Hands On To Wellness: Sarah Van Deren

In the latest edition of the Spotlight we will be looking to better our bodies and minds with Sarah Van Deren.

  I have known Sarah for about as long as I have been Tattooing, 

she is both funny and versatile in all sorts of situations. Whether there is late night hard boiled tom foolery afoot, fence hopping hip bruising going about, or just a Sunday BBQ in the making; Sarah slides onto the scene smoother than John Candy in Cool Runnings!!

The first time I had tattooed her was also the first time I heard her use a certain expletive word to express her inner anguish, a good day for everyone. Needless to say she sat like a champ and my friendship with Sarah and her family (Hey Bryon!) was solidified.

     I can easily tell you all that Sarah is a dependable and hard working young woman, but what really stands out to me is that she cares not only for her profession BUT for her clients as well. She is the type of person that is going to put in the long hours to ensure perfection, provide customers with quality over quantity, and above all Sarah will continuously strive for improvement within her craft to better the experience and service for others.I am happy to know her and I look forward to whats to develop with Magnificent Massage and Bodywork

Q and A with Sarah:

Q: So tell us your name and what it is you do?

A: I'm Sarah Van Deren, and I am a Licensed Massage Practitioner, and business owner. I absolutely love doing massage, business management not so much but it is worth it to work for myself, and work with other LMP's who love what we do. 

Q: Could you give us a description of what exactly massage is?

A: Massage is working with the body, specifically soft tissue like muscles, fascia, tendons and ligaments, to relax your body and mind. Massage can be nice and relaxing, or it can be deep and intense to help with serious muscle tension and injuries that cause pain and discomfort.

Q: How did you get started in that industry? What was it that 

peaked your interest?

A: I got started going to massage school when I turned 18, I quit high school because I wanted to be in college and actually do something with my life rather than waste my time with high school drama, looking back it wasn't that smart but the only thing not getting my high school diploma stopped me from doing was getting a job at petsmart while I was in massage school. I was actually doing my senior project on Massage Therapy, and became extremely interested in massage through researching and talking to massage practitioners in the field. My whole family supported my decision, because who doesn't want a massage therapist in the family. 

Q: Do you feel that massage can be beneficial to a persons life?

A: Massage can be beneficial to everyone. Massage is so simple and yet complex it can be adjusted to fit any one with almost any condition. Generally massage relaxes and soothes stress. But it can also help recovery from healed injuries and surgeries. Muscles and joints need to be moved and stretched to stay healthy, Massage does that. Most people today work at computers and have constant tension in their muscle from being in one position for long amounts of time, what do you do when you get up from the computer? Move, stretch and roll your shoulders to get rid of that cramped feeling right? Massage lets your muscles relax while stretching and moving them around to increase flexibility and circulation. If you don't do the right amount of physical activity and stretching daily, you muscles aren't moving enough to be at peak performance.

Q: What are some of your favorite types of massage to do and why?

A: I would say Swedish massage is my favorite modality just because of the versatility, I can do a soft, flowing massage with the same strokes I can use to do a deep tissue/ injury relief massage treatment. 

Q: Tell us about your business Magnificent Massage. How did it get started and how has it been so far?

A: I have been planning on opening my own business since I finished Massage school. I started in 2010 independently contracting with chiropractic offices and day spas, then moved into mobile massage to start building up my own clientele and services. Then out of the blue one of my clients, Barry, who was a business owner already, decided he wants to help me and another LMP, Aja, get together and start a business. How could I say no? Two months later we had our grand opening in August 2013. It was a rough start but thanks to help from family and friends we got going. Opening day we had just barely finished setting up before our first clients walked in the door. Unfortunately in September, Aja decided to pursue other career options and left me to run the business by myself. But now 6 months in it is going great, we are steadily building clientele, I have hired 3 other LMP's to work here in the Spa and one to do chair massage in some businesses we are contracted with. 

Q: Do you enjoy the area and clientele which you service?

A: I enjoy working in Puyallup, it’s close to home. I do enjoy working with the clientele here, who are all people who love massage and the benefits that follow.

Q: What are some of the things which your company offers that you are excited about?

