Meet Kelly Ann Pyszkiewicz

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kelly Ann Pyszkiewicz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kelly Ann, how do you think about risk?
In any industry, risks are inevitable. Over the past six years as a tattoo artist, I’ve learned to diversify my income by exploring various art mediums, from selling oil paintings and custom framework to engraving guns for my fiancé. Tattooing is highly seasonal and sensitive to economic downturns, such as the current “tattoo recession.” Diversifying has allowed me to navigate slow periods with ease. Investing in marketing, like my billboard in Boise, Idaho, is a gamble, but it can drive higher bookings and boost brand recognition. Embracing these risks and uncertainties has made me more open to uncertainty for the rewards of independence and creative control—core desires for tattoo artists. As an artist, you never stop learning; every setback paves the way for growth and improvement.

What should our readers know about your business?
Getting to where I am today hasn’t been a straightforward path especially starting to tattoo during Covid in Los Angeles, CA. It was filled with challenges—learning the craft, building a client base, and establishing my brand in a competitive industry all while staying underground during the covid shutdowns in LA to starting over again in South Beach Miami. I started with a lot of self-education especially from 10 Masters courses, practicing relentlessly, and seeking mentorship from experienced artists. There were setbacks, like initial rejections or slow periods, but I viewed them as opportunities to learn and grow.

Persistence was key. I learned to embrace feedback during my apprenticeship, stay adaptable, and never stop learning new skills. Networking within the industry and engaging with the community (ex. attending gun shows and passing out cards to every gun person with tattoos) helped me gain exposure and credibility. Patience and resilience have been my greatest lessons—success doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication, it becomes a reality.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m biased because I’ve been living in South Beach Miami.. def love our beach – its the best in the world honestly. Wynwood is growing on me for 1800 lucky every Sunday funday as well as the infamous Club Space. The best DJ’s in the world all play there and I have had the fondest marathons myself there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My fiancé – Desmond Browning – for getting me my first machine and connecting me with a good shop for my apprenticeship.
My stepfather.
My therapist the past 4 years…

Website: https://machinegunkellyann.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/machinegunkellyanntattoo

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/kpyszkiewicz

Image Credits
Desmond Browning