We would like to thank Quinlyn for donating designs used on the TATTOOED BY Q x LONELY COWBOY collaboration tee, available now (CLICK HERE). Because of her donation and desire to help the community, we are able to continue funding our Lonely Cowboy Scholarships - offered in high schools across the US, awarded to students interested in mental health education.
Quinlyn Richards Q+A:
#1 - Why do you believe taking care of your own mental health is important?
I could talk about this for hours but to sum it up as a simple analogy: when you fly in an airplane, the captain will instruct you to always put your oxygen mask on before assisting others. To put it simply, you need to help yourself before helping others. Making sure you have your own life under control before trying to fix anyone else’s so that both of you can survive. You wouldn’t be of any use to anyone if you’re dead.
#2 - What are some practices you do daily to make sure your mental health needs are being met?
It’s hard to be at 100 every day, but doing what you can is important. One thing for me personally is to see the sun. Get outside, even if it’s a small drive to the gas station or work. Listen to my music loud, eat good food, and try to stay active or busy. Having responsibilities- as much as they suck most of the time is very helpful. I mean, my cats would die without me… so they really keep me going.
#3 - What's one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Stop giving 100% of yourself to people who only give you 50%.
#4 - How do you think the education system could do better for mental health education?
Make it a subject in school just the same as math or English or science. Practicing mindfulness, teaching healthy coping mechanisms, understanding grief and anger, and healthy life habits.
#5 - What are stereotypes that aren’t true about heavily tattooed individuals?
It’s 2023… we’re all just trying to survive… our mortal shells should have no play in opinion- obviously. It’s just a way of expressing ourselves! The same way that someone paints their nails or cuts their hair, sounds cheesy but, doesn’t matter what’s on the outside. All that matters is our kindness and respect for other humans.
#6 - Give positive words of wisdom/encouragement directed to the next generation of tattoo artists/artists in general
Literally do whatever you want, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind. Also, find your niche! I’ve noticed I’m the happiest at work when my designs seem to be “fluid”. When it comes naturally to you and you feel like you don’t need any brain power to create is when you’ve found your style.
#7 - Do you believe tattoos need to have meaning?
Absolutely not. Tattoos are art, and art is subjective.
Follow Quinlyn on IG @tattooedbyq to see more of her work!