Davis ‘Pencil Fingerz’ Graham - Artist / Tattooist
First, tell us your name, where you’re from, and where you currently live.
My name is Davis Graham and I’m from Chilliwack, British Columbia – which is where I still live today.
At what point did you first realize visual art and tattooing were part of your path? What was that experience like for you?
I always knew I was going to be a visual artist for as long as I can remember. I started drawing as a hobby when I was six years old - and haven’t stopped since. Tattooing, however, came a lot later in life - it wasn’t something I was out looking for, it just kind of found me. I was doing an art show in Vancouver when my mentor stumbled upon my booth and asked me if I wanted to give tattooing a shot – which was great because I had no idea how I was going to survive out in Vancouver - but it was an easy decision to at least give it a shot. That was six years ago and now I have my own studio here in Chilliwack.
How has staying true to your own vision contributed to your journey? Have there been any downsides to doing so?
I would say that staying true to my own vision has kept me grounded, even if it may have slowed the journey down – it’s made it a lot more enjoyable as I make my way. Plus, the highs of achieving things on my own make it all more worth it.
What are some of the influences that continue to drive your purpose and creative direction?
A lot of the influences that drive my vision are the musicians I’ve grown up listening to, as well as other visual artists who have no limits to their creativity.
What is your greatest joy in being an Artist and Tattooist?
The greatest joy about being an artist is that I get to work when I want, wherever I want, and for however much I want (within reason) – that’s why I’m able to work in my backyard and spend as much time with my family as possible.
Are there any fears or challenges that arise when creating something that becomes part of another person permanently?
The fears and challenges of tattooing somebody grow smaller the more you prepare for each and every tattoo. If I’m getting a tattoo with any amount of doubt or fear, then that means I didn’t prepare enough for that piece - I was always taught to do everything I can to make my life easier.
What is your process like when working with someone, and are there any variables that contribute to the clarity of the final piece or the energy behind what you create?
When it comes to tattooing someone, my process is very laid-back. I enjoy working with each client and a lot of times I like to work from a place where trust is at the forefront so I’m able to relax when creating their piece. I try to make my studio as calm and inviting as possible so that people feel safe and relaxed while we’re working - and there’s no rush to head out the door.
The people who come to you for your art and tattoos — what do they mean to you?
There was an ongoing joke at the studio I worked at that all my clients were so nice. I thought it was pretty cool to be the artist that had the friendliest clients, which I think just means I’m receiving what I’m putting out. Also, it means a lot to me that people would trust me tattooing their loved ones on them or other important pieces.
What inspires you to get out of bed each day?
My family inspires me to get out of bed each day, especially my two-year old son who usually jumps on me in the morning and pulls me out of bed at 5 or 6am.
When you’re not actively creating or tattooing, how do you spend your time?
If I’m not actively creating or tattooing, I’m usually spending time with my family. I have two boys that are very young and require as much of my attention as possible, and that’s just the season I’m in right now - and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
What’s coming up next for you?
Up next, I’m working to become a full-time painter and a part-time tattoo artist instead of a part-time painter and full-time tattoo artist. I find the most joy in spending my time alone and painting on a canvas when it comes to creating, so I am working to make that my main source of income.
Is there anything else you’d like to share — upcoming projects, guest spots, releases, or anything else on the horizon?
Right now, I have a mural at the end of the month for the new ‘Old Yale’ renovation, and I’m working on a lot of personal projects, instead of spending all my time building up other peoples’ dreams like I’ve done for the majority of my life.
Thank you for sharing your time. We look forward to all that is to come from you.
Connect with Davis: Pencilfingerz.land