We had the good fortune of connecting with Vincent “Vinnie” Rodriguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vincent “Vinnie”, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a career in art cuz I loved it! I didn’t even think I was good at it! But I knew I had passion for it! And my Nana (Grandmother) who was like my mom would love when I drew her things! She was dying of cancer and the last thing she told me was to promise her that I would do something with my art! And I take great pride in saying I kept my promise!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The style of tattooing I specialize in is Mexican American Traditional! My style has the fundamentals of tattooing at its heart! I also enjoy creating art related to my Aztec/Mexica culture, it’s what I enjoy creating most! I’ve came a long way to get where I’m at today. It was never easy but my passion always outweighed my stress! I lost everything and got it back so many times but I never gave up! I’m on a mission to show my kids and anyone else that you can do whatever you put your mind to! As cliché as that sounds haha it’s what I believe and instill in my kids! And as far as my brand goes my logo means a lot to me! It is an Aztec symbol called OLLIN- it’s an expression of immense depth that conveys intense and immediate movement. Stemming from the ancient Nahuatl language, Ollin is derived from “yollotl,” meaning heart, and “yolistli,” meaning life! Ollin means to Move and act now with all your heart!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I don’t really get out much but Zios Pizza in Mesa is the spot for pizza for sure! Los Patos mexican food on McKellips and Mesa Dr! And I always advise anyone coming to visit to come get tattooed at High Noon Tattoo! Haha

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my shout out to my family that supported me and believed in me from the gate! To my uncle Joey for introducing me to art! To my kids that keep me motivated every single day and are my biggest fans! And I appreciate all the support I’ve gotten from every single person that’s bought a piece of art, a tattoo, a cord, or some merch!

Instagram: @tattoovinnie
Facebook: Vincent Rodriguez
Yelp: High Noon Tattoo

Image Credits
Kyle Barry

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