Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriella Lozano.
Hi Gabriella, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve gone through a lot to get where I am today! I’m from Houston, moved around the state a lot in my 20s, I’ve lived in Dallas, where I learned to Tattoo, Austin, and now San Antonio. Looking back I don’t think I would’ve seen myself here now but I’m definitely doing things I never thought possible so I guess that’s a good thing! While learning to tattoo in Dallas my mentor died so I was pretty much self taught from there on out. I had no support from my peers which was a huge reason I moved back home to Houston before moving here. I’ve had negativity thrown at me my entire tattoo career. And trust me I’m no sissy. I can take harsh talk. And tough criticism. Just not abusive behavior and bullying which I felt at home and at shops, which is what drove me to work alone in the first place! I just want people to know and especially women in the industry that we can do this if we just truly believe in ourselves and don’t allow negativity from people to interfere with our goals. They’re gonna talk regardless.
I moved here during the pandemic to be closer to my grandmother while attending cosmetology school. The idea was to graduate with knowledge in the industry so I could one day open a tattoo shop fused with a salon. But I’m not going to give away all my secrets. 🙂
I ended up getting pregnant right before graduation but that didn’t stop me. I was discouraged after having my daughter that I would never get ahead. But one day I woke up and I said no, no that’s not going to be my story. I began attending pop up markets in November or 2021 to get my name out there since I didn’t have much chance to do that since I moved here with the lockdown and getting pregnant and all. I would make flash tattoo sheets, filled with small design for smaller prices. Tattoos I could do fast. I had done parties in Houston and New York City so tattooing live at events didn’t scare me. I was on a mission and had the support of my partner Erick so he would help watch the baby while I tattooed the pop ups. By January 2022 I had grown enough of a following and saved enough money by attending the Garden Market at the Vaulti enough Saturdays in a row that I was offered an opportunity to rent a studio space out of the Community Garden (at the Vaulti) and I took it!
I’d say a lot of it was hard work and determination that had gotten me where I’m at so fast, but in all honesty, I think most of it is thanks to my mindset. I embraced the law of attraction, I tell myself every day what I want and what I’m going to do to get it. And then I thank the universe for providing me with everything I need. I’ve been blessed. Tiered but blessed and I cannot wait to see what the future hold for me and my business!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’d say battling Rheumatoid arthritis has been a huge obstacle. Managing an inflammatory disease which relies a lot stress regulation, while having a newborn and a brand new business is INSANE. Moving to a brand new city a month before the pandemic hit was also crazy. I knew no one in a new city and I was confined to my home. It was horrible. I felt so lost and homesick it was very very hard.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Tattoos by Gabriella Lozano?
Tattoos by Gabriella Lozano is a private studio located at the Community Garden at the Vaulti. It is an appointment based studio where I practice tattooing as well as some hair coloring services! I am dedicated to the craft and specialize in American Traditional and Blackwork tattoos. I think what sets me apart from others is that I’m nice. Tattoo artists are known for being rude and unapproachable and I strive to be the exact opposite.
Tattooing is a super intimate thing, it’s permanent it’s ritual it’s sacred. I want those who are trusting me with their bodies to know I’m going to take care of them and that they are safe and welcome with me. You get enough nerves going to get tattooed the last thing you need to worry about is if your artist likes your design or if you’re going to be treated with respect. This is your body and tattoos are forever.
Also, I’m a woman and this is still an industry dominated by males with egos and unfortunately sometimes womanizing. So I feel like I’m a breath of fresh air in a world that’s so uptight and scary to begin with. And women feel safe around me. Even guys have told me they feel more comfortable around a female tattooer now that they’ve had both. Honestly, I don’t think gender should be the issue but I definitely think attitude and character and personality is a huge deal and literally makes or breaks you in this industry.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
You can show support by following me on Instagram @gabriellaalozano.
You can book with me via IG or my Website www.gabriellaalozano.com.
Also, show support by coming to my live art show! CHERRY BOMB hosted by me at the Community Garden May 20 6-10pm free to the public live art and music and tattooing!
Pricing:
- $150/hour by appointment only
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.gabriellalozano.com
- Instagram: gabriellaalozano
