MODEL
D ES ERAI
B E RTRAND
by SAMANTHA BOIANI //
photography: NATE CREASEY
F
rom an early age I was interested in tattoos, spray
paints, and photography. My family has this
crazy creative side. I believe it’s in our blood; my
uncle was a tattoo artist in Vancouver, B.C. as well.
I really love painting and use it as a stress reliever. I
seem to completely zone out and go into a peaceful
place as soon as I’m into my project.
The majority of my tattoos are a collection I have
from artists I love dearly and call close friends. My
newest tattoo is by the beautiful Kim Marks at New
World Samurai in Canmore, Alberta. Under my
arm sits a woman’s face coming out of a conch shell
with waves for hair and a sail boat floating under
the sun. My favourite tattoo would have to be by
Julie Bauschardt, she works at Lucky Strike Tattoos
in Edmonton. I was ecstatic to get this cool
love potion bottle in my ditch. It remains
my favourite tattoo.
My octopus sleeve on my left arm
was completed by Andrew Graham.
Kyle Staub also recently finished off
my right arm with a realistic portrait
of a beautiful woman’s face. These
two own Honor Bound
Tattoos in Calgary. Not only are they
insanely talented, they are a huge
chapter in my life. I cannot thank
them enough for everything they
have taught me.
Managing a tattoo shop, you get the
perks of learning everything there
is to know about the culture and
business without ever picking up a
machine. Working for Honor Bound
Tattoos was an absolute honour; I
learned everything I know from these
guys. We opened in Calgary in 2013
with four award winning artists, and
they have grown immensely since
then.
For now, I’ll be putting a hold on
getting any more artwork done. I
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WESTCOASTINKMAG.COM
have said my goodbyes at Honor
Bound Tattoos and my daughter,
Chloe, and I have packed up to
head to the West Coast. I look
forward to the journey ahead.
Forever be, Team HB.