The tattoo community in El Paso has blown up within the past decade and since its rise in acceptance and popularity many quality artists have emerged onto the scene. Fusion recognizes all talent and salutes all hard working tattoo artists in El Paso and sees no hierarchy, as anyone deserves the recognition; everyone is equal. Fusion was fortunate to interview 4 El Paso based artists about the tattoo culture as well as their own personal experiences that led them to a career in tattoo art. Alex Inostroza of Pumping Ink Tattoo is our third feature artist.
How long have you been tattooing art?
Since 2004.
What is your first memory of tattoos?
Was at a friends house and his brother had a homemade tattoo machine, we stole it and tattooed each other with it. We sharpened our own guitar string on his moms nail filer…it was bad but good memories.
How did you get into tattooing?
I saw an ad while working a sucky 9 to 5 job in What’s Up Magazine for tattoo classes at Bangkok Tattoo shop.
Do you create any other type of art aside from tattoos?
Drawing, graffiti, painting …..pretty much anything and everything that has to do with art or creativity.
Who are some of your favorite tattoo artists from El Paso?
Andres Zapien, Matt Valles, Alex Ruiz.
What does art mean to you?
The expression of ones life, all the good and bad stuff one has been through. I think if you are an artist, all that stuff translates really well into your art. Plain and simple—art is life.
Are you from El Paso?
Born and raised in Chuco Town.
How do you describe the type of tattoo art you create to someone who has never seen it before?
Original- powerful imagery.
How has the tattoo culture of El Paso changed since you first started?
I think the tattoo industry has changed a lot for the good and bad. Good because of the T.V. shows started making it ok. I guess people are all more open minded and appreciate the artwork now. On the other hand, kids that see it on T.V., think it looks easy, so lets try it and fuck up everybody. But thats how I make money too from the scratchers having to cover shit up. I’m not hating on the scratchers, I use to be one! Ha! Ha! I’m grateful for the scratchers and the bad mother fuckers that keep me on my toes. Now tattooing evolved into something nobody would have expected or imagined, and I’m very grateful for the 1 person to help me get my foot in the door….they know who i’m talking about.
Where can people find you and your work?
Pumping Ink Tattoo located at 4001 Dyer Ste. A 915-565-8288 or Instagram @LILALEX915 or email at [email protected]