"I've dreamed of owning my own tattoo studio since I was a little girl."
Before beginning her journey into tattooing, Gigi worked as a waitress. Creativity had always been a huge part of her life, and for as long as she can remember she dreamed of turning her passion for art into a career.
"My dream has always been to own my own tattoo studio one day. I've loved drawing since I was little, and I knew I wanted a career where I could be creative every day."
Her passion for tattooing started much earlier than many people realise.
Growing up, Gigi's dad was a huge influence. Inspired by the iconic Ed Hardy style, he was covered in bold, colourful tattoos and was rarely seen without his Ed Hardy clothing. Watching his love for tattoo culture sparked Gigi's own fascination with the industry and planted the seed for the career she wanted to build.
Like many aspiring tattoo artists, however, knowing what she wanted to do and knowing how to get there were two very different things.
"The biggest challenge was finding an apprenticeship. I found it incredibly difficult to get my foot in the door."
After countless setbacks, Gigi discovered Monumental Tattoo Academy and realised there was another route into the industry.
"It completely changed my perspective. I realised I didn't have to wait for someone to give me an opportunity—I could start building my skills and creating my own."
For Gigi, Monumental wasn't simply a course; it was the beginning of turning a lifelong dream into a realistic goal. Today, she continues to develop her skills with the same passion that first inspired her all those years ago, taking another step towards the future she's always imagined.
"If you've got the passion, don't let the traditional route be the thing that stops you. There are other ways to start your journey."
Graciela Jones
Gigi Inks