My name is Gezim. I’m a regular degular kid from the Bronx. Born, raised and proud. Always been different from most. I think of my self as a creative, and throughout my life my creativity grew and expanded through my experiences.
My creativity is a defining characteristic of my being.
Happy, sad, tragic, and funny stories contribute to my canvas. I’ve been lucky to be around some dope people who have influenced me in some form or fashion. I’ve also had the misfortune of experiencing some more than unfavorable moments.
I grew up in an old school home, raised by two immigrants from Europe. My Albanian parents were born and raised in former Yugoslavia. If you know your history, you know that the Albanian people haven’t seen many sunny days. Despite all we’ve been through, we persevered. We didn’t let our oppressors erase our tradition, culture or our very own existence. We also do not let our past oppression define us… but we used it as a catalyst to be better. If we fall 7 times, we rise 8.
In my house, tattoos were always a taboo, but on the other hand, Gezim was always a rebel. I was introduced to Grin through my cousin Magi, and the rest was history. I wanted artwork that represented Albanian independence. An ode to the victory we attained against our oppressors of over 500 years. I had something in mind, and Grin helped me see a bigger picture and created something special.
I’m 70% done, and the sleeve we started is special to me because of where my ancestors came from, and how hard they fought to preserve their identity. I wanted to literally wear it on my sleeve.
As a creative, cultivating this piece has helped me see bigger. Don’t stop at the first idea. Plant that seed, plant more seeds, and see how you can make those plants grand!
I’m an artist. I have aspirations to work with all kinds of artists from musicians to filmmakers to tattoo artists to poets, and on. Creating art is a flame that burns within me, and when I work with others, the flame grows bigger, and hotter.
I can’t wait to do more work with the one and only Grin Stylez. It’s never just a tattoo session… it’s a wisdom, philosophy, comedy, life session. Our next session will give me more ink…. and more life.
Peace ☮️
⁃ Gezim Camaj
@zimfinite
