Apprentice tid-bits....

Posted this on and thought I should post it here to see what you thoughts were. Okay, I have a question to ask, and I know I'm not the first. I am currently working on my art portfolio and trying to bring it to the level that I feel will land me an apprentice position with the artist that I would like as my mentor. My question is, as a tattooist, if you were looking/considering an apprentice, granted that the artist in question impressed you, would you find it more benaficial if the artist had already had minor experience with a machine, or is this un-necassary? I don't mean doing any work on people. All I mean is, would I be helping my self and my future mentor at all if I were to be practising on grapefruits and fake skins, documenting my progress as I go along, thus becoming familiar with a machine and simple techniques. In no way would I ever consider working on someone before my time was right. I have more respect and admiration for this industry and the people who have built it and that's why I want to go about this the best and right way. Your opinions on this matter are greatly appreciated. Thanks. SP

First line should read: "Posted this on another site and thought I should post it here to see what you thoughts were. "

There is no benefit in owning the machine before you know what to do with it.If you are pursuing an apprenticeship with an accomplished tattoo person ,you should allow them to lead.Save the money,when you are ready the machine will feel that much better in your hand. Good Luck and be Diligent

With a good apprenticeship you probably shouldn't even touch a machine until you have learned to draw for a whole year at least. This is not to say that you cant draw now it is implying that there will be things you will learn about tattooing that will influence your art in ways that will allow you to do better "Tattoos" not just drawing on people. The most important thing about doing a tattoo is seeing how stuff heals and stays in, there is nothing to practice on except the real thing. Don't let anyone put you on the floor tattoing until you have at least 2 years training! or more.

hey, thanks for the replies. They will certainly help me along the way.

Brandon, wish I could man but we're on opposite sides of the continent. I'm in Vancouver, Canada. Wish I could pop by and show you my work... good luck in finding a suitable apprentice, I'm sure you will have piles of portfolio's dropped at your door. You're guys' calibre of work is truly amazing, damn I should move to Atlanta just for the opportunity. Anyway, thanks for the heads up...