Russell Van Schiack tattoos out of Hart and Huntington at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. Russell feels fortunate to have a career at such a great shop, saying, "I absolutely love that I can do a tattoo and then go ride Harry Potter before my next tattoo appointment." -- Yeah, that's pretty freaking awesome.
For Russell, the idea to start tattooing came about when he played bass in a band, For All Those Sleeping . He says:
"Tattoos are a large part of the music world, so I spent quite a bit of time in the [tattoo] shop. I remember saving up and finally being able to get my big Deja Entendu tattoo from the band Brand New . After 6 hours of work he said it was done, and it was terrible. I thought to myself, 'man, give me that much money and I could do a better job!' And that's when the light bulb turned on. I've always been artistic and creative, I just never really did anything with it. So I decided to pursue a tattoo apprenticeship."
Russell started tattooing in Saint Cloud, MN. He's been tattooing for about two-and-half-years now. He's well-known for his watercolor designs, but strives to do more illustrative tattoos. In fact, most of his free time is dedicated to working on this style.
Jime Litwalk (well-known illustrative tattooist, we share a lot of his stuff), was the first one to show Russell, "...how fun and freeing tattooing can be."
Other influences include Levi Hilton, Tara Quinn, Frank La Natra (also a big supporter of Russell), Justin Nordine, Niko Inko, and Mike Shultz:
"I can go on and on about how many amazing artists there are in the world... And I would only be touching the surface."
Russell's advice to someone looking to get his or her first tattoo:
"Do your research. When you get a tattoo you're not only paying for the art, but for the artist doing it. No two tattoo artists are created equal and no two artists are going to do the same quality work. It is not 'just some lettering' or 'just a little tattoo that anyone can do'. That's just simply not the case."
Russel's advice for artists just getting started:
"GET AN APPRENTICESHIP. Tattooing is so much harder than it looks and really takes the guidance of someone that knows what they are doing. As a tattoo artist, we are always learning and the industry is always changing. So without the guidance, you'll be lost."
Contact Russell Van Schaick
Hart & Huntington
Universal CityWalk
6000 Universal Blvd. #745A
Orlando Fl, 32819
http://hartantandhuntingtonorlando.com
is the best way to book appointments!
Follow Russell on Instagram: @findyoursmile
*** Don’t forget to mention you saw him on PerfectTattooArtists.com!
Images © Russell Van Schaick
