Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Morales.
Hi Heather, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My earliest memories are of me holding a pencil and drawing whatever was in my mind, although it wasn’t until my senior year of high school where I knew I wanted to go to art school. It was there where I felt understood as an artist for the first time, gravitating quickly to the Fashion Department. The late nights at the studio, the aroma of burning muslin fabric under the iron, and the many broken sewing needles; I loved every minute of it.
Fast forward a nationwide pandemic (and some years) changed what I valued in a career path and in life. I believe we all have certain conversations with people that we remember that changes the trajectory of our lives. Mine was with my brother in 2020. It was on a car ride home from my friends’ house where we were talking about our futures. I knew my talents wouldn’t be wasted but I wasn’t sure how to use them in a meaningful and impactful way. Then, in his usual nonchalant tone said “would you become a tattoo artist”? It was perfect. From this moment my motives surrounded becoming a tattoo artist, but unfortunately my mental health was only becoming worse.
Looking back I never would have guessed what would happen next. In October 2023 I gave my life to Christ and nothing was the same. I was always an artist, but it wasn’t until I surrendered my life to Jesus where I understood my purpose. The way I approach my creativity is no longer equated to my worth, simply a means of worship and I will carry that with me forever (and into my tattoo career). I’m excited to say that I am now currently completing my tattoo apprenticeship under an amazing artist, Chris Ingles, at Dapper Dog in Annapolis, MD.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Good question, no I do not think that it has been a smooth road. There was a lot of turbulence, a lot stemming from a lack of identity. As an artist it can be interesting to see the transformation within yourself through your artwork. What I made five years ago is definitely something I would not make now because I am in a completely different headspace, all glory to God. Even if I continue to go through obstacles (which I absolutely will because as is life) I know that the season shall pass.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As mentioned before I started off doing fashion design before transitioning to tattooing. I’ve always loved pieces that were “out there” or visually interesting and I even sometimes reflect that in my own fashion choices. My love for how clothes enhance a person and allows someone to express themselves without words was what I loved about fashion and I can’t wait to do the same with tattoos. I am still apprenticing so I don’t have a specific style just yet, but thanks to my mentor I am being exposed to so many different styles, mediums, and techniques outside of tattooing. It is because of this firm foundation that I am excited to see what designs and styles evolve in my future tattooing career.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I believe taking risks are important, you will never know the full potential of your calling if you don’t have the faith to take that risk. It’s funny because at the moments where I felt I took the biggest risks were the ones where “my spidey senses were tingling,” like that gut feeling (hello Holy Spirit) that reassures you that you don’t need to be afraid.
I took many risks throughout my journey as an artist (like quitting my full time job without a stable backup), but now when I take risks I am believing in the power of Jesus Christ and not my own if I am walking in His will.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathersxink
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@heathersxink
