Today we’d like to introduce you to Ben Frazier.
Hi Ben, 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 have drawn all my life. Illustration was my comfort zone. Unlike most artists or designers, I could draw anything from my imagination. Instead of having to look at the subject constantly. And, my imagination has always been vivid.
Since creating from imagination came so easy for me, I was able to study styles, techniques, and different mediums early on. I developed my talent with study and practice. Lots of practice.
My first professional paid job was a local moving company. The owner had contacted the high school art teacher to recommend a student to create their business logo. She recommend me. Before this I had done some art for friends or the school for homecoming tshirts.
I accepted the job and stayed on track to find an art career. From a time before social media, I would take a portfolio around to local places to get work. Displayed and sold art in art galleries. I also started to submit to comicbook companies.
I did end up finding work in comicbooks. Most of the work was independent at first. It was great practice while I got an understanding for sequential art.
I did get work from some smaller publishers like Hourglass and Red Stylo. Working with names like Jang, Smith, and Bryant. Going to conventions to promote. Then 13 years later I started to tattoo.
I was designing skateboard graphics for a local skate shop around 2012. When I got an opportunity to enter a tattoo apprenticeship. I officially became a certified tattoo artist 3 years later.
Tattooing took over my life. It became my full-time job for 12 years now. I have worked all over the eastern part of the U.S. practicing my trade at conventions and other tattoo studios.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has NOT been a smooth road. When it comes to art you get paid by the piece not by the hour. That alone is terrifying for most people because there’s no guarantee you get paid. Ever.
But there was a real struggle to stay focused on art and not hang out with friends, or play all day, or go party. I had and STILL have to, control what influences and distracts me.
So relationships, friendships, school, and society are very hard for a creative.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What I’m most known for would be tattooing. It has been my full-time job and career for 12 years now.
I specialize in traditional and neo-traditional styles, blending classic motifs with a modern twist. As well as cover-ups. Having experience with tattoo equipment, pigments, and skin health really helps with cover-ups.
My experience is what sets me apart from others most times. I have developed a good routine and have become efficient in the process. I am quick and most people like that because it hurts to get tattooed. My illustration experience helps with getting people’s ideas down visually. When I was reading a script for a comic book I had to imagine what I was reading. So seeing images through someone else’s eyes is something I had to focus on alot. Which really helped with tattooing.
I am most proud of being able to say thank you. This lifestyle is definitely not for everyone. Of course, I wouldn’t be here doing this if it wasn’t for those who support me and love me or took a chance on me. So I am grateful and proud of it. Thank you so much.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
The people around me and meeting others through my job is more of an influence on me than media or entertainment these days.
Pricing:
- Tattoos start at $100
- Tattoo cover-ups start at $200
- Custom art commisions start at $40
- Sequential art starts at $150 per page
Contact Info:
- Email: Fraziertattooing@gmail.com
- Instagram: @fraziertattooing
