Meet Marissa Kay: Tattoo Artist/ Mixed Media Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Marissa Kay and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Marissa, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
In general I’d say that going into almost any creative or entrepreneurial field is a bit risky. I see risk-taking as a necessary and unavoidable part of my career, both in art and tattooing. I believe that longterm tenacity is the key to succeeding at most things despite how risky they are or aren’t. It’s not about taking a risk one time- It’s about choosing to take that same risk every morning you wake up. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I owe most of my skills/ success to my art education. I graduated with a BA in Studio Art a handful of years back. The time I spent growing in college shaped me into the artist I am today. A lot of what I learned I apply in tattooing, and of course when I paint/ draw in my free time as well. How did I overcome the challenges at the beginning? I honestly do not know. It’d be easy for me to say that I persevered and always stayed strong- standing up to every obstacle with courage. But I didn’t. I crawled, struggled, even moved backwards at times. I didn’t have moments where I wanted to give up. I had days, weeks, and months where I wanted to give up. But I never stopped. And I think thats the key to success with anything. You never quit. You never stop trying. You use your failures as a learning tool, and give yourself permission to grow like you would for anyone else.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
San Diego has some of the best coffee shops around. I’ve spent a lot of time drawing in different spots around the city but Lestat’s Coffee House is definitely an all time favorite. Balboa Park as a whole is great as well- The San Diego Museum of Art is a fun stop, along with the Botanical Building which is just a hop away. There’s a lot to get inspiration from both inside and outside.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost my Mom definitely deserves credit for the success I have. She’s always had my back through every twist and turn, and she’s encouraged me to keep pushing myself. Without her support I would not be the artist I am today. Love you Mom! I’d also like to credit all the amazing artists I’ve had the gift of working with. Both during and after college I’ve grown through my peers. My crew at Sea Hag Tattoo has been crucial in my success as well and I can’t wait to continue growing alongside them.

Website: www.instagram.com/marissakaytattoo
Instagram: www.instagram.com/marissakayart
Other: www.seahagtattoo.com