My Name is Erik Betanzos and I am a certified tattoo artist based in Yonkers, NY. I have been tattooing for 8 years and am constantly learning and becoming better. Hygiene is a huge factor in my work and I put it above all else. I take appointments and my rate is determined piece by piece. Email: [email protected]
Picking up a needle at the age of 22, Erik A. Betanzos has been tattooing f
or 8 years. He started drawing, painting, and creating art at a very young age and has been doing so ever since.
“When I’m drawing I put myself into the drawing, the goal is to create something that is unique to each customer”
He received his first tattoo at the age of 18 and started an apprenticeship in Lupitas Tattoos in 2004. His love for the art was clear to him on the second day of his apprenticeship when he created his first tattoo. Six months after his apprenticeship he started tattooing, showing significant ability and tremendous potential. Erik has done over 1000 tattoos and the majority of his customers persistently return to him for more work. His clientele span all over New York and continue to grow constantly. Work experience includes Lupitas Tattoos, Street Ink Tattooz and La Tinta Tattoos.
“Its not like any other art that you can just hang on a wall, or put on a corner just to look at every now and then. That’s why it has to be done perfectly.”
Erik often turns to tattooing himself to gain a better knowledge on the art form.
“I put myself in the customers’ position. I want to feel how much I hurt them, and if there is anything I can do to lessen it.”
Erik will be tattooing until he can no longer hold the machine.
“Being a tattoo artist means a lot to me, knowing that people are interested in my work motivates me to get better every time. Unfortunately this industry is getting too commercialized. Kids are now doing it just to have one, not knowing about hygiene or having a clue about what art really is. If you are doing this for the money you will not get as far as if you are doing it with your heart.”
Body art is a skill that takes years of dedication, practice, and passion to perfect and Erik has all these qualities.
“I am an artist foremost and I feel that is what separates me from everyone else”
