Today we’d like to introduce you to Cici Li
Hi Cici, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey began in a field far from tattooing—I worked in the tech industry. For over a decade, I followed the traditional career path, but the high demands eventually led to burnout. That’s when I decided to pursue tattooing, a passion I had always admired but never explored professionally.
Growing up, I was drawn to art, I was trained in calligraphy and Chinese painting from a young age, but I had assumed it couldn’t be a practical career. Everything changed when I began a traditional apprenticeship at a bustling street shop in Hangzhou, China four years ago, where I learned the craft from the ground up.
Today, I combine my creative roots with the art of storytelling, a skill I honed during my time as a journalist [for The New York Times in Beijing]. Each tattoo is a collaboration with my clients—a meaningful piece that reflects their journey. For me, tattooing isn’t just about creating art; it’s about building connections and embracing a career that truly reflects who I am.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s true for most major changes in life. Transitioning from a stable career in tech to tattooing came with its fair share of uncertainty. It took me over a year to share my career change with my immediate family—some of whom may still not fully understand the culture of tattoos—but I’ve always believed that actions speak louder than words.
The apprenticeship itself was intense—I started from the ground up, learning the fundamentals while navigating the pressure to prove myself in an entirely new field. Setting yourself up for success during times of change is crucial, whether it’s financially, mentally, or professionally. I found that the skills I developed as a journalist and communicator played a significant role in enabling my growth and success in tattooing.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Returning to Salt Lake City after over a decade away meant starting fresh—building an entirely new client base and reintroducing myself as a tattoo artist. It required a lot of groundwork, from connecting with the local community to showcasing my style and helping people understand what sets my work apart. I really appreciate everyone who has supported my return, including the shop owners of Nowhere Tattoo (where I currently tattoo) and the owners of Echelon Tattoo. The entire main street in Midvale has been revamped into an art-focused community, and it’s a hidden gem that I encourage everyone to check out.
One of the most exciting parts of my practice has been translating cultural motifs and symbols from Asian traditions, particularly those rooted in Chinese art and history, into designs that resonate with clients here in Utah.
Traditional Chinese patterns, for example, carry centuries of meaning and can be found on imperial porcelains and textiles. Motifs like koi fish, which symbolize perseverance, or peonies, which represent bravery, hold profound significance. I’m excited to open my books for larger projects this year, including Japanese-inspired sleeves and full-back pieces. It’s about finding the balance between honoring these motifs’ cultural heritages and creating works that feel authentic and meaningful to myself and the people here. That process has helped me connect with clients in a deeper way and grow as both an artist and a storyteller.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My name in Chinese, 思齐 (sī qí), translates to “keep up with the worthy” or “strive to emulate the virtuous.” It’s a Confucian philosophy that I carry deeply in both my personal and professional life. Twice a year, I return to China to learn from some of the best tattoo artists in the industry overseas, immersing myself in their techniques and cultural artistry. For me, it’s about always chasing growth, staying inspired, and continuously refining my craft. This mindset keeps me motivated and ensures that I’m always bringing something meaningful and authentic to my clients.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inkgenecici/
