He Wanted to Be a “Lifer”… Now He’s an Artist — Tattoo Artist Banks

In this episode I sit down with Tattoo Artist Banks, a black & grey realism tattoo artist with 18+ years of experience, to talk about his real journey into tattooing — the struggles, mistakes, lessons, and how art completely changed his life. Banks grew up in Northeast Los Angeles and admits he was the “trouble kid.” Skipping school, getting into fights, drinking, and heading down a dangerous path, he never planned on becoming an artist. Tattooing started simply because he couldn’t afford tattoos — so he bought a machine and practiced on himself. With no apprenticeship and no social media to help promote his work, he had to learn everything the hard way. Eventually the craft gave him purpose. Tattooing helped him leave alcohol behind, focus on his future, and build a life for his family. Now he specializes in black & grey realism and cultural/Chicano style work, and his goal is to create a legacy he can pass down to his kids — who are already learning the craft themselves. We also talk about: • Starting tattooing with zero guidance • Learning equipment, needles, and shading techniques • Building clientele before social media existed • Why mindset matters more than talent • Teaching the next generation of artists • How tattooing can literally save your life This is a real conversation about growth, art, and redemption. If you enjoy tattoo culture, artist stories, and honest interviews — you’ll enjoy this one. 👍 Like & Subscribe for more artist interviews 📩 Comment who I should interview next follow Banks on IG: lunadiosatattoos follow us on IG: blazted.network