rec.arts.bodyart: Tattoo FAQ 5/9--Artist List
Stan
Archive-name: bodyart/tattoo-faq/part5
Last-modified: June 13, 1998
Posting-frequency: Monthly
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This FAQ is maintained by Stan Schwarz <st...@cco.caltech.edu>
If you are reading this file using a web browser, and the file you are
looking at is from www.cis.ohio-state.edu, click on the other archive
sites to access the FAQs instead. Ohio State's site is no longer
maintained, and continues to provide outdated versions of FAQs.
You can retrieve a copy of the FAQ via anonymous ftp from the MIT FTP
server: <ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/bodyart>.
The FAQs are also available on thw World Wide Web at
<http://www.eskimo.com/~rab>.
The rec.arts.bodyart Tattoo FAQ is broken up into 9 parts:
1/9--Introduction
2/9--Getting a tattoo
3/9--Sanitation
4/9--Conventions
5/9--Artist list <---YOU ARE READING THIS FILE
6/9--Care of new tattoos
7/9--General care/removal
8/9--Misc. info
9/9--Bibliography
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Subject: WHAT THIS FILE CONTAINS
This file is structured as a traditional FAQ in the form of questions
and answers. Questions answered in this file:
Rec.arts.bodyart FAQ Part 5/9: Tattoo artist list
- Who is a good/bad tattoo artist near me?
o Laws on tattooing (primarily in the US)
US West Coast/Pacific
US Southwest
US Midwest
US Southeast
US East Coast
Canada: British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec
EUROPE/UK: London
EUROPE/POLAND
EUROPE/AUSTRIA
ASIA/Japan
- Where on my body should I get a tattoo?
COPYRIGHT AND DISSEMINATION: Under the Berne Convention, this document
is Copyright (c) 1997 by Lani Teshima-Miller, all rights reserved.
Permission is granted for it to be reproduced electronically on any
system connected to the various networks which make up the Internet,
Usenet, and FidoNet so long as it is reproduced in its entirety,
unedited, and with this copyright notice intact. Web sites are included.
Individual copies may also be printed for personal use.
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Subject: WHO IS A GOOD/BAD TATTOO ARTIST NEAR ME?
The following is a list of artists who are personally reviewed by RAB
readers. I've now pulled all unattributed reviews that were in the FAQ
prior to my taking over the maintenance of. What unattributed reviews
there are left are from people who submitted reviews to me long before I
got my act together.
A posting on this FAQ does *not* constitute approval, and is the
personal opinion of the reviewer. For liability purposes, it is YOUR
responsibility to check out the artist. Because I only accept personal
recommendations, this list is limited to those who are known to people
who read RAB There are many excellent artists who have not made it on
this list yet. Just because an artist is not on this list doesn't mean
they're not recommendable. Consider the reviews in this list along the
lines of a restaurant or movie review--YMMV.
If you do not see any artists from your area, I suggest you read the
previous section of this FAQ on HOW to check out a shop yourself.
Another way to is to ask a person with a nice tattoo, which artist did
the work. This by the way, is always a very nice question to ask and
will often elicit a totally different response from the tattooed person
(since comments usually tend to be things like "Is that real?" "Did it
hurt?"). Asking who the artist was that did the work is a compliment
both to the person and his/her artist.
To submit a review, contact <la...@lava.net> for an artist review form
via email. ANYONE can review an artist for this section. If you like
your artist, get his name out on the Internet by writing a review!
*RIGHT OF REPLY*
Anyone mentioned here in the artist review who feels they have been
misrepresented or who wish a "right of reply" are invited to send email
to me at <la...@lava.net>. The contents of that email will be posted in
its entirety in its first appearance, and a condensed version included
permanently along with the artist's review.
US WEST COAST & PACIFIC
CALIFORNIA
California law states professional tattoo artists are not allowed to
tattoo minors who are under the age of 18. Otherwise unregulated.
Bay Area
========
222 TATTOO, 222 Eighth Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, 415 255-8222
Rates: $120/hr, $50 min; $25-$50 cash deposit required when making
appt. Cash, credit cards.
Reviewed 11/97 by Art Richards <sid...@silcon.com>
SHOP REVIEW: 2.5 blocks south of Market in industrial neighborhood.
