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The Shop, Port Jervis
Tattoo artist
When did you first become interested in tattooing?
Kamila Dabrowska: I’ve always been into art. Prior to tattooing I was a graphic designer and I got my first tattoo when I was 16. I was doing design, working from home, so it wasn’t a 9-to-5 and I had more time to do things I enjoyed. I apprenticed part-time, and then suddenly I was laid off from my design gig, which was finally my excuse to get out of there.
I wasn’t going to quit, and this gave me an opportunity to focus on my tattooing. I’m 31 now, and I’ve been doing this for four and a half years. It’s been a journey.
What is your style like? Has it evolved?
KD: Neo-traditional color line work. I love color. I’ll do black and white but my strength definitely is in colors. When I first started, I was trying everything to get a fill. Linework was very difficult but I kept telling myself how much I loved it in order to work harder at mastering it.
Do you have any memorable tattoos that you’ve created?
KD: I did a pear blossom recently that stood out to me because I’ve been trying to work with more color palettes, particularly natural colors and thinner lines. That tattoo was delicate.
How many tattoos do you have?
KD: I would say more than half of my body is covered. I don’t even know the hours I’ve put in, well into the thousands. I’ve got some sleeves but it would be hard to put a number to it.
What do you like clients to know before they get a tattoo with you?
KD: Definitely look at different portfolios, give your artist your full trust, and don’t take opinions from other people because that results in a tattoo you won’t be happy with.
What are you looking forward to at Hudson Valley Tattoo Fest?
KD: Networking. I haven’t done many conventions like this so I’m psyched to meet new artists and trade prints.
What does 2019 and the future look like for you?
KD: I want to travel the country and visit friends to give tattoos. I’m definitely going to paint more flash and try different styles to grow as an artist.