Tattoo artist and mom of two talks gender roles and stereotypes, taking us behind the scenes of the life of Gigiebear.
As women continue to break barriers and disable labels, there is no shortage of inspiring individuals for us to #motherlust over. We reached out to Gigie Santiago aka Gigiebear to share her experience as a working mother, the dynamics that work for her family, and overall squashing the patriarchy.
How did you start your career as a tattoo artist? Can you tell us a little bit about your story?
I’ve actually been interested in tattooing since college, but I was really scared to try it because I was so afraid of fucking it up, and the permanence of doing it on someone. I only had the courage to try when my husband taught me the basics and let me practice on him.
When I started out, I was working as a graphic designer. But as we all know, being one in this country is very stressful, and the compensation I was getting was just not enough. I then got pregnant and realized I needed to strive to do something to be able to support our family more.
I got my chance when I was invited to work with 55tinta, and I took the leap. Aside from earning more and actually enjoying my work, I grew as an artist in this field and got to spend as much time as I wanted with my family, especially my kids.
I have always had a personal studio on the side but it took me five years before I opened up a proper studio in a commercial space.
Were there any challenges along the way? How did you overcome them?
Of course! My dad is an accountant, and he was really against everything when I was starting out. But I proved to him that working as a tattoo artist was more fulfilling for me, and I think he quickly saw that too. Since he retired from the office, he now works for me— my dad handles all the paperwork I need for the studio. Hehe
Did you experience any discrimination in this line of work for being a woman?
Yes, but only with people who question my abilities as an artist. Some people assume I can’t do certain designs because I’m a woman. Which is not the case— we just all have different specialties.
I am very proud to say that we now have a very strong line of women tattooers. They are women that can deliver so much more. You just need to do your research and go to the right one that fits the style you wanna get.
You work in a male dominated field and you are also the breadwinner in your family. That’s dope as hell. Was this a tough conversation to have with your family?
I think this is an accepted fact in our family, but I can’t take all the credit! I wouldn’t be able to do all of this without a supportive husband. We have come to terms with the separate responsibilities we have to make it work, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
How do you view gender roles and the stereotypical idea of mothers?
There should be no gender roles! Women should not be restricted by what they can or can’t do. I have always been aware of this, because I grew up with my mom just being at home. Being a housewife is very hard, too, but that was her choice.
Can you share the contrast between your household now to the one you grew up in?
It is very, very different. We spend a lot more time with our kids now compared to my parents. We only ever leave if I have a client, and if I finish working early, we can go home.
I mean, my mom was always there, but there was a big age gap and she came from the province. I think it was harder for her to relate with the stuff that we do. My dad was always at work, so there were times that we didn’t see each other. Either I had already left for school in the morning or was already asleep when he came home.
What message would you like to share with other mothers out there who might consider pursuing a passion?
Don’t be scared! Be confident and just trust the process. Everything will fall into place at the right time. Just make sure to do everything with love and passion.
All images courtesy of Gigie via her Instagram
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