A: Well we offer massage, which is our main service, but we have recently added spa treatments to our menu, which I love! We do Facials, Waxing, Body Scrubs, and Body wraps now to complement massage. Soon I hope to add mobile massage to our offered services, I believe getting a massage in your own home is the most beneficial way to go, not only are you comfortable surrounded with whatever you want, you don't have to get up and drive home. I don't have to worry about my clients getting up off the table in a relaxed state, a bit dazed, or sleepy to go drive home. On top of that, traffic causes stress and puts the tension back in your body, ruining all my hard work.



Q: Do you plan to be there a while?

A: Well the lease is for 5 years so yes I plan on being here for at least 5 years.



Q: As a Tattoo Artist I have been interested in massage, could you tell me some of the reasons why I should consider it?

A: Ha! You should consider massage!

As a Tattoo artist you should definitely consider massage. I have met quite a few tattoo artists that don't think massage is worth it at a professional level. I believe the reason is because you are used to permanency i.e tattoos, and a massage doesn't last forever. Your muscles don't stay relaxed after a massage permanently, like brushing your teeth, if you only do it once or when it gets really bad, it only helps temporarily until you change your habits.  

 I have seen that way most artists hunch over drawing or tattooing skin for hours on end,   having bad posture for long periods of time will stress your muscles and cause tension which in turn causes painful sore muscles. You may not feel it as much now since your young, your muscles heal faster, and you can ignore it easier. But as you get older it compounds on its self through the years and your muscles get set in their ways and all of the stress and tension becomes a normal state of being, making injuries more likely to happen and easier to evolve into serious issues.

Q: Have you yourself benefited from receiving massage?

A: Oh definitely. Since starting massage school, I have been more aware of my body and muscle tension. For the first few years of practicing, I was not very good at getting a regular massage. but as the years go on and I notice more and more how stress and bad posture affect me, I now get a massage at least once a month if not 2-3 times.

Q: What are some common misconceptions about massage? Can you clear those up for us?

A: Well there are many, but there are a few main ones:

 First off, female LMP's can do deep tissue massage just as well as male LMP's can. Strength or body size has little impact on deep tissue massage, it’s more leverage than strength, and knowing how to work and react to the muscles.

"No Pain No Gain" or the "Deeper the Better" is not true. If it hurts too much you can be causing serious injury as well as completely defeating the point of "relaxing" your muscles. Yes in some cases more pressure may help release the muscles better, and it may be a bit painful, but it all depends on your pain tolerance, and the way you body reacts to it.

Women don't have to apologize for not shaving their legs, we work on mens legs and they never shave so don't worry about it, we couldn't care less if you have shaved or unshaven legs. 

Q: Tell us about some of your inspirations within massage? And what types if things you do to continually progress within your field?

A: My biggest inspiration for massage is my clients, I love watching them progressively get better and better with every visit. and throughout our sessions I am constantly evaluating my work and figuring out the areas I need to focus on to get better and more effectively help people. Working with other LMP's and learning what they do differently than myself and apply it to my work or taking classes on the subjects.

Q: What are the best ways for new clients to reach you?

A: The best way to reach me is through the spa, calling and leaving a message. we don't have a receptionist so leave a message and I will call you back asap.

To contact Sarah and book your next massage, please follow the 

links below:

Phone: (253)268-3763

magnificentmassageandbodywork@gmail.com

www.mymagnificentmassage.com

facebook.com/MagnificentMassageAndBodywork

10217 144th st e

Puyallup, WA 98374

Hard Work and Positivity: Brett Herman

This installment of the Spotlight is geared to inspire and will be aimed at California based artist Brett Herman. 

  I actually stumbled upon Brett's work a while back while browsing the internet, one link led to another then BOOM there it was. The moments flew by as I found myself engaged by the cleanliness and solidity of the tattoos and art pieces on screen, one after another like a barrage of creativity! Just as I was about to shut down my laptop the word "Submissions" caught my eye... but for what?? So I took a second look and there it was! CALLING ALL ARTISTS! Submissions for an upcoming creation dubbed "The Coloring Book Project". As I continued to read I knew that I HAD to send some drawings in but more importantly I became inspired! Now I had a deadline, more work to do, a change of pace, all because of another artists ambition and willingness to do MORE. Personally I feel the daily challenges of tattooing and artwork keep me reaching farther in my craft; taking part in and making the cut for the "CBP" installments has further humbled me and helped in raising the bar for my own goal setting and artistic growth. 

