‘Ink Master: Rivals’ exclusive: Erik Siuda on judges, rivalry and Jason Clay Dunn win
Since the very beginning there was no doubt that Erik Siuda was going to end up in the finale of “Ink Master: Rivals” this season. He has the drive, the competitive spirit and more then that he has the talent.
We were very excited to interview Erik about his time on the show and he has some great insight when it came to Jason Clay Dunn’s win, the “Ink Master” environment and which judge he felt gave him the best advice.
CarterMatt: What was your favorite challenge this season?
Erik Siuda: I enjoyed the challenge of being able to sell myself to a client, and having them put their faith and trust in me as an artist. I had to convince a “tattooed virgin” and having them feel comfortable enough to let me give them their first tattoo.
Was the ‘Ink Master’ environment as stressful as it looks?
Yes! Absolutely. Its tremendous pressure from your peers, the judges, the clients, ALL eyes on you all the time. Fortunately I can handle the stress and pressure and I never let it affect my tattooing.
Did you find the judges critiques helpful and who gave the best advice?
Yes, helpful indeed. I feel Chris Nunez gave me the best advice “Do what you know how to do”.
How challenging was it to tattoo in a style you’re not as familiar with for your master canvas?
It wasn’t that I was not familiar with it, it’s just not a style I do on a daily basis. I’m comfortable tattooing in any style. I feel that this didn’t really allow me to give the public a good viewing of what I do best.
Were you surprised by Jason Clay Dunn’s win over you or Cleen Rock One?
I think America was surprised by Jason’s win considering his performance all season. Especially because of the caliber of work Cleen and I were accustomed to showing consistently throughout the show. I feel there was an unfair advantage regarding America’s vote, because he had been on previous seasons and already had a popular following. In no way am I bitter, I am happy for him and wish him the best. He’s a great tattooer and I have a lot of respect for him.
What is your rivalry with Don Peddicord like now that the show is over?
The rivalry has been settled since the end of the show and is non existent. Our beef has been squashed!
If clients want to book you for a tattoo, what’s the best way for them to get in touch with you?
If anyone would like to get in touch with me or make an appointment, please email me at [email protected]. I’m currently tattooing out of two shops in NY, and will be traveling throughout the country this year as part of Villain Arts Tattoo Conventions. Make sure to follow me on Facebook for the most up to date information.
Asylum Tattoo Studio (Hustlers Parlor in Williamsburg): 143 N4th Street & Bedford Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11211 (718.302.3443)
Alchemy Tattoo Arts:2545 North Jerusalem Road, East Meadow, NY, 11554 (516.783.7300)
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A special thanks for Erik for taking the time to chat with us! We are sure that he’s very busy after such a successful run on the show and will be in high demand in 2015. So if you haven’t had a chance to book him for an appointment – you really should.
If you missed the news, “Ink Master: Rivals” contestant Emily Elegado, won our CarterMatt 2014 Best Reality Star of the year category as voted by you, our readers. Check it out over at the link here.
If you are looking for more news on “Ink Master” then head over to the link here where you can check out previews, reviews, interviews with eliminated artists (Caroline Evans, Elton “LT” Duarte, Jayvo Scott, Tim Lees, Ryan Eternal, Robbie Ripoll, Ty’Esha Reels, Angel Bauta, Julia Carlson, Emily Elegado, Joshua Hibbard, Don Peddicord, Aaron Is, and Cris Element) and podcasts all about the show.