Founding story April 2022 - Gato Tattoo Piercing Studio
One in five adults in Germany has a tattoo, and most of them have more than one. Tattoos are an expression of personality and Juan Pablo Rojas Gutierrez is a passionate tattoo artist. Even as a schoolboy, he built his own machine and used it to beautify the forearms of his classmates. They called him Gato back then. That's the name of his company today: Gato Tattoo Piercing Studio, which opened in July 2021.
Born in Colombia and emigrated to Spain as a young adult, Juan Pablo Rojas Gutierrez has now found his home in Hanover. Together with his partner Ana, the cosmopolitan artist ensures that Hanover gets extraordinary tattoos and piercings. Pablo sees himself as an artist who masters a wide variety of styles. He has learned this over the past ten years as a professional tattoo artist all over Europe. He and Ana are also qualified piercers.
Juan Pablo, what is special about your style?
That I don't have a style. I'm not committed to one direction, I do what I like. Back in Spain, I started as a trainee in a studio and was only responsible for the pictures. I painted and drew, gave advice and created templates. Then I dared to do my first real tattoos. That's how I got to know all the different styles.
Who is your target group?
My oldest customer is 86 years old. And I'm always happy when she comes to my studio. On average, my customers are between 20 and 35 years old, and more than half of them are women. They usually come with very specific ideas because they have seen something on social media that they would like to have. It's different for customers in their 50s; they usually only have a rough idea. We then develop the motif together. Incidentally, fine lettering is currently in vogue.
How much does a tattoo cost?
From 60 euros upwards. The fee depends on the effort, time and detail. It also depends on how many different needles I need. If the tattoo takes longer, all the needles have to be replaced regularly as they will eventually become blunt. There are currently new regulations for inks that the scene is allowed to use. They are more expensive, which is also reflected in the price. Apart from the fact that not all shades of color are available yet.
How did the idea of setting up your own business in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic come about?
It all started with Corona. Because I couldn't work as a tattoo artist during the lockdown anyway. I actually just wanted to get advice from hannoverimpuls. But after the first consultation, I was hooked and my fears were gradually allayed. You can now see the result at Klagesmarkt. Incidentally, the counter comes from Spain. I couldn't find anyone in Germany who could build it the way I wanted it. That's the good thing about being at home everywhere. Corona still annoyed us. We had to keep postponing our opening.
What are your tips for other founders?
Obtain lots of information. Have courage and be determined. You have to be patient, because in Germany everything is still sent by post. Every step should be planned precisely, you have to work with foresight. And don't go crazy if one month goes really well and the next not at all. Don't give up and hold on to your dream. Persistence and a thick head pay off. And don't be afraid of language barriers. You will always find people who will help you.
Contact details:
Am Klagesmarkt 20
30159 Hanover
Phone: 0511 / 67914940
Juan Pablo Rojas Gutierrez on the cooperation with hannoverimpuls:
We didn't come to the first interview with high expectations. We didn't expect it to be the way it was. Our consultant even speaks a little Spanish, which made communication easier and more relaxed right from the start. He was on hand to answer all our questions and was with us every step of the way. We can only say thank you for that!
Daniel Marhenke, Project Manager Start-up and Entrepreneurship at hannoverimpuls, on the collaboration with Juan Pablo:
It has become a very professional studio with an intercultural set-up. Pablo and Ana complement each other perfectly and ensure satisfied customers. An exciting project that fits in perfectly with the times.