Always wanted to write for a magazine...

I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to do another “adventures in ink” piece for a while on this blog, and then two come along at once. Today it is my pleasure to share with you my interview with the lovely Amber Lynn, where we talk about her gorgeous tattoos, as well as touching on modelling and what influences this unique lady stylistically. I was first directed towards Amber Lynn when I saw a post crop up on tumblr. I’m always captivated by people with a lot of tattoo coverage on their body, and in Amber I saw someone who proudly rocked some exquisite work. Upon further investigation I saw many pictures over at her blog, and found out she had been worked on by the immense Aly Mayne. That’s all I needed, the combination of Amber Lynn’s incredible beauty and Aly Mayne’s ink work was awesome, and I had to get in touch for an interview. To my sheer delight I was granted this interview, and I have enjoyed every step of the journey to get this piece posted. It’s a thrill to share with you the words of a very interesting lady, and someone whose love of tattoos if infectious. I’m sure this will generate even more Amber Lynn fans, and I hope you enjoy what she has to say.

 

Q: Hi there Amber. It’s always exciting to have an international guest on my blog. How are you doing?

Amber: I am doing very well, thank you.

Q: I was first made aware of you via a post on my tumblr dashboard. A lot of people rave about your stunning tattoos, do they get you quite a lot of attention from random people like me?

Amber: They do, actually. I don’t think I have ever been anywhere since I’ve gotten tattoos that I have not been talked to about them.

Q: You have quite a lot of ink coverage on your body, would you say you’re a “work in progress” in terms of body art? Is there always another design you’re interested in getting?

Amber: Most definitely. I want to cover a lot more of my body like my feet, stomach, legs (possibly my back - but at a much later time). Right now I only know of one tattoo that I absolutely want to get. 

Q: Something that jumps out at me when looking at images of you is of course your stunning beauty, but also the vibrancy of your tattoos. There is a lot of colour involved in your designs, does this reflect your personality somewhat, or does it say more about your preferred style of tattoos/art?

A: When I first started getting into tattoos I was very into colour. I’m a natural redhead so being incredibly pale comes with the territory. Having coloured ink in my skin makes the colours very intense, and I do like that. Most recently I have been getting more into black and grey tattooing. I’ve been considering doing my other sleeve black and gray but maybe with coloured accents. I’m not certain right now.

On the other hand, my personality has always been really silly. I’m constantly laughing or being carefree in the sense that I don’t care at all what anyone thinks of my shenanigans! I suppose that could also go hand in hand with my tattoos being in colour.

Q: You’ve been lucky enough to have been tattooed by Aly Mayne, an artist that is slowly getting a lot of recognition in certain circles here in the UK, thanks to the wonders of the internet. Can you tell us a little about getting work done by Aly, and representing her art on your body every day?

A: First and foremost, Aly is such an amazing woman. Not only does she have an amazing portfolio of artwork that she’s done, but she’s also an incredible person to be around, being tattooed by her is always a fun experience for me.

I’m constantly being complimented on my tattoos, and carry around a ton of her business cards. It’s always nice to hear that my tattoos are well done, especially since I have them on my body for the rest of my life. Having an artist that’s good and a joy to be around is important in my book. 

Q: What is the experience like when Aly works on you? With so many intricate and colourful pieces, you must have spent many hours in the chair. How do you pass the time while you’re getting inked?

A: I started going to Aly as a client, I had seen her work on a few people. I had a photo of a carousel horse that I wanted tattooed on my thigh (Which is now beautifully plastered on my left leg!) I also needed my sleeve to be covered up and fixed (Aly didn’t originally start my arm). Over time, being tattooed for long periods, and seeing her on a regular basis - we ended up being friends! Like I said previously, Aly is an amazing woman, she’s hilarious and easy to talk to. 

Q: Do you think the pain or sensation of getting a new piece ever becomes second nature? Or does the level of pain/discomfort depend on what part of your body you’re getting something?

A: I would say that it DEFINITELY depends on the part of your body. Everyone is different when it comes to the “painful spots”. I would say that my ribs and my knee were the most painful. Some feel as though the chest is intense, but it was very easy for me.

Q: How old were you when you got your first tattoo, and could I ask what it was?

A: I was eighteen when I got my first tattoo. I’ve since added around it, but I originally got my chest script that says “Forever yours never again”.

Q: Can you remember where your interest in tattoos began? Did you admire anyone growing up who happened to have tattoos? Or is it more about expressing your personality and creative nature?

A: I was told as a little girl that I shouldn’t ever get a tattoo, and that they were for the “Freak show”. I didn’t begin to get a real interest until about eighth grade. Since then I have been in love.

Q: What comes first these days when deciding on a tattoo? Is it the design, or the placement?

A: I typically think of what I want and THEN I look for the perfect place.

Q: I know people ask about your tattoos all the time, so I won’t ask about every piece. But I really love the designs you have on your legs, and your two thigh pieces in particular. Could you tell us a little about each individual piece, and your decisions behind getting them?

A: I would say 100% that my legs are my absolutely favourite tattoos. The carousel horse on my left leg was sporadic. I have had horses my entire life, and the merry-go-round was my favourite ride as a child. I Googled “carousel horse” one day at work; found a photo and brought it into her. As for my cow, anyone who knows me knows how much I absolutely LOVE them. My love for cows has literally lasted my entire life, so I thought it would be fitting to put a calf on my opposing thigh.

