Meet Alison Gaspard | Illustrative & Color Realism Tattoo Artist

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

Hi Alison, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most challenging decision I made was leaving a stable career in education as an art teacher to pursue the unpredictable path of becoming a tattoo artist. After years of studying and working in academia, including earning a BFA, working at an art museum, and teaching art history and visual arts, I became captivated by the evolution of tattoo art into the fine arts world. Despite the risks—such as no benefits, unstable income, and the need to build a clientele—I chose to leave the security of teaching to apprentice at a tattoo studio. This transition required learning new skills not only in tattooing but also in marketing, photography, and communication. I find tattoo artistry to be a rewarding career that requires dedication, offering both personal growth and the opportunity to contribute to the field’s ongoing development as a recognized fine art form.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a dedicated tattoo artist based in Houston, TX, with a robust background in fine arts. I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art, credits towards a Master of Arts in Art History, and have spent over a decade immersed in the art world, honing my skills in various capacities. I have served as a Dual Credit Art History and Visual Arts teacher, sharing my passion for art with students, while also enriching my community while working at the Art Museum of Southeast Texas. My diverse experiences have enriched my artistic perspective, allowing me to blend academic fine art techniques with contemporary tattoo practices. My work is characterized by a deep understanding of color, composition, and storytelling, which I integrate into my tattoo designs. I believe in the transformative power of body art, viewing it as a continuation of fine arts tradition. Through my tattoos, I aim to create lasting connections between art and the human experience, ensuring each piece is not only visually striking but also personally meaningful.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would have to begin this adventure with taking a stroll through downtown Houston. Begin with the Contemporary Arts Museum for a free viewing of the latest revolutionary artists the world has to offer, then surround yourself with the awe-inspiring sculptures through the Cullen Sculpture Garden. For a bite to eat and something to quench your thirst, segue into the MFA Cafe before perusing their permanent collection, and their ever-revolving exhibitions. If you want to adventure out into local gems, I recommend having a full-flavored beer at the unmatched Misfit Brewery. This location has distinctive beer in rotation that comes from the creative geniuses, Sarah Nadeem and Juan Sanchez, co-owners and brewers. Not only are you going to want to relax at their outdoor patio with a cold one, you can also find local food trucks that never disappoint, including Desi Pizza, a 100% homemade food truck from the dough to the sauces. The environment is a comfortable spot to spend time with friends, read a good book, or discuss your favorite finds from your trip with the beertenders!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I express deep gratitude for the support from many people who have helped along the way. My husband, Matthew Gaspard, has been an unwavering source of support. My tattoo career could not have begun without the guidance of Mike Ashworth at Advent Tattoo, where I apprenticed. The other owner of Advent Tattoo, Mike Woods, along with colleagues Kale Millikan, Cara Lee, and Mili Gonzalez, provided artistic advice, client communication tips, and a positive, supportive environment. I also acknowledge the owners of Black Rabbit Tattoo, Molly and Jesus Alvidrez, for creating a motivating collective of artists, including Nathan Thomas, Justin Anderson, and Koray Williams, who challenge and inspire me every day.

Website: https://www.alisonlenayfineart.com/

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