Marcus Marsall

What inspired your most recent tattoo?

My most recent art is a death moth on my right thigh. I got this tattoo several years after my father passed, as I realized how much I had changed after his death. My upbringing with my father was complicated. In and out of jail/prison, terrorizing my mother, and drugs. This motivated me to be my best, going to college, sports and eventually be a dad myself. I used to blame my dad for my flaws, but looking back, it is all how I choose to react. I miss my dad deeply and forgive him

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

LIVE YOUR LIFE. Nobody can tell you who you are but yourself. People are flawed and don't know everything, even though many act like it. Remember your own beliefs and roots, let these guide you. Mistakes will happen, you are not perfect, just stay the course. I feel I was always missing positive role models in my life and my art is a part of me, inspiring myself. My art is incomplete bc I've focused too much on negative events and how they mold me, I want more art to remind me of the good.

What would you do with the $25,000?

Well I'd probably start with finishing my R arm sleeve, and perhaps starting the next open canvas space I want to express. I am a father of 3 now, and my life is for my family and my community. My kids are 5, 3 and a newborn. Disneyland might be a challenge the next 6 months or so, but perhaps we can reserve time when we are out of that newborn phase. Going to a place where they can be in their element and feel joy is heaven for me. Then max their college funds with the remaining funds.