Meet Kirk Nilsen | Tattoo artist

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

Hi Kirk, other than deciding to work for yourself, what else do you think played a pivotal role in your story?
Apart from choosing to work for myself, the pivotal decision that propelled my success was sticking to my unique artistic vision and embracing authenticity.

Despite the prevailing belief that tattooing was relegated to the realm of lowbrow art, I stayed true to my passion for fine art, intricate designs, and architectural motifs. I was able to bring a new base of art collectors into the industry, many of whom were previously uninterested in tattoos. Artists and collectors alike were confused why I would open a private studio, not allow walk ins, why I would only draw custom designs, and why my designs didn’t “look like tattoos.”

My concept of transforming the body into an architectural art piece instead of stickering rudimentary drawings all over a client, propelled me into a success I never dreamed possible. Authenticity and innovation prevail.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is a fusion of medieval architectural and ornamental motifs, setting it apart from conventional tattoo styles. What makes my work truly original is that I’m the only artist pioneering this distinct approach to tattooing.

My journey to where I am today has been far from easy. From facing opposition in the form of gangs attempting to shut down my first shop in 2012 to bureaucratic hurdles such as towns outright banning tattoo studios, landlords refusing to allow me to rent their property due to the nature of my business, and even the health department ignoring my request to open a studio. Challenges seemed ever-present.

Moreover, the industry’s insular nature made it difficult to break through traditional channels, with established cliques hindering my visibility in tattoo magazines. This is also without mentioning the learning curve, as well as being able to secure an apprenticeship.

However, I refused to let these obstacles derail my passion. Instead, I turned adversity into opportunity, committing myself to relentless study, drawing, and learning from the world’s best artists. I persevered, traveling extensively to refine my craft and expand my artistic horizons.

Along the way, I learned invaluable lessons about trust and authenticity. I discovered that not everyone in the industry has good intentions, with some artists willing to exploit relationships for personal gain. These experiences taught me to remain vigilant and prioritize integrity above all else.

Despite the arduous path, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. Today, I am proud to be recognized as a top artist worldwide, with clients traveling from all corners of the globe to experience my custom, one-of-a-kind designs.

I am happy to see the industry was forced to evolve and transform, with the old ways of bad tattoos, gangs, and low brow art dissipating, and a new era of fine art, high end studios and respectable art and artists has become the norm. I am proud to say I was one of the ones paving the new path and helping this become reality.

My story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and authenticity in pursuing one’s creative vision, and I hope it inspires others to do the same.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First, if you don’t sail, learn to sail and get a sailboat and spend every day on the water. This is my go-to.

Otherwise, check out rainbow row, the French Huguenot Church, eat at Poogans Smokehouse for my favorite BBQ, and just go walk around I’on.

Also just walking around Charleston in general is great. This is the best-preserved city in America, one of the only places to see nice architecture in this country. I am a massive fan of old world aesthetics & beautiful architecture. I miss working in Europe all the time; so, Charleston is the closest you will get. It is absolutely beautiful here. Shem Creek is great for dining, etc. but it can be insanely busy with crazy wait times.
And go to a Charleston Battery game! I am a huge soccer fan.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not have acquired the success I have without first and foremost, my wife being by my side the entire time and helping with all the headaches along the way – and putting up with my 24/7 painting, drawing, studying, working and traveling. (or worse, my 24/7 rambling of ideas) My mentor Scott Winters for giving me the opportunity to learn the skills of tattooing. The endless world-renowned tattoo shops and artists who helped me along the way by allowing me to guest at their studios from America to Europe; and all the advice they had given me along the way. Ami James from tattoodo and everyone who helped get me into magazines. There are way too many to list, and do not want to risk forgetting a name. Last but not least, my grandfather for the work ethic.

Website: https://www.kirknilsen.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirknilsentattoos

Facebook: it’s hacked lol