Ink & Influence: The Artistic Journey of Naty by Nature
Tattoo artistry is more than ink on skin—it's a fusion of culture, creativity, and personal expression. For Naty, her journey from henna artist to tattooist is a testament to passion, perseverance, and an evolving artistic vision. “I have been doing henna professionally for 10+ years and 4-5 years in, the daydreams about doing body art permanently started,” Naty shares. Growing up in Queens, NY, surrounded by diverse cultures, her work beautifully blends traditional henna designs with botanical and geometric elements, creating tattoos that feel both timeless and contemporary. Notably, her work has adorned notable figures such as NBA strategist Emma Cerquera, recording artist Iniko, and recording artist Jidenna.
Henna / Jagua on Iniko
Her path began over a decade ago with henna art, where clients’ encouragement ignited her desire to explore permanent body art. “I was too shy to speak it out loud at first, but clients started affirming that I should be tattooing,” she recalls. During 2020, she challenged herself to create more refined designs, incorporating fine-art techniques. This transformative period advanced her technical skills, leading to an apprenticeship that turned her passion into a career. “You must not let the hazing and demeaning aspects of an apprenticeship deter you from your vision,” Naty advises, emphasizing perseverance and humility.
Henna / Jagua on Jidenna
Naty’s signature style is a captivating blend of jewelry-like designs, sacred geometry, and floral elements, carefully crafted to complement the body’s natural curves. “I love achieving symmetry and complimenting the body’s natural curves,” she explains. Her creative process begins with conceptual sketches, often inspired by henna traditions, which she refines using both hand-drawing and digital tools like ProCreate. Among her proudest moments are those when her art helps clients reclaim confidence, such as covering scars with intricate, empowering designs. “It was her first tattoo, and she said it liberated her after hiding her leg for 10 years!”
Community work
Community involvement is integral to Naty’s journey. As a donor to Support Creativity, she champions mentorship and financial support for young artists. Her collaborations with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Ronald McDonald Charity House showcase the therapeutic potential of body art. Additionally, her henna services have been featured in corporate diversity and inclusion events, promoting cultural appreciation. “Partnering up with other creatives and creative moments is inspiring and grows community,” Naty notes.
Tattoo
Staying inspired by evolving tattoo techniques, Naty admires whip shading, embroidered effects, and dimensional designs. “My mind is constantly blown, and I can’t name them all,” she says. Her artistic growth is fueled by continuous practice, drawing inspiration from mentors and exploring trends on platforms like Instagram. Looking ahead, Naty aspires to create larger, more intricate tattoos, expanding her artistic repertoire while balancing personal well-being and professional ambition. “The key is to balance mental, physical wellbeing alongside professional obligations and goals. Make lists and avoid burnout. The goal is longevity, not a short burst.”
Decorative Henna / Jagua
For those considering a career in tattooing, Naty’s advice is clear: “Make sure that drawing and painting are a part of your practice before tattooing so that you develop muscle memory and manual skills that will translate into tattooing as well.” Learning from experienced artists accelerates growth, while regular practice builds foundational skills essential for tattooing. Ultimately, passion, dedication, and consistency are the keys to success in this demanding yet rewarding field.
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