Meet Makayla Allen | Tattoo Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Makayla Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Makayla, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I could always draw since the age of 12, inspired by my grandmother. I wasn’t sure what i wanted to do for a career but I knew it would involve art . When I got my first tattoo I still didn’t even see it as a career I could do since back in 2014/2015 it was a male dominated industry and i didn’t see many female tattoo artists. I eventually got more interested and decided to give it a shot and it immediately became a passion.. I’ve been building my name and craft up since the age of 16. Tattooing to me is an escape from reality, and i personally never thought I would make it this far… such a long way to go though

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a young female tattoo artist who didn’t have the best start there were lots of people who didn’t think I was ever going to get as far as I am now. That’s okay though i knew and still know that pressure makes diamonds. Tattooing was very difficult for me in the beginning because I was not a people person. I would have horrible anxiety talking to a new person everyday .. I had to learn that my job is not all about art and is a lot about making people feel comfortable and trusting you .. at one point I felt so misplaced I got the word cursed on my face. I eventually decided that it meant cursed with talent.. meaning that it’s fine to not be perfect but to continue to do what you love is what matters the most. Now i wouldn’t trade any of the trials and errors for the world . It has truly molded me to be the person I am today

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Whew my favorite spots?! ohhh y’all want all my secrets lol. If anyone knows me knows I LOVE to eat and try new foods . I’m a huge sushi and seafood fan. Some of my favorite restaurants are Red Crab Juicy Seafood, Niwa Japanese bbq, and Pho Midway. I used to go out a BUNCH to different bars and clubs but i’ve reduced my drinking a lot so i’m a homebody at this point . I love kayaking and going to the dog park with my two dogs Rafiki and Zazu, things like hiking and skydiving excite me more then a club now. I’m super open to trying anything especially anything involving a adrenaline rush!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Of course my family, my grandmother’s inspiration along with my sisters and best friends pushing me to do more . My biggest shout out goes to my mentor , my brother , my guidance, PNUT!! He took me in when i had absolutely no where else to turn. He is an amazing Anime and Pop-culture tattoo artist as well . I appreciate all the knowledge and just him being that role of a brother in my life . it was very much needed . Big shout out to everyone one at 1 Up Ink Tattoo Studios in Dallas , we are all a big family and all absolutely terrific artists .

Website: https://www.1upinktattoostudio.com/

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