C.J. Rued

12 years tattooing in Vegas, now roaming full-time. Art’s all I know—so I made bad decisions permanent and somehow pay rent with it.

Currently 37th

in their Group
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You decide who will appear in Artforum Magazine, take home $25,000, and display their work at The Art of Elysium's Salon!

Voting for the Top 20 ends Thursday the 14th of May at 7PM PDT

What is The People's Artist?

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What is your favorite type of art to create?

love creating tattoos because it feels like leaving a permanent mark on someone’s story—something meaningful they carry forever. There’s a trust in that process that pushes me to give everything I’ve got creatively and technically. Tattooing lets me blend art with connection, turning ideas, emotions, and experiences into something real on skin. Dark style tattoos hit even deeper for me. They let me explore contrast, depth, and intensity in a way that feels raw and honest.

Where do you find inspiration?

A huge part of what fuels my creativity comes from the things I immerse myself in outside of tattooing—especially horror films and visual storytelling. There’s something about the atmosphere, tension, and emotion in horror that sticks with me. It’s not just about being scary; it’s about mood, contrast, and how far you can push an idea visually while still making it feel grounded.

What would you do with $25,000?

If I had $25,000, I wouldn’t blow it on short-term things or spoil my kid—I’d use it to build a stronger future for both of us. As a single father, everything I do is about stability and growth, not quick gratification. I’d invest that money directly into my traveling tattoo career—upgrading equipment, locking in booths at major conventions, and covering travel so I can get my work in front of bigger audiences. I’d also put some into marketing to grow my reach and bring in higher-quality clients

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