Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennal Wang
Hi Jennal, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started as a pre-law student at UCLA and graduated in 2020. When COVID hit, life slowed down, and for the first time, I had space to really reflect on what I wanted. I had always followed the “practical” path, but deep down, I knew my true passion was art. Taking the leap into tattooing was one of the scariest decisions I’ve ever made, but looking back, I’m so grateful I trusted myself.
I took a gap year to build my portfolio and ultimately began my apprenticeship under two Asian art mentors in California.
My path eventually led me to Philadelphia, where I had the privilege of training under Shifu Nha. Moving across the country was daunting, but it was also one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. For two years, I dedicated myself fully to honing my skills, pushing past my limits, and growing—not just as an artist, but as a person.
This past September, I moved to Houston, ready for the next chapter. I’ve been guest-spotting at shops in different states and countries, constantly learning and evolving. None of this would be possible without the clients who trust me with their stories and visions. Their belief in my work fuels me every day, and I feel incredibly lucky to do what I love—creating art that my clients will carry for life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The tattoo apprenticeship journey was demanding—I worked 6 to 7 days a week, unpaid, while balancing a serving job to make ends meet. It was exhausting, but every challenge reinforced my passion for the craft. When I started tattooing, the shop’s percentage split was steep, and I had to provide most of my own equipment, but my focus was always on improving my skills.
During my early apprenticeship, I often found myself compared to the other female artist in the shop, with suggestions that I should present myself a certain way to gain more attention. Instead, I stayed focused on my craft, letting my work speak for itself. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, I knew that consistency and dedication would be the key to building a lasting career.
Through it all, I am incredibly grateful for the clients who put their trust in me and allowed me to grow as an artist. I’m also thankful for my family, who have always believed in me and kept me grounded in my values and roots. Every step of this journey has shaped me into the artist I am today, and I’m proud of the foundation I’ve built.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in large-scale black and grey modern Asian tattoos, combining traditional influences with a contemporary feel. My background in fine art started early—I took my first art classes in second grade and later attended the Orange County School of the Arts throughout middle and high school. That foundation shaped the way I approach shading, line weight, and creating depth, giving my Asian work a more realism look.
A huge influence on my style comes from my mentor Shifu Nha, who introduced me to the concept of “negatives”—using skin ribbons to break up the design and flow naturally with the body’s musculature. This left a strong impact on me, and I love incorporating movement and balance into every piece I create.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tianinks.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/jennal_wang
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennal.wang/
