Today we’d like to introduce you to Kyle James.
Kyle, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started tattooing back in 2014 at Benchmark Tattoo in Duluth. During this time I met my now wife Charlie, and bought our home. Big life changes like getting married and starting foster care led us to downsize and open our private studio in the Duluth Folk School. We chose the folk school because we’ve both learned skills through classes there, and I’ve even helped teach a paddle-making course.
Now having our own studio that we co-own, we’re able to spend more time working on the things we love, as well as our small hobby farm. It also gives us the ability to be flexible with foster care and take time off when necessary.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have been many struggles along the way in opening up a new business, but overall I’d say things went pretty smooth. With the support of our friends at benchmark and our families, we plowed ahead and made it happen.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Charlie and I both specialize in American Traditional tattooing. We’ve studied the style for years and made it our own. Since we both love the outdoors and make regular trips to National parks, we decided on a National park themed studio. A lot of our work reflects our love for the outdoors. We focus on animals, plants, landscapes, and especially birds and fish.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I can see tattoo shops getting smaller. The time of 15 tattooers in one space is coming to an end. Tattooers are creating smaller spaces and making stronger financial decisions for their futures.
Pricing:
- $100 minimum
- $175/hour
Contact Info:
- Website: voyageurtattoo.com
- Instagram: @voyageurtattoo | @kylejamestattoo | @chuckjamestattoo
- Facebook: Facebook.com/voyageurtattoo
Image Credits
Riah Beth
