While growing up just outside of Bristol is nothing short of idyllic for a young creative kid, Holly couldn’t help but feel a pull to explore something bigger. Following this, at the age of 19, Holly packed her bags ready to begin a backpacking journey across Asia. After spending 6 weeks soaking up ancient cultures and sunshine; she realised there were far more opportunities there than a temporary passing through… even with little to her name, she began to build a new base for herself in Vietnam.
This was the beginning of a 6 year adventure that took her living all across the country, immersing herself in multiple communities and where she found the love of her life… tattooing.
Holly began her journey as an apprentice after being recruited for a marketing roll in The Hangout Studios based in Hoi An, VN. The owners saw she had an interest in learning and offered a place within the studio to develop. She spent the first year drawing and painting everyday, indulging in the knowledge and passion within this amazing community. Following this, she was ready and keen to start practice on fake skin. Before she knew it, Holly was allowed to begin tattooing her friends. As the 3rd year came around, she became an official artist within the shop.
“It was such an amazing opportunity for me. I got to learn along side some of the most prominent artists in the country. Internally, I also worked my way up to being the studio manager and continued to develop the marketing at the same time. I was able to not only learn about tattooing as an art form but how to make it a practical way of living. I’m beyond grateful!” - Holly.
—————————
Why Coxy? Coxy came from her last name, given by an old friend nicknaming her as a teen. She liked having a semi-seperate name to root into her tattooing, the front facing persona in a way; but, also it was a nod to many female artists who came before her. Women would use an alias to have their work and stories publicised in times womens voices and contributions were rejected.
Why House Ember? Embers, while small, are quietly powerful. They hold heat & the potential to ignite something new. For why Holly used ‘house’ in the name, the idea was to also pay homage to the queer communities of the 1970’s/80’s. during the AIDS crisis, Houses were formed as a way of protection and safety for those left homeless by their families for simply being who they were born to be. They gathered together and made their own families, lived and thrived as one.
—————————
“I created this space to now have a virtual base to showcase my art and keep anyone who’s interested updated on my journey. It’s open to all - love, C xo”
