Today we’d like to introduce you to Zane Watrous.
Hi Zane, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been an artist since I can remember. Same cliche, up-and-coming artist story. However, the older get, the more I realize everything in my life has lead up to where I’m at now. My shop, Wild Pony Tattoo was intended to be a blend of a classic, Traditional tattoo shop, mixed with the southwestern elements that are common to this region. I’ve always loved the Santa Fe, Pueblo architecture, the desert scenes in this place, the plants and animals around me. Being out in the desert, the mountains, or the ocean makes me feel at peace. In addition, I’ve been tattooing for 14 years. In 14 years I haven’t strayed away from my interest in traditional tattooing; specifically pre 1950s designs.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Maybe I’m oblivious to the actual challenges I face, but for me this whole thing has felt natural from the start. I feel like I’m just floating down the river and not fighting the current at all. I do believe that if you are in the right place, or on the right path, everything will fall into place. I’m right where I should be.
I guess in a more specific way, one challenge I have faced with tattooing is simply just the pursuit of perfection in the craft. There is always more to learn.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Like I mentioned, I’m a tattooer of 14 years. I’m interested in traditional tattooing, especially pre-1950s. I’m also a huge fan of what the tattooers in Spain and Italy are doing. I swear every time I find a tattooer I like, they are from those countries.
I like to blend all of that with my authentic and immediate influences here in the desert. Panoramic desert scenes, cacti, roadrunners, snakes. In addition, I love the romantic memory of this region from old west.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was born in Salt Lake City to some awesome parents. My dad was a fly fishing guide. We ended up moving to St George when I was 5 or so. We spent a lot of my childhood camping, hiking, and going to all the awesome National and state parks in The West. My love for the natural world was instilled in me at a very young age and is as much a part of me as my skin and bones.
Pricing:
- Pricing depends on the piece. Reach out to me and let’s talk.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @zanewatrous @wildponytattoo
