Allow me to introduce my self...

Greetings Speakeasy family, My name is Sunny Elyse! I am thrilled to introduce myself as the newest Speakeasy Tattoo LA collective member, serving as the current resident apprentice. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Scott and the rest of the staff. The knowledge and experience I've gained in this short time have been invaluable in my journey towards becoming a professional tattoo artist.

A few things about me- I hail from La Puente, California, and I have lived there my whole life. I draw much of my inspiration from things in my local community, such as live music and rollerskating. I feel that being a SoCal native has deeply influenced the way I move and create. I love our local beaches and parks and enjoy being outside in nature as much as possible. I've been making art for as long as I can remember. The feminine divine is a common theme in many of my pieces.

Anyway, one thing I look forward to executing in my tattoo journey is creating butterfly/moth designs. Although a staple tattoo people often ask for, the butterfly is uniquely representative of growth, change, and even rebirth to an extent. It's a concept that I can relate to, and I am very passionate about. Either way, I look forward to making all visions come to life. I am beyond excited to begin and share my journey with you all. Here's to many more posts. I will keep you updated on the latest things I learn every week!

xx Sunny

Inked Journey: The Close of a Transformative Chapter

As the sun sets on this remarkable chapter of my life, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey my tattoo apprenticeship has been. Tucked away in the buzzing hum of tattoo machines and the myriad of vibrant inks, I've found a mentorship that has shaped me indelibly.

Under the expert guidance of Scott Glazier, I've not only honed my craft to a technical precision I once dreamed of, but I've also found a sanctuary in the mental focus that comes with the territory of tattooing. The process of creation, from the first concept to the final masterpiece, has become a spiritual practice that sharpens both the mind and the skill.

This past year has been a pilgrimage through the depths of artistry in which the knowledge I’ve gained has become my most treasured possession. To say that it has been invaluable would merely scratch the surface of its impact on my personal and professional growth.

There's a bittersweet tang to the realization that this phase is coming to a close. I'm eternally grateful for Scott's unwavering patience, for his relentless pursuit of excellence that kept pushing me to dig deeper, to reach further, and to practice ceaselessly. The studio walls have seen my struggles and my triumphs, echoing back every heartbeat of progress.

As I lay down my apprentice gloves, my heart is heavy with the end of daily tutelage, yet it is soaring with gratitude. Gratitude for every drop of wisdom bestowed upon me, for every challenge that has steeled my resolve, and for every small victory that paved the pathway to this very moment.

Looking towards the horizon, excitement bubbles within me as I anticipate the future. The art of tattooing is a never-ending journey, and I am eager to embark on the next leg, carrying with me every lesson etched into my being by this experience.

To my mentor, a profound thank you. To my peers, camaraderie and respect. And to the art itself, a promise to uphold its integrity with every line and shade I lay down.

As I step forth with an artist’s spirit, I invite the mysteries of the future to unfold, promising to approach every canvas—be it skin or otherwise—with the dedication and passion that this apprenticeship has instilled in me.

And so, with eyes alight and needle poised, I bid farewell to this apprenticeship, not as an end, but as a bright beginning to the beautiful tapestry of my career in tattooing.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. The best is yet to come.

Hell yeah,

Peter Hernandez

Parlor Room; A Rich History

Hello Speakeasy Tattoo Readers!

It’s been a long week of rain, with more expected next week, but looks like we’ll have a sunny weekend to enjoy. Hope you all enjoy this little break and get some sun and outdoors while you can! 

This week’s blog I will be diving into the history of a parlor room.

The term "parlor" has a rich and varied history, with meanings that have evolved over time. The word itself often invokes images of elegance, conversation, and socializing. In its historical context, the parlor was a room in a home where guests were received and entertained. It was a space designed for relaxation and social interaction, often adorned with comfortable furnishings and decorative elements.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the parlor was a central feature of many middle-class homes, serving as a place for formal gatherings, musical performances, and meaningful conversations. This was a time when social etiquette and formal visiting customs were prominent, and the parlor was a reflection of these cultural norms.

The parlor also held symbolic significance as a representation of a family's status and hospitality. It was a space where the household could showcase their taste, refinement, and financial means. The furnishings, artwork, and overall design of the parlor conveyed a message about the family's social standing and values.

As societal norms shifted and architectural designs evolved, the role of the parlor changed. In contemporary contexts, the term "parlor" is often associated with specific types of businesses, such as beauty parlors, tattoo parlors, and ice cream parlors. These establishments retain a sense of conviviality and social interaction, albeit in more specialized settings.

In the context of beauty parlors, the term denotes a place of grooming, self-care, and personal expression. Clients visit beauty parlors to receive various services, such as hair styling, manicures, pedicures, and facials. These spaces often cultivate an atmosphere of relaxation and camaraderie, allowing clients to unwind while enhancing their appearance.

Tattoo parlors, on the other hand, are venues for artistic expression and body transformation. They provide a space for individuals to receive permanent or temporary body art, often in a setting that encourages open communication between the client and the artist. The term "parlor" in this context suggests a creative and collaborative environment where ideas are exchanged and translated into unique, personalized designs.

Ice cream parlors harken back to the social aspects of the traditional parlor, offering a place for people to gather, indulge in sweet treats, and engage in lighthearted conversations. The word "parlor" in this context evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era when socializing over a scoop of ice cream was a cherished pastime.

In a broader sense, the concept of the parlor endures as a symbol of hospitality, community, and shared experiences. Whether in a domestic setting or within commercial enterprises, the term "parlor" carries connotations of conviviality, comfort, and human connection. It embodies the idea of a welcoming space where people come together to enjoy each other's company and engage in meaningful interactions.

The evolution of the parlor reflects changes in social dynamics, cultural values, and architectural trends. From its origins as a formal reception room to its modern-day associations with diverse businesses, the concept of the parlor continues to resonate with themes of sociability, aesthetics, and personal engagement.

In conclusion, the term "parlor" encompasses a spectrum of meanings that span centuries and cultural contexts. It embodies the essence of hospitality, social ritual, and communal bonding, resonating through history as a symbol of human connection and conviviality. Whether in a Victorian-era home, a contemporary beauty parlor, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, or a tattoo shop the parlor remains a testament to the enduring desire for shared experiences and meaningful interactions.

Until next time my fellow apes,

Peter Hernandez