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Hamburg-based illustrator and tattoo artist Ines Hassler, better known as Frau Ines lives by her creative talent, bravery, and her local artists community.

"Creative exchange, contacts as well as the sense of community of the scene are extremely crucial to me, and have had a significant impact on my career," says Ines. The scene that is in Hamburg is a creative hub managed by Ines as well as her local artist's collective: Hey Du Hey Du, which is their art shop and Ines's tattoo studio. Also, Live Art Club, their "cheerful fresh, cheerful" drawing classes. "I wouldn't be where I am today if I weren't open to the opportunities that Hamburg and its people could give me in the past few years," Ines says.

Active artist from an early age, Ines studied a variety of artistic professions throughout her college years, before finally settling upon what seemed to be the right choice to her: designing. "But after just a few years in the world of agencies," she says, "I discovered the fact that I was more devoted to the work I did outside of my work hours and less to working with big brands and clients. That's why at one point I took the decision to start my own business and work full time as an artist."

Find out more about the way Ines is able to balance her diverse projects, how the feedback of customers influences her design decisions, and the way she communicates her company's image.

Utilizing creative diversity as a motivator

"The diversity in my daily life keeps me energized and creative," she says. "The most difficult thing for me is to be doing exactly the same thing over and over again. I enjoy switching back and forth between various tasks, working with various individuals, and working towards the same objectives. So, my job always seems like a pastime."

"But of course it is frequently challenging," she acknowledges, "especially in times of pandemic or when several deadlines from different parties come together. This can be really stress-inducing and often excessive. Here it is for me to figure out an equilibrium."

"In the end, however it is the self-realization that never fails to prevail," Ines adds. "Sometimes it's still crazy that I'm able to call what I do a job. However, for me it's not only a job, it's passion."