  Thus far, Brett has put out two editions of "The Coloring Book Project", taken part in several art showings, and in many ways demonstrated what effort and drive can do. Through the interactions I have had with him I've found that he's a chill guy who's working hard, enjoying life, and putting out rad works of art! Someday soon I'll make my way down to his neck of the woods to get a fresh tattoo, but in the meantime lets all just keep our eyes peeled and continue to take part in whatever projects this dude puts forth; I'm sure that they'll be fun!

Q and A with Brett:

Q: Let's start by telling everyone who you are, what you do, and where you work.

A: Hi my name is Brett Herman I'm an illustrative tattoo artist and aspiring painter in Los Angeles California. I co-own Hidden Los Angeles in West Hills, California.

Q: How long have you been involved in tattooing and artistry? What was it that got you started with both?

A: I've been tattooing since 2008 and creating art as early as elementary school. The Herman side of my family is creative in many unique ways, so I've been doing hands on stuff for as long as I can remember.

Q: Tell us some of the things that keep you hungry and interested in what you do? 

A: I'm a tattoo artist and painter, which means I'm learning everyday! I continue to be inspired on the daily, as a tattoo artist I feel my work is never done and that I will never really be 100% satisfied with my artistic career. Maybe one day, when I can view it as a whole, when I'm really old I'll be able to appreciate my growth as a artist. I love to tattoo and I love painting both with a undying passion. It's not even "hunger" it's really a lifestyle! I work my ass off but it's not work in my eyes! So even knocking things off of my to do list is inspiring, I'm inspired and honored to be asked to do this interview. To know that my art has affected others enough to appreciate this! Im really interested in every form of art, I get so many feelings from music, art, nature, others, life, being at home with my family watching movies etc etc...Literally everywhere... I see beauty in everything. I think Art is emotion. 

Q: Elaborate a bit more on that last question by telling us why you feel it is important to remain active and interested?

A: As a tattoo artist and witnessing this firsthand, it is so important to not lose sight of how amazing it is to have a job that allows you to create for a living. If you tattoo and you are not inspired, I suggest you do your customers a solid and find your spark to ensure your trustful clients they get your best. Every artist has had a uninspired moment in their life or a creative block. My remedy is always just taking a deep breath, forgetting about all your responsibilities to your clients and getting back to the basics. What drives me artistically is the amount of artists pushing the limits and growing as a community. I'm so thankful that I know so many creative individuals. It's hard to not be inspired being around so much great art! Everyday is a new day for growth and experimentation, a day to start where you left off, to reflect on lessons, and mostly what makes your art "your art"!

  For me, it's just browsing a few of my favorite artists websites, books, listening to mellow creative music, browsing IG and finding an idea without really looking at any one thing in particular, almost like I'm flipping thru a mental file cabinet of things I've learned and things i'd like to see created and just letting it all out.

Q: About Hidden L.A.: how did it all come together and when/why was it started?

A: I tattoo at and co-own Hidden Los Angeles with Chris Velasquez and Richard Carniglia, we set out to open in 2012 and did so, actually to get out of an uninspiring environment! Our main focus is having a drama free place where we can all create, devoid from the typical tattoo shop stereotypes of politics and the outside world. We host art shows every 3 months with different themes, group shows, solo exhibits and workshops! We have also had some guest tattoo artists coming through, the shop is an open floor plan which allows us to vibe and create together as well as mingle with everyone! It's a fun vibe with lots to look at, for sure!

Q: Would you say that your studio promotes artistic growth within yourself as well as the other artists you work with? How so?

A: Always!!! Most of all we vibe on each other, helping to precedent a new level of creativity. We are lucky to be growing as a shop just from word of mouth and by reaching out to other artists for all the fun projects we always have going on!  We just had Randy Randerson and Gunnar guest spot the last month and my good buddy Chet Zar has a oil painting workshop this weekend. As for futures guests: Taylor Cort, Shawn Booth and Turk will be spotting soon. So lots of great artists coming through with styles all over the board. Having all the guys at the shop and all the guests it makes it especially easy to pick up some inspiration and growth as well as a few tricks along the way. We also do the art shows and the last few have been really successful, the fresh prints group show was such a success that we decided to make it a annual event  since everyone buys lots of prints at our shows. Then the most recent was the Stephen King Show which was a fun themed show equipped with one hell of a Halloween costume party and opening reception. It's hard to sell original art so we're def still pegging a spot in the fine art world.

