Meet Xtina Ink: The Artist Behind Fine Line and Micro-Realism
Meet Xtina Ink: The Artist Behind Fine Line and Micro-Realism
Christina is wearing The Slim Wide Leg in dark
My name is Cristina Tejeda but I go by Xtina Ink. I am tattoo artist based in Los Angeles that currently focuses on fine line and micro-realism. I’m 26 years old and I’ve grown up in a cultural family blended with Mexican and native heritage which inspires me in my art.
What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?
Since I can remember I have always been grounded and passionate about art in all its forms. Anything that I could get my hands involved with, I gravitated towards with a vigorous ambition to learn and create. I come from parents who were accountants and though artistic expression was not their personal experience they supported mine. Whether it was painting, drawing, photography, ceramics or multimedia I was inspired by the mentors I was lucky enough to meet. Four years ago the opportunity presented itself to learn to tattoo. To have the responsibility of creating art that lives beyond years and on skin is like no other.
Christina is wearing The Slim Wide Leg in dark
What tattoo trends are you loving right now?
I currently love the resurgence of traditional tattooing, surrealism and abstract script.
Traditional tattooing is part of the foundation to the culture of tattooing. Surrealism is one of my favorite art styles and is my personal style of choice in tattoos. Abstract script is intuitive and is meant to be created for the individuals form which is beautiful to see.
What tattoo trends are you happy to see lessen in popularity?
In my honest opinion a tattoo trend I’m happy to lessen is the “clean girl” trend- where tattoo removal and the clean aesthetic of no tattoos has increased.
To me tattoos shouldn’t participate in the circular cycle of trends at all. Tattoos are layered by history, cultural significance and individual expressions. Main stream acceptance of tattoos is relatively new in the scope of its history and seeing it currently cycled rapidly by social influence and consumerism is daunting. It’s a practice and permanent alteration to one’s body. Though it does not need meaning it should be decided consciously.
Christina is wearing The Slim Wide Leg in dark
What is your number one piece of advice for new business owners?
Developing a business that is a reflection of your passion can be both wonderfully fulfilling and challenging. Each day is different and you may be required to wear several hats at once. Be patient with yourself and the outcome of your goals. There may come the challenge to define your business by standards that did pertain to your original intentions in order to keep up. It is important to transform and progress with the current market but remember to stay grounded to the roots and foundation.
What is a non-negotiable part of your daily routine when life gets busy?
A non-negotiable is to ground myself with time no matter how small. Whether it’s stretching, grabbing a cup of coffee or hugging a love one before I leave for work. Five minutes of peace can set me up better to take up space in a busy a routine.
Christina is wearing The Slim Wide Leg in dark
How do you like to style your Just Black Denim jeans?
I like to style my Just Black Denim Jeans casually, with a comfortable sweater or shirt that is often colored by earth tones. To pair it off I’ve been wearing my doc martins or ballet flats. Because of how comfortable the denim feels they have become a staple in my wardrobe at work.