915 Tattoo Fiesta celebrates El Paso culture through ink
EL PASO, Texas – For some people, choosing a tattoo can be a difficult decision. For others, the answer is as simple as putting a piece of El Paso on their skin.
That was the case for Ray Wise, who is preparing to leave El Paso after six years at Fort Bliss.
“This time around, I’m actually getting a 915 tattoo,” Wise said. “My time here is finite with El Paso. I’m going to be leaving here soon.”
Wise said his time in El Paso has given him plenty of memories, from food and experiences to the people he has met.
“So many great memories, food experiences, people, so might as well allow it to leave its mark on me,” he said.
Wise got a tattoo during the 915 Tattoo Fiesta, a celebration of El Paso culture, creativity and community held downtown Sunday.
For Wise, deciding what to get was easy. The answer was the 915.
“She did fantastic,” Wise said of his tattoo artist.
For other attendees, the decision wasn't quite as simple.
“I’m stuck between this one,” Kyleen Salais said while considering tattoo designs.
That is where tattoo artists come in, helping clients decide on designs that are more than just visually appealing.
“It’s not just, you know, hey, it’s going to look amazing on you, but also what is what is the inner soul tell you?” After Ten tattoo apprentice Raeley King said.
Those conversations between artists and clients are part of what artists say makes the event special.
“Us as artists will definitely take care of you. We’ll definitely ensure that you feel like family. Like this is your home,” King said.
The 915 Tattoo Fiesta was held in honor of 915 Day, bringing together tattoo artists, local businesses and community members for a daylong celebration in Downtown El Paso.
The event featured a tattoo flash crawl with local tattoo artists and studios, local vendors, live music, DJs, live art, food, merchandise and a Lowrider/Vicla Show & Shine.
Organizers said the event was designed to showcase El Paso’s unique culture while supporting local creatives, small businesses and community connections.
For Wise, the celebration also offered a way to take a piece of El Paso with him when he leaves.
“Fortunately, with my fiancée, I get to take a piece of El Paso with me,” Wise said. “And again, thanks to Karen, I get to have a piece on my body now.”