Newly remodeled, spacious, bright, airy, clean, pleasant, a lot of
artwork & plants. Excellent sound system and good CD collection. Makes
every other shop I've been to look like a hole in the wall.
ARTIST REVIEW--EDDIE DEUTSCH: World-class custom artist, formerly of Ed
Hardy's Tattoo City. Honed his art by working with many well-known
names. Easy chairside manner. Works mainly freehand, fantastic color
sense; very fast, takes few breaks hence probably less expensive than
artists charging less. Tattooing for 10 years. Booked at least a month
ahead.
BLUE BUDDHA, 1959 Ashby Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94703, 510-549-9860
Priced by piece; ongoing, such as back pieces, $120/hr. Cash only.
Work featured at <http://www.grin.net/~holden94/tattoo/>.
Reviewed 7/97 by Art Richards <sid...@silcon.com>.
SHOP REVIEW: Across the street from the BART station in a row of small
shops. The studio is small and a little cluttered. John works in an
alcove at the back, Will out front. Usual sanitary precautions observed
(gloves, ink cups, sterilization, etc.). A large selection of flash in
the waiting area. Alcove can be blocked off for privacy.
ARTIST REVIEW--JOHN DOUGHERTY: Hell of an artist! I picked out a small
flash phoenix; he used basic orientation, but completely redrew it and
did a full color rendering before we started. Got a lot of attention at
a recent convention. Easy to talk to. Has been tattooing 10 years,
apprenticed with Kev Heath. Heavily tattooed himself, full sleeves.
Many of his excellent custom sketches mounted on the walls.
TATTOO ARCHIVE, 2804 San Pablo Ave., Berkeley 94702. Ph: 510/548-5895
$100/hour, $45 minimum. Cash and major credit cards.
Reviewed 5/96 by Ann Duveneck <duve...@a.crl.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean (he wears gloves while tattooing etc.) and
fascinating (lots of pictures and curios). When he worked on my legs,
he locked the door for privacy. When he did my shoulder (with my OK),
he let people wander in; this made me feel I was getting the total
tattoo experience! Neighborhood is old part of town; but I never felt
unsafe or was hassled on the street.
ARTIST REVIEW--CHUCK ELDRIDGE: Best known as a tattoo historian, but
does beautiful work of his own. A great conversationalist but not overly
chatty. Really listened and was open to my ideas about the design, but
also made suggestions to maintain artistic quality. He's had this shop
15 years. Won't do faces, hands, or necks. Heavily tattooed himself;
has collected tattoos from all over the world.
TATTOO CITY, 722 Columbus Ave, SF, CA 94133 415/433-9437
Cost: $125/hr, cash/credit cards.
Shop reviewer: Karl Elvis MacRae <bat...@cisco.com>.
SHOP REVIEW: The best in shop in SF (Actually, without a doubt the best
in the state; possibly the best in the country). Owned by Ed Hardy; the
guys who work there are simply great. You cannot go wrong with them.
ARTIST REVIEW--UPDATE AS OF 9/25/95, with new information provided by
Francesca Passalacqua <hma...@lava.net>, Hardy's wife.
NALLA <elp...@ix.netcom.com>: Blackwork; excellent artist. Also
knowledgeable about piercings, "a young guy from New York."
IGOR MORTIS: A great tattooer from Holland. UPDATE AS OF 97: Igor
is now working out of a Black Cat Tattoo in Kailua, Hawaii (on Oahu).
COLIN STEVENS: A young American who was raised in Japan. He's more
comfortable in Japanese than in English, but his English is nearly
perfect. His design sense is clearly Japanese. He is an amazing
artist, doing Japanese-style work.
Review 11/96 by Michael VanDercreek <Mic...@almcepud.vip.best.com>:
SHOP REVIEW: Flash from many styles adorn the walls of this medium-sized
tattoo parlor. Wide variety of music enjoyed by the even wider variety
of customers. Walk-ins accepted as possible but reservations highly
recommended as this is very busy shop with well known artists. It is
obvious that sanitation is a high priority here.
ARTIST REVIEW--NALLA SMITH: Fine-art illustration (SF/fantasy, anime,
comic book, gothic tribalism, nouveau design), undeniably first rate.
