Inker Featured Artist: Sherri Austria

1. Where are you from, and what first drew you to tattooing?

I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to Los Angeles in 2013 without a definite plan. I've always believed in a balance of letting things happen and making things happen. That mindset eventually led me to tattooing. Beyond the art itself, there's something fulfilling about becoming part of someone's story, marking a milestone, or creating something they'll carry for life.

2. How did you get your start, and what was the hardest part of becoming an artist?

I was getting tattooed back in the Philippines when my artist had LA Ink playing. Seeing Kat Von D as the only female artist on the show sparked my curiosity. It was something I hadn't really considered before.

The hardest part? The internal battles. Self-doubt, procrastination, imposter syndrome. They don't necessarily disappear. You just learn not to let them win.

3. How would you describe your style to someone discovering your work for the first time?

Versatile and collaborative. I've never wanted to limit myself to one style because tattooing isn't just about my artistic preferences. It's also about the person wearing the work.

I gravitate toward realism, both black and gray and color, from microrealism to large-scale pieces. I also enjoy the fluidity of watercolor, the precision of fine line, and conceptual work combining realism with geometric elements. Filipino tribal and ornamental designs are especially meaningful to me because they connect me to my roots.

4. What helped you develop the style you're known for today?

I started my apprenticeship at a street shop in Venice Beach. Working with people from different backgrounds and taking on a wide range of projects taught me to be adaptable. That experience shaped my versatility and gave me a broader perspective on art and tattooing.

5. Outside of tattooing, what influences your work?

Music, sports, photography, travel, and the people I meet along the way. Music influences my sense of rhythm and flow. Sports taught me discipline, consistency, and collaboration. Travel and photography broaden how I observe people, cultures, and environments. All of those experiences influence how I approach both art and business.

6. Choose one tattoo you're especially proud of. What's the story behind it?

A Filipina and Bakunawa thigh piece I designed for a longtime client. She trusted the concept completely, without requesting a single change.

It was my first large-scale color piece, and I wanted to challenge myself while representing my heritage. With so many established tattoo traditions out there, I wanted to contribute something rooted in Filipino culture and mythology. It became a defining piece for me.

7. Has a client or a particular tattoo changed the way you think about your work?

I think every client leaves me with something. Tattooing creates space for conversations you might never otherwise have. You learn about people's experiences, perspectives, and lives. Those exchanges constantly challenge and reshape how I see things, both as an artist and as a person.

8. What does the experience of getting tattooed by you look like, from the first conversation to the finished piece?

I never want it to feel purely transactional. Someone is trusting me to permanently alter their body, and I don't take that lightly. I value communication, collaboration, and making people feel comfortable throughout the process. It's professional, but relaxed and personal. A lot of clients eventually become friends.

9. What kinds of projects would you love to have more clients come to you for?

Anything with intention and a story behind it. I love the intricacy of small tattoos and microrealism, but I equally enjoy ambitious, large-scale projects. I'm always open to ideas that challenge me creatively.

10. What's something about you that people wouldn't learn from your Instagram?

I'm a big foodie. I also enjoy painting, photography, sports, and exploring different creative mediums. Tattooing is a big part of my life, but it's definitely not my only interest.

11. What are you working toward next, creatively or personally?

Continued growth. Refining my craft, exploring new mediums, challenging my own limitations, and staying curious. I don't think there's ever a point where you stop learning.

12. Where can people find you, and what's the best way to book with you?

You can find my work and submit booking inquiries through www.sherriaustria.com.

I'm currently tattooing at Mad Rabbit Studios until its closure on November 17. I'll be sharing my next location soon and keeping all booked clients updated directly.