Portfolio Question

Hello all. Long time viewer first time poster. I am not a tattoo artist nor do I pretend do be, I am however working on getting an apprenticeship. I'm 23 years old and am currently putting together my portfolio for possible mentors. My question is this... What exactly do I include in my portfolio? My sketches, paintings, drawings, etc. (everything under the sun?). I don't want to walk into a shop with a wheel barrel full of stuff. Do you think a couple 11"x14" sketch books would be fine, or is that skimping? Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

To try to make this as simple as possible, Everything, but not everything, if that makes sense. Remember, you're selling yourself at this point. You're in a situation where you have to do the convincing that you're worthy of an apprenticeship, so yes, everything that you're proud of, everything that you would be impressed by if someone came up to you with it, everything that you think is fantastic, but not everything as in every doodle on a notepaper that's been in your pocket for the last 2 months, or everything like the Van Halen logo with flames that you did when you were 9. Put your best stuff together (the more mediums, the better, it shows you're versatile) and get a nice looking professional grade artists portfolio at an art supply store. Also, get certified in CPR, First Aid and Bloodbourne Pathogens as well as Preventing Disease Transmission. If you have all of these along with a professional looking portfolio, you will look a hell of alot more serious than the usual guy who has a few doodles together or says he can draw, and your chances will be better. Preperation is key. Good Luck!

Definitely go with what was just said. I have also heard, and think it is a good idea, to make up a few sheets of finished flash. And pick a quiet time to show up at the shop...timing's probably about as important as the portfolio itself.

The flash thing is a great idea...as far as portfolios go...KEEP IT SIMPLE...I don't want somebody throwing a pile of stuff on my desk and feel obligated to look at it all...a porty with a maximum of 30-40 sheets of artwork is enough...if 35 sheets of art doesn't tell the person looking at it how much potential you have then something is wrong. Include FINISHED art...I don't want to see sketches you did in middle school art class...I want to see professional quality work in a neat presentable portfolio...If you have done tattoos elsewhere .include pics...unless you did em in your basement then that could offend a lot of pros...gray area there! Include a resume sheet that has personal and business references a brief work history( including military) and education summary and most importantly where you want to go with your art and just what you are going to bring to the table. ALWAYS>>>ALWAYS include your phone number,full name and address....I had an awesome artist leave a portfolio but it had no way to contact her....I never saw her again....which brings us to... Stay in touch...things change in life on a daily basis and if you are in someones mind at the right moment...You ARE HIRED!!! This does NOT mean to bug the crap out of anyone...use common sense! Hope this helps..Questions?...Then e-mail me asshole!!...TAz

Thanks a lot guys, I really appreciate clear answers. Hopefully I'll be on the long road to tattooing soon enough. The artist that's working on my sleeve has asked for some of my artwork so I'll do what was suggested. I'll keep you guys updated and thanks again... Toots.

Well goddammit show ME some!!! LOL!!!...TAz