The Future of Piercings: Andy Sellin

About the Creative:

Andy Sellin is a piercer based in Thousand Oaks who has loved the craft of body modifications since they were little. She is currently a piercing apprentice at “3 Fates Body Piercing,” and is about to finish her apprenticeship. Andy states, “I was always interested in the modification industry since I was younger…[because] I love the individuality and the multiple paths you can go down.” This creative drive sums up who Andy is as a creative. They are client-focused and willing to try unique visions inspired by a client's needs.

Their Journey:

Being a piercer was not Andy’s initial path in life. As stated, “Prior to piercing I worked in law which can be really callus and dry.” Further saying, “I went into law because I wanted something traditional even when I looked at myself and knew a traditional job isn't for me. I was miserable [and] I hated my job, I hated the clients I was working for.” Clientele is a huge aspect of Andy’s work now, and one of the most fulfilling aspects of their piercing career as well. This growth in fulfillment and happiness has been very impactful for Andy. 

The takeaway from Andy's journey is that learning to grow is a humbling experience. Life is not a straight path, and mistakes or wrong turns are inevitable. However, we as people can steer the wheel in our favor and try to focus on what we ourselves want, not what others want. Andy always says this was one of her greatest setbacks, conforming to the norms. Yet, when they broke away and began to pursue their dreams, everything blossomed. “I always tell clients that if they’re scared they're doing life right. Life shouldn’t feel like you’re coasting, because if you’re coasting, you're not learning or growing,” says Andy.

Follow Your Passions:

A massive lesson Andy wishes to teach others is how important one's passions are. What someone loves to do every day, should be what they do every day. A career focused on oneself is the most fulfilling outcome one can pursue. Andy changed her entire life and career trajectory to pursue an occupation that always lingered in their mind. Now, Andy is the happiest version of themselves and preaches the pursuit of happiness.

Grow the circle of people you work for, with, and under. Learn from those around you, ask questions, and utilize the resources of those around you. The journey of your happiness is not easy, however, as Andy states, life is never easy. When life begins to feel easy, that means it is static. Life is meant to have obstacles and mounts to climb, however, once at the top, the struggle becomes worthwhile. 

Lastly, see your value and the value of those you serve. Whether clients, coworkers, or employees, that you work with should be respected and honored. Whether wealthy, similar, opposite, etc. every person you interact with brings a value of their own. A rude client may offer a lesson, a difficult client may offer a new routine, and an amazing client can lead to recurring appointments. In short, “Take a shot in the dark. Be uncomfortable. Be scared. It's cheesy but you really do only have one life and you should be happy with what you're doing.”

Social Media: @themodifiedpanda

Where to get pierced by Andy: 3 Fates Body Piercing ( 2940 E Thousand Oaks Blvd a, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362)