Meet Carlos A Mendoza | Self Taught Tattoo Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Carlos A Mendoza and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carlos A, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
What can I say I’m 100% Mexican ! On a genuine note, I was born and lived in Mexico until I turned 5. Coming to California, my parents struggled like any other family coming to the U.S. looking for the American Dream. Growing up I knew I wanted to do something on the artistic side, and drawing came naturally for me. I spent most of my time drawing and painting, not to mention it was something I was very passionate about . We didn’t have the money to be spending on video games or to go out, so I would spend all day in my room drawing. As soon as I started High School I wasn’t sure what career path I was going to perceive. A part of me wanted to make my parents proud by pursuing a career in the Dental field. As a DACA dreamer, a part of me felt pressured to make my parents proud by doing something with my life. Saying I wanted to be a Tattoo Artist was something that was frowned upon by my family. In spite of that, I believed in myself , and was willing to put the time and effort even if I had the support from no one. When I turned 21 I dropped out of College and started working to save up for my equipment. There’s no denying it was not an easy journey but here I am today, alot of late nights and early mornings.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a Black & Grey Tattoo Artist with 6 years in the Tattoo Industry I can definitely say it’s been a long ride. Being your biggest supporter is what has helped me along my journey. You have to believe in yourself and take that risk.

I’m confident about my work & I’m proud to be where I’m at, but nowhere near where I want to be. It’s not about competition to me it’s about perfecting my craft. As we all know ink on your skin is permanent, I want to impact the life of my clients by giving them something there going to show off with pride. Which is why I dedicate so much time on each and every client to offer them the best quality tattoo. Quality over Quantity.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Where do I start, one of my favorite places to go eat in OC is Boiling Crab . A pound of shrimp topped off with the whole shebang sauce could never disappoint! Craving a cocktail ? Dave n Buster’s Strawberry Watermelon Margarita will leave you wanting another round hands down. Aside from food , I like attraction rides, and one of my favorite places to go to is Knotts Berry Farm. I would have to say Hang Time, Xcelerator & Ghost Rider are my top 3. Lastly, on my free time I like taking my beagle for late night walks at the beach.

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?
I want to thank everyone who believed and everyone who has collected a piece of art by me. I want to thank everyone who has guided me down the right path in this journey. I wouldn’t be where im at without the help and trust of my clients that’s forsure. Without them I wouldn’t be living the dream.

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Other: email: thisisnotceelos@gmail.com