Today we’d like to introduce you to Hope Hickman.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always been into art. As a young kid I was always drawing, painting, sculpting, creating. Every margin in my school book and open space on our church bulletin was a mini canvas. As I got older and was introduced to the art form of Tattoos I knew that was a medium I wanted to learn. Having permanent art as a way of expression spoke to me. I started getting Tattooed when I turned 18, watching the process fascinated me. In my collecting of tattoos I was very excited to have a shop open near me. I met Matt Morren at Electric Rodeo Tattoo in 2021. I knew he was the artist to design my sleeve when I came across a recent tattoo he had done of “Mrs Piggle-Wiggle,” a childhood favorite of mine. I began getting Tattooed by Matt in 2021, later that same year he tragically passed. His best friend and fellow artist at the shop offered to finish the sleeve on his behalf. And that is how I met Texas Bob. In our sessions of tattooing, we talked about my desire to be a true tattoo artist and he offered to take a look at my portfolio. Once I mustered up the courage to finally go in, he offered me my Apprenticeship. I started in April of 2022, finished in May 2024 and I’ve been tattooing alongside Texas Bob for the last 2 years. I feel so blessed and honored to get to be a part of such a great community of artists.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well, learning any new skill has its own set of challenges. Getting into the tattoo world can be challenging as is. I had gone into a few shops prior to ERT(Electric Rodeo Tattoo). But not every shop is offering apprenticeships, or likes being asked if they are! I think being persistent, positive and teachable have helped me along the way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a tattoo artist, I love bringing people’s visions to life!
I don’t specialize in anything in particular, i enjoy the whole range of styles. I do however enjoy the challenge of cover-ups and I love when all the colors come into play.
My tattoos are known for their solid lines and having a little fun and whimsy to them. If we can make it a pun, sign me up. I love when the clients are okay being a little silly. Art doesn’t always have to be serious.
I’ve got a few sleeves in the works that I’m very proud of and can’t wait to be able to display when finished. But can I say im proud of me lol because achieving a childhood dream makes me pretty proud.
I can only say I strive to be a welcoming, kind, open, artist to every client I meet. Your ideas should be met with grace and i love being able to work with clients to achieve a tattoo that makes them feel heard and be proud to wear our creation loudly.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love that Austin welcomes all! There’s something for everyone.
Its growth, the skylines seem to loom over what was once sunny open and airy walk ways. And that they took down the giant mushroom sculpture off town lake. I miss those lol
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeless.inked?igsi=MmQyczR5Y2gybG02
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19MsX2UG3b/
Image Credits
Sarah Manitzas
