Melina Mansing, The Tattoo Artist Behind Handpushed
When did you get your first tattoo, and what inspired you to start Handpushed?
I remember it being very cold, snowing in fact. I was wearing a Fall TNA jacket with no gloves and probably some ripped jeans. I was just of age, 18 - went to a place that no longer exists anymore, in Mississauga, Ontario. They were having an event for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, so I lined up for hours with a friend. What did I get? My last name, yup. Classic millennial tattoo, figured it couldn't go out of style right? It's definitely covered up now and no one will ever see it again.
I have always had the itch to work alone, be my own boss, etc etc. At that time in my life (about 6 years ago) tattooing was the only practice I thought I could accomplish that with... and I guess it stuck! I still have much to learn!
What inspires your tattoo designs, and how long does it usually take to complete one?
I love color, I want more color in my life and unfortunately, I'm no fashionista so instead of incorporating color into my wardrobe, it goes into my art instead. I like the idea of freedom and fun, with a touch of whimsical. Tattoos don't have to be so meaningful, live a little!
My tattoo appointments run usually no longer than 2 hours. I like to stay efficient and time conscious, so my clients are walking into a studio that is ready to go for them. You won't ever find me just ending a previous appointment or having you wait.
What is something unexpected you encountered as you grew your business?
I never expected to be where I am today. At the same time, I am nowhere where I'd like to be (virgo problems) but I adore and appreciate the support that I have received. I never thought I'd be in the educational route of tattooing, this was definitely unexpected but I figured people are going to try to tattoo anyways, might as well teach them how to do it a bit more safely right?!
What are some misconceptions about tattoos and the tattoo creation process?
There are many. Many. Many. The ease of social media these days and the quick jump to comments, puts me in a constant world of trying to alter those misconceptions. Tattooing has such a different structure than most careers. Everyone is taught differently - taught with different rules and with different mentalities and unfortunately that leads to a lot of incorrect information as well as, not enough! Ultimately you just gotta keep doing you and hope for the best. I would like to say that tattooing is more than just art. Unfortunately, it's viewed as something that can just be done for fun but a lot of people miss the understanding of health and safety and the human body. This is more important than the design itself, you must know the skin, you must know the health risks, you must know how to keep you and your client safe and clean. □
