Tattoo Creepers: Ashley Love

Ashley Love from Salt Lake City, Utah customized the Black TUKskin 3-Buckle Pointed Creeper Boots in her style. To see more of her work head to her Instagram.

Tell me about yourself:

My name is Ashley Love. I’m from North Carolina, spent 5 years living in NYC & just hit my 5 year mark here in Salt Lake City. I enjoy being outdoors & love animals.

How long have you been tattooing for?

This spring will be 18 years in the tattoo industry.

What made you want to become a tattoo artist?

Art has been my biggest hobby since I was very young. As I entered my twenties, my interest in tattoos was growing as I was collecting more and more on my body. I naturally started drawing tattoo designs in my free time & before too long decided I needed to pursue an apprenticeship.

Why did you decide to customize the shoes the way you did?

I chose the bees & snowflake because they make me think of Salt Lake City. They are also just cute designs and I thought they would fit well in the space. I always enjoy tattooing birds and butterflies, so they were easy choices, and I chose the rope because I thought it would follow the front of the shoes well.

“Only Forever Tattoo” is the name of the tattoo shop I opened in Aug 2020, so that’s why I chose “only forever” for the heels.

How was working on this project for you?

It was new for me. I have painted on a few leather jackets before, but never shoes. I didn’t know what to expect and I think I was equally excited and intimidated.

Are you currently working on any other projects?

I’m always trying to create new artwork for the walls of our shop. Otherwise, I owe my best friend a painted jacket, and maybe this project will kick me into gear on that!

How long have you been an artist for?

I’ve been making art and taking classes in my free time since I was in grade school.

What’s your favorite tattoo that you have and why?

I would probably say my back piece. I have the classic Duel in the Sun done by Brad Stevens. He’s an amazing artist and really easy to be around, even when you are in pain ☺️

How were you keeping busy during quarantine?

I am always complaining that I don’t have enough time for creating flash sheets to hang at work, so I cleaned up my art area at home and got to work! I would spend all of my normal work days in my art room, drawing, painting & listening to podcasts. Aside from the obvious stresses, I really enjoyed the time.