Portfolio shows mastery of many popular styles but more importantly also
show he has perfected own style. Chair-side manner friendly and caring
without sacrificing attention paid to artwork. True artist and will work
with you to achieve the perfect piece.
San Jose
========
PIN UP PARLOUR, 520 South Second St, San Jose CA 408/279-3582.
Reviewer: J. Eric Townsend <j...@netcom.com>
* UPDATE! Klem is now online at <ETC...@prodigy.com>, and is*
* now at a shop called "Marks of Art," also in San Jose. *
ARTIST REVIEW--KLEM <ETC...@prodigy.com>: Went to Klem on the advice
of Karl MacRae. Klem helped figure out the right size of the piece I
wanted; talked to me quite a bit about visual vs. physical balance of
the placement of a tattoo ; answered all my questions about how
everything worked, what he was doing, why he did it, etc. Sems to
specialize in non-geometric, like Asian fish designs (he's got some
beautiful drawings of koi in his booth).
DRAGON TATTOO, San Jose, CA
Reviewer: Karl Elvis MacRae <bat...@cisco.com>
ARTIST REVIEW--PINKY YUEN: Used to be one of the best around--one of the
first Hong Kong tattooist to come over here and start a shop, so I
consider it something of an honor to be wearing his work. However in his
advanced age (70s?), he's not the same as he was. When he tattooed me
(twice, the first about 12 years ago, the second more like 9), he was
still doing OK work if he liked you, so I got some decent stuff.
Sacramento
==========
BACK DOOR STUDIO, 1316 Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento, 95815
916/927-2136. Noon-8pm. 7 days/week. General Prices: $80/hr.
Reviewer: Richard Talbert <rtal...@netcom.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Clean friendly shop, has won the local "News & Review"
newspaper "Best Place to Get a Tattoo" award for 3 out of 4 yrs.
ARTIST REVIEW--JACKIE: Good basic work. Has done 5 tattoos on me from
Mickey Mouse Fantasia to tribal work. Have had her work described as as
crisp sharp lines with an understanding of what a tattoo should be.
LIBERTY TATTOO, 4825 Amber Lane (off College Oak near Auburn Blvd.)
Sacramento, CA 95814. Ph: 916/344-4340. $100/hour, cash only.
Reviewed 5/96 by: Carin Kimble <carin....@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: The shop is spotless. Bill's work area is in the open, but
there are two other rooms with more privacy for the shy. Both the
neighborhood and the other artists are fairly nice.
ARTIST REVIEW--BILL LIBERTY: Nine-time award winner, in the business for
years. Has great chairside manner and work is incredible. My piece is
beautifully done, colorful and unique. People stop me daily to ask where
I got it done. I have had work done by others, but I'll never go back to
them after having gotten work from Bill.
Santa Clara
===========
EDDIE'S SKIN WORKS, 1207 El Camino Real, Santa Clara 408/554-8520
Reviewer: Karl Elvis MacRae <bat...@cisco.com>
ARTIST REVIEW--EDDIE LUM. Highly recommend Pinky's brother, Eddie Lum.
His forte, not surprisingly, is Oriental stuff. Very good w/ flowing
lines, dragons,tigers, flowers. I have 2 pieces from him & am very
pleased. Warning: For custom designs, there's a language barrier, you
may have to explain it several times.
Redwood City
============
REDWOOD TATTOO, 846-M Jefferson Ave, Redwood City, CA
415/369-6365, walk-ins welcome, but appts have priority. Closed
Sun. & Mon, appts required for custom work. Cash only.
Reviewer: Rebecca Fenton <as....@forsythe.stanford.edu>
ARTIST REVIEW--PACO DIETZ: Was at Picture Machine (San Francisco);
specializes in fantasy art, custom designs. New shop w/ lots of new
flash. Beautiful tribal and celtic designs, as well as some unusual
Native American designs. Darker style Karl: Apprentice, past experiences
have been scratching out of his home. Specializes in Neo-Japanese. Does
very nice custom work (my favorite of his is a butterfly with a tiger
face peering out at you through the wing designs), experience in
blackwork and fine line.
