL at the age of six and has called the Sunshine State her home ever since. She was getting tattooed before the thought of modeling was even a twinkle in her eye, and through having lots of ink slinging friends, Lourdes became interested in learning the craft, and setting out on the journey towards becoming a tattooist extraordinaire.
Urban Ink: Has it been difficult transitioning between modeling and tattooing? Which do you prioritize?
Kreepy Lourdes: It's been really difficult to choose. The transition came naturally, since I have been able to juggle the two freely. I love them both, but tattooing is definitely where my heart is. It's been my passion for a very long time, and to be lucky enough to get the opportunity to learn isn't something I'm willing to take for granted.
What is the hardest thing you had to learn during your time as an apprentice?
The hardest thing I had to learn was what type of needle went for each tattoo. There are so many details involved.
The 50s, the time period in which the pin-up style photography is based on, was a time when women were subjected to confined roles as child bearers and housewives. What is it about the 50s that attracts you?
It was definitely a time when women were suppressed from their natural desires. Several women displayed their independence from the cookie cutter baby maker role in a more underground fashion. Even tattoos played a large role in that era. Many had them, just didn't show them. Not all women between the 30s and the 50s were housewives with aprons. Many were very in touch with their sexuality and that underground scene is, I think, what draws me to the time period. Breaking that barrier between the innocent housewife and what she can do behind closed doors, bringing out the naughty side and exposing tattoos and curves of a woman gives us tattooed pin-ups such a modern twist.
Has becoming an artist influenced you in what you look for in an artist when you get work done?
Most definitely, I've always been a believer in doing your research and finding an artist who likes and wants to put your idea into a tattoo. You'll get your point across much stronger and have a better turnout if both tattooist and client are on the same page.
Your right arm has a garden-esque theme, and your left arm has more of a luau and tiki theme. Did you set up your tattoos like that for the sake of continuity and aesthetics or do you these themes have special meaning to you?
I never really planned any specific theme. I have such a variety of things all over; I could never decide what I wanted to go for. They just fell into place and started filling up the empty spaces by people I've worked with in the past.
In reference to the female boxer on your stomach, what is the significance of that piece?
The boxer girl is probably one of the most painful tattoos I've gotten, but it pretty much means that I'm a fighter. I say what I feel and what I think, even if it stirs trouble. I know I was honest about it and did it my way.
Do you have a favorite artist?
There are so many great artists out there. One of my ultimate favorites has to be Jose Carrera. He recently passed away and was such an influence and mentor. I hope to someday get a little something done by all tattooists I admire.
You like painting Day of the Dead Virgins. What draws you to it?
Well, the thought of people having one of my statues to add to their altars, or just as a great piece of artwork, is very spiritual and rewarding to me. Dia de los Muertos is such a highly celebrated holiday in the Hispanic community. It's great to know that so many like my Virgins and appreciate the day as much as I do. They are definitely symbolic. Being Latina and growing up in a tight-knit household, taking a day to celebrate and honor the passing of our loved ones means a lot to me.
No comments:
Post a Comment