How Do I Start Working At A Shop?
I've been a full time freelance graphic designer and illustrator for 12+ years. It's been my main source of income the entire time, garnering a vast portfolio spanning from industry giants like Levi's, to your local hardcore band your co-worker plays in. I love my job and I love being self employed, but I'd like to supplement my free time with a new experience as I just moved to NYC. As a person who enjoys being tattooed, I think I could make a great go at working in a shop, and even starting to tattoo with time!
What is expected if I wanted to approach a shop? Are apprenticeships and the front desk roll offered to friends/curious clients first? Or do people off the street walk in and say "Hey, I'd like to learn, are you hiring?"
I have an extensive illustration portfolio and a well trained eye for design and composition, so I know I'm covered in the artistic department, but I have nothing to show for working in the tattoo industry otherwise.
I would love to be the guy who checks people in, preps the tables and stations, and talks to clientele. I'm extremely outgoing and personal and overall, think being in a shop and eventually moving on to tattooing would be a really fun experience!
Additional context, I have frequented a shop nearby a handful of times over the years and the artist I go to, him and I are on generally friendly terms? We follow each other on IG, and even though we don't talk outside of our tattooing transactions, I do think he'd be a great person to approach given he owns his shop and we're familiar with one another to a degree to where he knows I'm a personable artist. I respect him by miles!!
Any help or pointers would be great! Thank you in advance!
(Also if you're in NYC, hit me up ahah)