Santa Cruz
==========
LOVEDOG TATTOOS, 628 "B" Ocean (behind Trading Musician), Santa Cruz
95060; 408/469-3642
Rate: Under $80/hour, cash only
Reviewed 11/95 by June Petersen <ju...@savina.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Small place, didn't see much privacy available. Shop was
very clean. Books available in the waiting area with art samples of all
the artists. From what I saw, exacting symmetry might not be her strong
suit, but the more creative work verged from nice to gorgeous.
ARTIST REVIEW--CHERIE: Very professional, friendly, and solicitous of my
comfort. We discussed the work in detail prior to start, and results
were quite pleasing. Aftercare information was quite good. Highly
recommended, based on my work, and the examples of her other work.
DIVERSITY, 1419 Broadway, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; 510 939-7901
Rate: $100/hr, $40 minimum. Cash, major credit and debit cards
Reviewed 7/97 by Art Richards <sid...@silcon.com>
SHOP REVIEW: In downtown across from library, Diversity is a head shop
with one corner fenced off by a four-foot partition for
two tattooists and one piercer, which makes your tattoo performance art,
though screens available for privacy. Usual sanitary precautions observed,
new needle for each client. Non-smoking. Lounge area available.
Santa Rosa
==========
INKY CELLS TATTOO COMPANY, 821 Santa Rosa Avenue Santa Rosa, CA 95407
(707) 569-9525. Cost: $50 minimum for custom work, cash only.
Reviewed 3/97 by Sharron Darnell <black...@juno.com>.
SHOP REVIEW: Tiny, but immaculate & well organized. Located on a busy
street in a dicey but colorful neighborhood. No privacy - shop is too
small. Homey atmosphere, like being in your own living room.
ARTIST REVIEW--DANA TYRRELL: 6+ years experience. Very friendly, with an
almost maternal chairside manner. Will not tattoo hate messages
(swastikas, etc). Amazing portfolio!
Central Valley
===================
Tattoo Time, 1680 Yosemite Pkwy, Merced
Ph: (209) 388-1067
Reviewed 3/98 by Dragon Don Sewell <wo...@a1pro.net>
Shop Review: The shop is located on the south side of Merced on your
way to Yosemite. The shop is clean comfortable and profeshional. There
is a very large selection of flash and jewelry to choose from.
Artist Review--Dammit Dave Climer: Dammit Dave is probably the finest
flash tattooist I have seen. I have been to many shops and conventions
and still travel over 500 miles for my body work. He is a member of
NTA.APT.APC. and the APP. He has been tattooing for about
13yrs. 5yrs. in his own shop. He has been piercing for about 4yrs.
Greater Los Angeles
===================
BLACK WAVE TATTOO, 118 S. La Brea, LA. 213/932-1900
Reviewer: Lani Teshima-Miller <la...@lava.net> FAQ maintainer
ARTIST REVIEW--LEO ZULUETA: An incredibly humble and well-mannered man,
this former Hawaii boy is internationally noted for his bold tribal
blackwork. Amazing to see such bold pieces come out of such a diminutive
person. A nice person who makes your ink session a very pleasant
experience, he lacks the arrogance and attitude that sometimes emerges
with such big stars in this league.
BODY ELECTRIC TATTOO, 7274 1/2 Melrose Ave., LA, 90046.
Ph. 213/954-0408. Payment in cash, credit cards. Rate: $100/hr
Reviewed 8/95 by Lauri Tyeryar <bl...@ix.netcom.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Shop was immaculate, professional, in a clean, touristy
neighborhood, easy to get to. Everyone in the shop was professional,
knowledgeable, and friendly.
ARTIST REVIEW--JESSE TUESDAY: Specializes in custom, Japanese. Did a
great job on my arm. Not at all opposed to working around someone else's
work. Spent ~6 hours there and it was great. Left w/ an amazing piece,
was charged *very* fairly and felt like I'd made a friend. Went the
extra mile to see that we were both satisfied, and there was NO
attitude.
OUTER LIMITS, 3024 W Ball Rd (@ Beach), Anaheim, CA 92804 714/761-8288.
Reviewer: Tim Lu <t...@sunstroke.sdsu.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Shop wall is covered with awards. Nice front reception
area; work area behind reception counter. Not too much privacy--
individual work areas not divided. [Second shop in Riverside, although
Kari Barba works primarily out of the Anaheim shop: Twilight Fantasy
Tattoo of Riverside, 5517 Van Buren Bl (Sylvan & Van Buren), Riverside,
CA 909/688-8282. M-Th 11-10 FSS 11-11 MC VS AM Disc, cash no checks.]
