We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kike Castillo. Check out our conversation below.
Kike, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Challenging myself to grow in different directions outside of art. I love art but trying to become well-rounded in a physical way, too. I’ve been rock climbing and doing yoga for 8 years but lately have stepped up my yoga practice and will get certified as a yoga instructor by the end of the year. Being able to show up for myself and share this with others brings me joy.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a Colombian immigrant who arrived to NYC at 17 years old. I did my first tattoo at 11 by hand, started tattooing with a machine at 17, and opened my own shop (@BrightsideTattooShop on IG) at 29. I’ve been tattooing professionally for 22+ years, and I’m known for American and Japanese traditional styles, and large-scale bodysuit type tattoos. My shop started as a private studio for the first four years and due to popularity and growth, we expanded into a full shop (1130 Light St.) with other tattoo artists. We are a staple of the city with a core crew and international guests who bring different styles to our clientele. I also specialize in painting on Kozo and Washi (Japanese paper) in addition to acrylic and oil paintings. I often share my paintings on my social media (@KikeCastillo) and they are available for sale at the shop.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My sister Monica. We were very close and she believed in my talent because I’ve been drawing and painting since I was very little. She urged me to tattoo her when I was just 11 and she was 13. We shared a special moment because it was the first tattoo I gave and it was also her first tattoo.
When we moved to the US six years later, she was the one who insisted I get into the world of tattooing in a more official way. She started apprenticing at Sacred Tattoo (NYC) and introduced me to the world of tattooing, its traditions, and history. As an older sister, she was constantly cheering me on and pushing me to keep learning. I am the artist I am now because of her influence.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
My sister Monica passed when I was 25 and we were both living in NYC. She was such a big influence on me that it was a devastating loss. Not having her with me made me feel like giving up since this was an endeavor that had brought us even closer together. Her absence in NYC became overwhelming and I decided to reset by moving to Baltimore. Since then, I have found resilience through focusing on my art, striving to improve. Continuing this work is a way to honor her.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I have a small but tight circle of friends. They would say I always want to give 101% when it’s something I feel strongly about, such as my business and my hobbies. I am always striving to push forward and not fall into complacency. That, and good food.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I have not thought about what I want people to say, but what I do know is that people will have my art on them and that speaks to my years of dedication to this craft. I think beyond worrying about what people will say about me, it’s important to me that my art will outlive me via the tattoos on my clients’ bodies.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @BrightsideTattooShop
- Other: [email protected]
