PROFESSIONAL TATTOOERS

Here's the deal: I apprenticed in a professional shop, and learned the standard procedures of running a shop. This included everything from mopping the floor to prevention of cross contamination, scrubbing tubes and grips, using an autoclave, preparing a work station, sketching tattoos for walk-in clients, and finally, under the supervision of my mentor, applying my first tattoo. Then things got weird. The shop changed ownership, the space was sold, and the shop moved. And my apprenticeship was terminated (prematurely) in this process. I have still only tattooed one person, being the one I mentioned, in a professional shop under the guidance of my former mentor. I still wish to pursue tattooing, but don't necessarily know what the next step is. I don't want to be a scratcher, but a legitimate professional, and honor this historical tradition. Right now I'm just painting flash and tattoo-related art, while working towards a Bachelor of Fine Art degree. I take this seriously, and am sincerely requesting the advice of the PROFESSIONAL tattooers on this forum. Have any of the professionals here had a similar experience or know a fellow artist who has? Any feedback will be greatly appreciated. Some examples of my artwork can be viewed upon request. Thanks for your time, D.