ARTIST REVIEW--KARI BARBA: Extremely well-known for her work w/ nature &
wildlife. Style reminiscent of a watercolor-like quality, which sets her
apart from many other artists.
PECKER WOODS TATTOO, 16501 P.C.H., Sunset Beach, CA 90742, 310-592-3715
Rates: $125/hr, cash.
Reviewed 3/97 by William Carl Endsley <nst...@ucla.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean shop; hospital sterilization & equipment (e.g.
gurney, arm rest, cleaning solution). Half block from beach in very nice
environment. Easy to find on Coast Hwy. Moderate privacy depending on
area of tattoo. White tiled floor provides operating-room effect. Ample
sunlight through windows while keeping privacy.
ARTIST REVIEW--TROY HARLESS: Originally from Whittier, CA, tattooing
professionally for 8 years. His creativity and passion for the art is
reflected in his custom free-hand designs. His personality makes you
feel at ease, satisfied, yet wanting more.
SKIN WORKS, 313 E. Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach 92661, 714/675-8905
Reviewer: Tim Lu <t...@sunstroke.sdsu.edu>
ARTIST REVIEW--ARDEE ALLEN (owner): Excellent, always very professional.
I feel it's important to support women in business--been going to her
for about 5 years and she's done my entire chest & about 3/4 of my back.
Periodically attends conventions, work has appeared in a number of
tattoo magazines. Specialties: Custom work, coverups, colorwork, sumi
(Japanese calligraphy) style grey work.
LYNDA TOBBIN: Talented artist who does very nice custom work.
Piercer: Val.
SUNSET STRIP TATTOO, INC., 8418 Sunset Blvd. W. Hollywood 90069.
213/650-6530. 10am-Midnite 7 days/wk.
Reviewed by Antigone Means <mean...@ba.isu.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Was quite impressed by their work in magazines, so I went
to check it out. It was clean, the people were very nice, and I was
impressed by the pieces that walked out of there.
ARTIST REVIEW--DOTTIE: I brought my own design; the artwork is
fantastic; lines are straight & even, shading is very
professional--everything I could have wanted! Made getting my tattoo a
highly positive experience, and everyone (other artists included) has
been highly impressed and wanted to know who did it!!
San Diego
=========
AVALON TATTOOS, 1035 Garnet Ave, San Diego, 92109 (Pacific Beach)
619/274-7635. Email: kel...@aol.com. Needles autoclaved, new ink for
each new client. Hours: Noon-8pm. Appts preferred; walk-ins on Sat
only. Cash only. Privacy ensured.
Update: 6/98 from mike <maq...@ufowatcher.com>
Avalon now has a 2nd store opened in San Diego , at 3039 Adams Avenue ,
San Diego Ca. 92104 ph # 619*280*1957 ! It is run by Fip Buchanan.
Reviewer: Lani Teshima-Miller <la...@lava.net> former FAQ maintainer
ARTIST REVIEW--PATTI KELLEY: Specializes in bright color work. Award
winner, booked a few months ahead.
FIP BUCHANAN: Graffiti art.
STEVE BARJONAS: Likes all styles but particularly enjoys Native
American gray work.
RANDY: Comic book art-style.
MIKE STROBBE
Santa Barbara
=============
TATTOO SANTA BARBARA, 318 State St, or mail: PO Box 777, Santa Barbara,
93101 805/962-7552; fax 805/962-1412. Email: <pat...@aol.com>.
By appt. Open around noon; Closed M/T. Quotes on small work; $100/hr
on large/custom work. Cash, Visa/MC, AMEX, ATM cards.
*PERSONALLY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED BY TATTOO FAQ MAINTAINER.*
Shop Review #1 by Thom Wade <crest...@aol.com>: Bright, airy shop a
few blocks from pier with most hygienic setup I've ever seen. Work area
separated from walk-ins by a counter. Lots of visual art (hanging fans,
fish, visions of Ireland) in addition to tattoo art. Vast collection of
tattoo art and ideas.