Q: I’ve noticed you have kept your stomach and midriff relatively free from ink at the moment, is this a conscious decision, or are you just waiting for the right design? Is there anywhere you don’t think you’d get tattooed?

A: I absolutely want to tattoo my stomach. The only REAL reason I haven’t started on it just yet is because in the future I would like to have a child. I’m uncertain as to how the tattoo may shift, fall, or stretch. I don’t want to invest a lot of money into a beautiful stomach piece and have it ruined.

Q: Finally on tattoos, I would love to know your thoughts on the scene in general. It seems tattoos are becoming more and more accepted these days, do you have any idea why? What is your opinion on the reality TV shows centred around tattoo shops, do you think it’s a positive for the industry/art form?

A: Tattooing and tattoos have been around for, well FOREVER. It’s becoming a bit of a trend, which I don’t see a single problem with. I like to see that people of all ages are getting tattoos and really accepting the culture more and more.

As for the tattooing shows, I personally don’t watch them. I don’t know enough about them to form an opinion.

Q: As well as gorgeous tattoos, you have also made some incredible decision when it comes to piercings. Sorry to ask you to repeat what I’m sure you have before many times, but could you run us through your piercings briefly?

A: I have had a variety of piercings that I have now retired. Currently I have both nostrils, my septum (which I keep hidden), two eye dermals and one in the centre of my chest and finally both of my nipples. I’ve had both Monroe’s, and my cheeks that are now laid to rest.

Q: Looking at the photographs you share on your many social media sites, it’s evident that you have a very distinct and unique sense of style. Do you mind if I ask who or what influences you when it comes to fashion/hair and make-up? Do you have any style icons, or do you just wear what you like?

A: I actually get a lot of style ideas from Tumblr! There are so many photos of beautiful women circulating that website, that it’s hard not to admire them!

There is nobody specifically that I admire when it comes to clothing. I piece together whatever I feel looks cute for the most part.

Q: On a similar subject, I was wondering if we could talk about modelling. You’ve taken part in a number of photo shoots, and are obviously very photogenic. Is modelling a passion for you, or more of a hobby? I think your past work with Andre Chavez is breathtaking, and it’s plain to see you have a flair for being in front of camera. What are your views on the industry? Would you be more interested in the fashion side of things than the modelling? Creating, rather than just wearing?

A: I used to model more, but most recently I just do it for fun. I think it depends on what industry. Everyone has the idea that a “model” should be stick thin with no “body”. I personally think that if it conflicts with your food intake or eating habits, it’s just not for me. I like to model, when I am in the mood for it. I am not much help when it comes to styling or knowing what “looks good” or else I think I might enjoy “creating”.

Q: What else inspires you creatively, or what do you enjoy in your down time? Do you make it to many live gigs? I know you have a background in dance, but what else helps you express your creative energy these days?

A: I like to sew, and create new little things I can wear. I don’t feel as though I am incredibly creative, like I said before. But, I will typically take in shirts, or make T-Shirts into dresses and whatnot.

I haven’t been to a show in a while, I don’t even know if I could tell you the last band I saw.

I dance on my own time, typically in my bedroom whenever I have some extra energy. I do also have a fitness pole that I work out on. It can be dangerous sometimes hanging upside down on a pole, though!

Q: Are there any projects on the horizon that you’re particularly looking forward to? What plans are you making in terms of tattoos? Photo shoots? Family?

A: Nothing too wild. I plan on doing a few more photo shoots within the next few months. I have been considering making little things to sell, but like I said… nothing too wild! I want to tattoo my temple, and possibly my feet in the near future.

Q: Your blog and twitter are always a hive of activity. Do you enjoy being so visible online, and sharing your thoughts and feelings with people that are interested? Is it a good kind of “therapy”? Any messages for all those who follow you and read your output?

A: I do enjoy social networking. It was harder before, when I was primarily receiving nothing but hate mail from a lot of anonymous people. Now, I am really elated at the comments I get. There are so many girls I have been told that I “Inspire”. It’s incredible to me, because I truly don’t feel as though I do anything positive enough to be noticed. Though, I am VERY appreciative of everyone who takes the time to write me.

Finally, can we end the interview with Bernard Pivot’s questionnaire?

What is your favourite word? This is a funny question I have never been asked before. I would have to say “ridiculous” because I say it pretty frequently.

What is your least favourite word? This one is hard, I am not really sure.

What turns you on? I LOVE hands, I think they’re so intricate and beautiful.

What turns you off? Being objectified in public, ESPECIALLY by a man.

What sound or noise do you love? A running fan in the summer (Particularly during the night) is my all time favourite.

What sound or noise do you hate? The sound of scratching against those holographic notebooks etc. Absolutely makes my brain cringe. 

What is your favourite curse word? “Fuck” for sure.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Possibly an ultra-sound tech (I think that’s what they’re called).

What profession would you not like to do? Working with children, or anything that has to do with harming animals.

If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? “You realize you haven’t followed ANY of the rules, right?”

 

I have to say a massive thank you to Amber Lynn for taking the time to do this interview with me. She didn’t have to be so generous with her time, the fact that she was only goes to show what a kind individual she is. I really enjoyed asking her these questions, and getting a little insight into her relationship with the art of tattooing. I always follow her tumblr output closely, and have been delighted with images as well as examples of her fantastic personality. To find out more head on over to any one of these vibrant links below, and thanks very much for reading.

http://voxamberlynn.tumblr.com

http://twitter.com/voxamberlynn

http://www.facebook.com/voxamberlynn

All images were provided by Amber Lynn and used with her consent.