The Ink Specialist: Danny Lepore
At the young age of 23, tattooist Danny Lepore is already solidifying his spot as a rising star in the tattoo world. Perhaps his most impressive trait is the level of dedication and passion he has for his chosen vocation. While most of his peers are still trying to figure out their respective paths in life, he’s already locked & loaded and his technique and clout are increasing by the day. He has graced the cover of Inked Magazine, and he’s been featured on the reality TV show, Best Ink. Oh, and did we mention that his schedule is booked well into next year with both stateside and international clients? Read on to learn more about what it takes to be one of top ink-slingers in the game.
When did you first start training to be a tattoo artist and what was your first tattoo?
I was 16 when I got my first tattoo; my mom took me and I got something dumb on the inside of my lip. I was 17 when I got my apprenticeship and 18 was when I started tattooing.
What would you say is the main difference between a good tattooist and an exceptional one?
I think that someone who actually cares about the art and has a passion for it will always do a better job. I try to treat every tattoo as if I was about to put it on myself and do the best job possible.
You’re only 23-yrs-old and you’ve already accomplished so much in your craft. What’s the secret to your success and motivation?
Honestly, not drinking alcohol. I do not drink and it keeps me focused. I care about this job more than any distractions in my life, so even when I’m tired, I just keep pushing. I won’t stop until I’m on the top.
Do people often come to you with their own art for tattoos or do you usually provide the artistic direction and vision for them?
When people come to me with more than just an idea and they want to be really specific, I take it into consideration but I like to create my own art and to collaborate (not copy) their ideas.
You travel a lot for work too. Tell us some of your favorite places you’ve been for work and play?
It’s hard to choose because I’ve been to so many cool places in the past year. I probably did 20 to 25 trips just last year alone. But if I had to pick my favorites, Sweden is really awesome and the people there are really about the tattoo culture. For vacation, I went to St. Lucia for 11 days and loved it.
You were on the reality TV show, Best Ink. How did that experience go and would you do something like that again?
I learned that I don’t want to be a reality TV star. I care more about respect than to be popular these days.
At the rate you’re going, the sky is truly the limit. What are some of your goals for the next few years?
Currently with tattooing I’m booked out at 6 months in advance. I have a crazy waiting list so I feel like I’m kind of maxing out on tattooing. Even though tattooing is the most important thing in my life, it’s time to branch out to some new opportunities. I’m looking to open a second business in the near future and I’m continuously searching for new open doors. To be honest, I don’t really know what the future holds for me but whatever it is I am going to work my ass off for it, to make sure I succeed.
Your whole body is covered in ink. What’s your favorite tattoo and what is the next one you’re getting?
It’s hard to say which is my favorite. In my opinion, that’s like asking who your favorite child is. They’re all from certain times of my life and are such different styles of art that I can’t choose. As for my next tattoo, I have two full days booked in December to get my entire stomach done by Carl Grace.
With your growing stature in the tattoo world, you must have a lot of tattoo groupies constantly chasing you down on social media. Any crazy experiences you care to share?
Lol, sometimes females get a little thirsty, but I’m just staying hydrated on my career, so I don’t have time for any of that.
What’s the craziest request you’ve ever received from someone about where he/she wanted a tattoo?
I tattooed “lucky you” on some girl’s lady parts and yes it was awkward … I didn’t feel so lucky.
That’s hilarious. What is the longest continuous session of tattooing you’ve done?
The longest session I’ve done was 14 hours straight and I’ve also tattooed somebody 4 days straight to complete a sleeve.
Lastly, can you tell our readers how they can reach you to get an authentic Danny Lepore tattoo?
Currently, booking is a little tight, but if you’re interested, you can email me (dannyleporex@gmail.com) and wait for my assistant to answer you back, or come by the shop where I work: Bullseye Tattoo Studio in Staten Island.
To keep up with Danny, follow him on instagram at: @dannylepore
Shop Danny’s Look below:
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