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

Hi Kayla, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’ve drawn and painted since I was a kid and have always been passionate about art. I’ve tried working office jobs and doing tattooing or painting on the side but I would always wish I was at home creating when I was at my day job until I finally made the decision to do it full time.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Im most excited about one day having a solo art show, collaborating on projects with my art, and experimenting and pushing myself more with my style and with what I can create. When I started my apprenticeship my daughter was only 9 months old and I had been tattooing out of my home studio prior so switching over to where I would have to leave her to go to work was an adjustment for me and I was also just like any new mom figuring it out while simultaneously trying to pour myself into my new career so I could get better and be able to provide for her and I as well. It was hard but it was worth it and I’m proud I can show my daughter what I’ve worked for and what I will build from here.

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 probably take them to the art museum and try looking up a new coffee shop or food spot close by for us to try. Downtown has so many talented creatives in the community so there’s always something to go to to have a good time and also support one of the homies so I would definitely try to bring them to something going on by one of our talented locals.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My friends and family that believed in me and pushed me not to limit myself and my mentor Vito Torres at It Always Hurts, he took a chance on me and taught me to be a better tattooer.

Instagram: @kaylalpayne

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