Today we’d like to introduce you to Kevin Flores
Hi Kevin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had an affinity for art. I remember drawing things from comic books like Spawn and Sonic and watching anime when I would visit my grandparents in Mexico as a kid. Art was an outlet for me because I was so shy. I kept drawing until I went into the military after high school. I was stationed in Virginia for 4 years and did two deployments on the USS Eisenhower.
When I got out of the Navy I enrolled in college and started working with different mediums. I went to College of the Mainland and finished my bachelors at U of H. At that same time that I was in my first year of college I started my apprenticeship in Galveston, Tx. under Chano Zuniga. I’ve since worked in several different shops over the last decade learning from lots of great artists I’ve met in the process. I’ve managed to make my way to the Sugarland area and have been here for about a year now.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The constant change in ideas from clients helped me become pretty versatile. It was a demanding position because I had to take on a lot of challenging tattoos. Without that pressure I don’t believe I would have grown as quickly as I did. It was interesting to learn what could effectively translate into tattoo. As clients would return over the years I would see how well larger, more open designs would hold up. They are easier to read from a distance and the skin doesn’t break the ink down as fast. Another challenge was convincing my traditional Hispanic parents that this is what was best for me. They eventually came around and have been supportive along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a tattoo artist who focuses on color but am pretty well rounded. I also enjoy making digital and traditional works when commissioned. With my tattooing, I’ve settled into a style where I prioritize linework and contrast in my pieces. I think the longevity of the tattoo is super important to me. I enjoy doing color pieces the most and have been focused on illustrative and anime style tattoos the last 6 or so years.
Having trust from some of the coolest clients is what I’m most proud of. To see them come back and even travel a bit for me is crazy. I love that I’ve gained their confidence to bring their ideas to life. I’ve now been tattooing for almost 10 years and still enjoy it deeply.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Most of the time people are surprised at my age, I’m 35. I also used to teach drawing classes for a seniors program I did with COM. I did that for about a year and a half and it was honestly so much fun.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Kalamitytattoo
- Other: Kalamitytattoo@gmail.com
