Nicholas

What inspired your most recent tattoo?

My most recent tattoo is actually my first—an entire sleeve, inspired by my early indecisiveness. At 12, after seeing artists like Jeremy McKinnon and Oli Sykes, I knew I wanted a full sleeve. But concrete images never felt right to me. In my late teens, I became drawn to abstract art and realized I could apply that to my skin. Shortly after, geometric tattoos became my favorite style. For a degree of sentiment, I included a chrysanthemum to honor my late grandmother, her favorite flower.

If your ink could speak, what would it say?

If my ink could speak, it would say, “I’m the result of years of maturity, intricacy, and self-discovery.” Each geometric shape reflects my evolving thoughts, while the chrysanthemum at the center symbolizes love, loss, and remembrance. It would remind me that there’s beauty to be found in complexity, and that even indecision can lead to something meaningful. It would say, “This is who you are. Always changing, always blooming.”

What would you do with the $25,000?

As a commuting college student a year away from my bachelor’s, I’d first use a chunk to pay off student loans—exciting, I know! Next, I’d buy my first car, since sharing one with family won't be very sustainable once I start working in my field. However, with what is left (if anything) would definitely go towards more tattoos! I’d love to start a sleeve on my other arm soon, but unfortunately, adulting expenses have to take priority first and foremost.