Michael Niemiec

Connect What inspired your most recent tattoo?

My uncle passed away about 2 years ago. He was my inspiration for tattoos growing up as he was entirely tatted. I honored him by designing a back piece which represents different pieces of his life and mine which connect us. Using symbolism and metaphors I was able to create a piece that makes me feel connected from him. The best part is it is all original and my idea from the beginning. I was blessed to have an artist talented enough to allow my ideas to come to life.

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

My ink would talk about the pieces of me and my uncle that keep us together regardless of him not physically alongside of me. Separate from my back, my chest piece would represent my personality of outgoing and courage. It would speak about the hardships I have faced in my life and how I pushed through the adversity. Being only 20 years old and getting that tattoo at 18, it would also represent my commitment to my true self and trusting who I am as a person.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to help pay my college tuition and give the rest out to people in need like my close family who struggle financially on top of other issues. To me it is not about the money though. Since I was 14 and my sister (who lives in NYC) introduced me to bang bangs instagram, I fell in love with the unique style and have always planned on getting a tattoo from the studio big or small. Being able to have a session with Bang Bang would be an honor that I would adore having.