Interview With Kelly Manning

I love this small chicken wishbone I did in a dotwork and realism style, I like how tattoos can sit on the body, redefine it and jump out of it at the same time.

- Pitanjal Dutta

1) Your favorite tattoo design you have inked....

Ans) I love this small chicken wishbone I did in a dotwork and realism style, I like how tattoos can sit on the body, redefine it and jump out of it at the same time. I enjoy the possibilities of dotwork. I quite enjoy mixing styles and pushing my limits. To do this you need friends who will let you experiment on them. I am a portrait painter and have done quite a few pet portraits which I really enjoy. I enjoy all styles, for me its about bring the character out.

2) Tell us about the inking procedure.

Ans) I take quite a bit of pride in my set up and a lot of care with infection control. Once I have prepared my tattoo station, applied my stencil and am ready to go.Each tattoo is different and there are many aspects to consider before starting the tattoo. I attempt to make my client as comfortable as possible and ask some questions. I always explain what I am doing before I do it, I image myself when I received my first tattoo at age 21 wondering what they are doing and if it is safe. Once my client is relaxed I take a deep breath and get into my creative zone.

3) If someone gets a permanent tattoo and wants to change it after some time what do you generally do the procedure?

Ans) I am always up selling when I tattoo. I can’t help it. If I am tattooing my own design or adding to an existing design, I am always creating idea on how to grow the original or add to a collection the client may have.

5) A word of motivation to all aspiring Tattoo Artists.