  We are working hard but feeding off of all the positive feedback were receiving. We truly appreciate you helping us by spreading the word and welcome any artists interested in making a trip out or being involved with our art shows!

Q: Do you feel it is important to give back to this one of a kind industry? Tell us about some of the things that you and your studio have done to do so?

A: Giving back is a huge part of our responsibility as humans in my opinion, if every person in the world made one small change to better this world, this world would be a totally different place! As for us in the short 2 years, we have thus far donated a share of our proceeds from the print show to the "Free Art for Abused Children Foundation" and took on a monthly donation to help a small family on Africa through the "World Vision Organization". I believe strongly in giving back as well as doing good as a person. As for the industry I'm also trying to give back by spreading the word about great artists through the gallery and the book projects I've been doing.

Q: Have there been any projects in particular that stand out to you?

A: Well the coloring book project I started 2 years back on top of opening Hidden Los Angeles. Being in lots of art shows and getting married was the the first edition of the Coloring Book Project, so 2012 was busy to say the least and 2013 was even crazier! Hahah

  The coloring book project stands out the most besides random art shows and stuff. The coloring book is a spin on the old traditional coloring books equipped with activities and packed with most awesome imagery! Been a honor to have my idea turned into such a fun project and to have it be a success, we are on the 2nd edition already and have been doing contests for the project to keep people involved.  The project has really allowed me to connect with amazing artists worldwide and allotted me a chance to meet some very amazing and unique individuals. I am so thankful to have the support of memento publishing and all of my family and friends inside and out of the artist community.

Q: Though we haven't met, our interactions lead me to believe that your a pretty humble dude! Could you share some of the things that keep you this way? 

A: Thanks! I really try to be approachable, I feel like we practice that everyday fulfilling peoples tattoo needs. 

I just kinda adapted a positive vibe early on. I try to be respectful and not act like I'm better than anyone even though I have a cool job/lifestyle, I don't have tatt-itude as Aaron Della Vedova put it to me once!

I'm not better than the next guy because I know there is always someone out there that is better than me, I'm just trying to focus on my goals as an artist and be a nice guy! It's what keeps my clients coming back and makes me feel genuine towards others. 

Q: Who are the artists or people in general that have inspired you along the way? 

A: Danggg this list could be mega long ahahah I like so many styles so I'll try to name a few from a few diff styles! Obviously the artists I've already mentioned Chet Zar, Gunnar, Della Vedova, Steve Moore, Grime, Shige, Adam Miller, James Tex, Turk, Mike Devries, Jeremy Geddis, Nikko, Jonathon Montalvo, Johnny Domus Mesquita, Craola, Curtis Burgess, Timmy B, Mike Moses, the guys I work with, Seth Wood, Geordie Cole, Jeff Gogue, Paul Dobleman, Nick Baxter, the Kern brothers, all the people I know that are involved in what we do at the shop.

It's too many to list honestly I'm missin so many!!. I love organic, traditional, new school, oils, acrylic, mixed media, basically I like everything that you can use to create art haha!! If you really want to follow a lot of good artists, that's all I follow on Instagram, like 750 artists hahah.

Q: Finally, What are some of the exciting things your working on for 2014?!

A: This year I'm definitely focused on my own art, I've made it a personal goal to finish all the paintings I've started and do a design for myself every week to continue developing my style as a artist. The shop will have 4 shows, including a solo show, the fresh prints show, 100 and under show and a Star Wars themed show at the end of the year, I am also working with my brother on an App for the iPad and iPhone dropping mid 2014. As well as a few really interesting products to better the functionality of the tattoo process, it's a busy year with those projects but I'm really looking forward showing everyone the new stuff we've been working on! 

I meant to start off this question by saying this will be a mellow year, I'm sure I'll be in even more shows with a even longer list of to do's! but I guess that's just a look into my life, wouldn't haven't any other way! Keep up with my website www.artofbrettherman.com or IG-brettherman for all the exciting upcoming news! I'm so thankful to be a part of the tattoo industry and art world and appreciate the chance to express a few of my views and all the things happening in my life! 

Thanks and remember life's a garden... Dig it!!

For more one of a kind artwork or to get in touch with Brett just follow the info and links below:

www.ArtofBrettHerman.com

www.Hidden-LA.com

IG-brettherman

IG-hiddenlosangeles

IG-thecoloringbookproject

Hidden Los Angeles

24372 Vanowen St. #203

West Hills CA. 91307

747.888.3539