Today we’d like to introduce you to Randy Keener.
Hi Randy, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
As a kid, my mom inspired me to pick up art as I would see her work on pictures. Soon enough, it ignited an inferno and it continued on throughout my adolescent years whether it was within an art class or not it was a part of me.
Fast forward through high school and working towards my Associate’s degree in design the art of tattooing became a focus of interest being Polynesian it just felt natural to dive into this realm wholeheartedly without any doubt. A newlywed and child on the way it was now or never so it was time to buckle down and give it one hundred percent and see where this goes.
That was 19 years ago, this October, and after continued efforts throughout the past 15 years building my craft, I felt it was time to put forth my vision and name it after my mom from where the inspiration began as a kid and with two locations in Jacksonville Florida, Valei Arts Tattoo Studio continues to push forward into the future.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As smooth as it needed to be, adversity always finds a way to pave the path no matter the terrain. Some of the struggles let’s see being young newlyweds trying to make ends meet entering an industry that pretty much at the time had a closed-door policy.
As an artist we all have struggles within on how to portray your art, is it good enough, is it what people want, or is it what the industry wants, etc. Relationships are tough because you’re pouring so much into this craft feelings are left wayside and for many depression could be an issue that can affect every aspect of your life not only tattooing or art. Information wasn’t abundant as it is today with social media and even just having the internet, one had to wait for magazines to come out or get out there and travel to conventions to see what’s out there.
You can see everything now online through a stream it’s crazy the contrast from then until now. There are many struggles along the way, so I’d be hesitant to believe anybody that says it’s been a smooth road, that is if you’re really dedicated to this art.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a tattoo artist painter, I specialize in fine lines vibrant colors, and smooth black and gray. I’d say, I’m known for Polynesian style tattoos being that I am Afakasi (half Samoan), I focused a lot of my energy early on that art form, which is being that it is my culture. I would say I’m most proud of having a solid sense of integrity not only through work but just as an individual in life and as a father from which my children can learn.
No matter how big or small the job at hand I’m going to give you 120% of my efforts to ensure the job is up to my expectations.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My parents for instilling work ethic and determination within me and my siblings, my mother for inspiring the artist within. Brothers and sisters for keeping me in line with loved ones and friends close at heart that has believed in my art before this tattooing career!
My children for the unquestionable drive and undeniable support! Numerous artists, I’ve had the pleasure of working with side by side pushing, learning, and continually growing alike celebrating another’s success over the years. Mentors for giving me that first opportunity and supporters from the first year up until now with their kids getting work.
Our crew at Valei Arts Tattoo is growing as I write this. The city of Jacksonville has become home over the past 36 years.
Pricing:
- $120 an hour for custom tattoos with a $100 deposit
- Coverups are $150 an hour
- Paintings and original art/prints from $20 and up
- Commission canvas art from $200
- Aftercare products from $5 – $25
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Valeiartstattoo.com
- Instagram: valei_arts_tattoo_studio
- Facebook: Fb/me. @valeiartstattoostudio
