Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenneth Maushardt.
Hi Kenneth, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Tattooing started for me kind of later in life I was 24 when I picked up a machine and I quickly fell in love with it. I realized I wanted to take things seriously and started seeking out apprenticeships. I landed one at a shop in Jersey City, NJ while I was living there and stayed with them for about 8months before moving out of New Jersey. When I landed in Pennsylvania I knew it was my chance to take the leap. I stumbled upon a shop in search of an apprentice and took my chance. Showing up every single day until I finally received my apprenticeship 3months later. Over the next nearly 4yrs I dedicated everything I could to tattooing and eventually reached a point it was time to branch out from my mentor. I joined a buddy of mine at his shop and over the next 5yrs I grew as an artist and learned as much as possible about the industry. So after nearly a decade in the industry and opportunity presented itself for me to open my own shop and I couldn’t let it pass up. Now 7months into business I have 3 other artist tattooing and learning under me and have brought in 2 piercers to compliment the shop.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Not at all I had people telling me to stop before I even got started. People telling me I’d never be a real tattooer. I went weeks, months even without making a single dollar. Showing up at a shop with nothing happening hoping you can get someone in the chair just to make a few dollars, it’s not easy but I think it’s helped make me who I am today
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I never claim a specific style of tattooing. When I’m asked what’s my specialty it’s easy… tattooing. I love all styles I truly find happiness in sitting down and just being able to create whatever it may be that my client wants. I’d say I’m most known for my black and gray work but again I enjoy all of it. I think my clients would agree I’m one of the most honest, raw person you’ll meet and I think that’s what people love about me. I’m not gonna sugar coat things just to take someone’s money if it’s a waste I’m gonna be honest.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Everyone I’ve come across in my journey holds a special part and I’d never discredit anyone. My biggest influence in my success though is my dad. Unfortunately he passed before seeing where I’d take this journey. I’ll never forget the day I told him I was gonna become a tattoo artist that day sticks with me not cause of his doubt but cause I know he knew I meant it. He always wanted the best for me so I’m gonna make sure I leave the best of me here when my times up.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ksmtattoos?igsi=MWRmaGppd2N3dGFraQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DWFQoRzsb/?mibextid=wwXIfr
