please help me tattoo artists willing to teach

my name is kevin im 17 years old and i live in orlando florida...my nuber one passion in life is my art, i dont know what i would do without it but for the past 3 months i've been waking up to look for work because i'm currently not going to school...i never got the opportunity to get my high school diploma and i didn't drop out because i wanted to my mom withdrew me...i've been to many tattoo shops and each one has told me to come in with a portfolio but i can't afford it which is why im looking for work. Right now im studying for my g.e.d but other than that im throwing my life away, i've been looking every where for tattoo artists who are willing to is so if teach me and this is really my last hope on this so if you're a tattoo artist willing to teach me im thee 100% so please i promise i won't disapoint.

Kevin- I understand your situation, and wish you were closer to where I am because there are some great studios always on the lookout for talent. But that is not the case right now so lets focus on what you need to get done. Many times when they ask for a portfolio it is just artwork- mainly your drawings including black and white as well as full color. Honestly paper is pretty cheap-you dont have to buy expensive paper, when there is a will there is a way. You should draw, paint everyday-until you feel that you have a good amount of art start hitting the road. Honestly you are 17 too so that may be a factor when you are trying out to be someone's apprentice. I know it is hard- and yes it sucks but I really hope that if your as passionate about your art as you say you are your hard work will pay off. I know it doesn't help you out in the right now situation- but consider yourself working towards a better life- and stop focusing on the idea of going no where fast. Best of luck!

kevin welcome to the world son! you sound sincere and i will not judge you.this is a very hard industry to get into and stay with.you are at the bottom and will need to scratch,bite,spit,grab,and crawl youre way up. to start with get some basic scetch pads and draw draw draw untuil your hands cramp,your head aches and draw some more.the internet is no place to learn this trade.BUT you can get some knowledgeable advice.But you must be willing to take critissiim (however its spelled lol) there is so many books and refernce material out there to learn from.im willing to lend you a hand and help you with some of those reference materials and art supplies you will need.NO ONE CAN MAKE YOU A TATTOO ARTIST.all we can do is help provide you with some basic tools and knowledge.the rest is up to you.so shoot me a e mail and we can go from there.this wont happen over night and you may realise later this just isnt your cup of tea.first and foremost stick to your job and draw on your free time.