We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Clavijo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, how do you define success?
I personally define success as feeling fulfilled with your current place in life. Whatever makes someone feel fulfilled will vary from person to person, whether that be money, fame, social impact.

Being productive and working towards my goals is what fulfills me the most.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m most excited about expanding the skills I have for each tattoo style I aim to pursue. The tattoo studio I work at gave me an apprenticeship when I first started, and I worked my way up to be manager at SkinBlu. I’ve only been tattooing for over half a year, so I still have a ways to go. In this industry, it’s important to be an advocate for yourself. It’s common for a new artist to sell themselves short. That was definitely me at the very beginning. Overtime I have learned to value myself as a creative. Other people will see that too and react positively to that.

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 would plan the trip mostly around food. One of the best places I’ve discovered recently is called Trad Room in Bedstuy, Brooklyn. They have incredible sushi and other Japanese plates. For a casual night out I’d go to Yuca Bar in front of Tompkins Sq. Park, Manhattan. Great music, dancing, and drinks. Smoking outside during a nice day is the best. For the complete New York experience I’d go to Central Park and enjoy a nice blunt there.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a shoutout to my work family at SkinBlu tattoo studio, located in Brooklyn, NY. My bosses John and Yi gave me a chance at starting my tattoo career, and I will be forever grateful. Every member at the shop is super talented and deserve recognition.

Instagram: mariaclavijoart

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