Shop Review #2 4/96 by Sean Corfield <se...@ocsltd.com>: Excellent
sterile conditions despite a wonderfully cluttered shop with great guard
dog. Plenty of things hanging from the ceiling to keep the eyes occupied
while being worked on. Lots of soothing music, celtic, new age whatever.
Work area only separated from walk-in area by a counter but still
reasonably private.
Artist Review #1 by Thomas Wade: Pat Fish (owner): Specializes in Celtic
design. Tattooing 10+ years (after UCSB degree). Executes amazing
artistic visions on skin. Honest, direct and professional in every
aspect of her tattooing, making each customer feel his/her work is
important. With an artist's feel for what will look best, she guides
customers to art that looks and wears well.
Artist Review #2 by Aaron Remick <rem...@csulb.edu>: Pat is a very frank
and honest sort who really takes a lot of pride in her work, from design
through the finished tattoo. She was very helpful in working out tattoo
design, particularly relating to her knowledge of the Celtic style,
which is extensive.
Artist Review #3 by Sean Corfield <se...@ocsltd.com> 4/96: Pat is a
fiercely independent, outspoken woman who doesn't suffer fools gladly.
Taught initially by Cliff Raven, she has built up over 10 years of
experience running her own shop. She takes great pride in her work and
is very patient while dealing with placement and customisation of the
design. Her knowledge of Celtic art and culture is extensive and she has
a real passion for it.
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OREGON
Portland
========
ATOMIC ART, 1306 NW Hoyt St. St 302, Portland, OR. 503/224-3633
Hours 11am-9pm Tuesday-Saturday, $100/hour, Cash only.
Reviewed 3/96 by: John Thomas Smith <jts...@pacifier.com>.
SHOP REVIEW: Clean (autoclave is prominent on a counter) and bright,
located in a older building housing many small businesses. Everyone in
the shop is VERY careful to maintain a sanitary work area.
ARTIST REVIEW--LONDON BELLMAN: All artists in shop do custom work. I had
London copy a picture of a Tiger's face from a book of cats. London
is/was an artist (drawing and sculpture) before doing tattoo. This is my
first so I have no way to compare with others, but EVERYONE who has seen
the work is very impressed. I would recommend London Bellman to anyone.
--==*-< >-*==--
WASHINGTON (State): Laws on tattooing: Nonexistent and unregulated.
Lynwood
=======
DERMA*GLYPHS BY SHADER, 13813 Hwy. 99, Lynnwood, WA 98037
Reviewed 3/97 by Carry Tveit <kah...@earthlink.net>
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean, not much on walls, total privacy (blankets over
windows, door to studio, waiting area) in a easy to access area, nice
music, very mellow. Makes own needles, never uses one on more than one
client. Cleans between each color. Blends own colors.
ARTIST REVIEW--SONNY (owner): He took time (an hour!) to discuss the tat
beforehand, been in business for over 27 years, very nice, checks up on
how you are doing often.
Seattle
=======
DERMAGRAPHICS OF SEATTLE, 1516 Western Ave, Seattle,
206/622 1535, by appointment only, http://www.oz.net/~vyvyn
Reviewer: Lani Teshima-Miller <la...@lava.net> FAQ maintainer
ARTIST REVIEW--VYVYN LAZONGA: Specializes in combining bold primitive
lines with colorful, flowing abstract geometrics lines, bubbles, etc.
The whole effect is very pleasing, and rather unique, & would work well
for both men and women.
Reviewer: Gail LaForest-Mall <anl...@oz.net>
Artist Review--Vyvyn Lazonga: I have found Vyvyn to be very sensitive
and forth-right. I have great respect for her skill and ability to
sense the needs of the people she works with. I also admire her
courage in her long history of development and recognition as one of
the world's first female tattoo artists.
SEATTLE TATTOO EMPORIUM, 1106 E. Pike St, Seattle 206/622 6895
Reviewer: Hostess <twi...@u.washington.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: A girl I worked with (who has 14-15 tattoos) told me that
she and her friends had had bad experiences from them in the past,
stemming primarily from their unprofessional behavior in trying to "hit
on them" in what they perceived as rather unflattering ways. Please
note that this did not happen to me when *I* went, although they did
not provide very good aftercare instructions.
Artist Review #1 by Hostess--HUBBA: I had a decent (if not average)
small rose tattooed by a guy named Hubba at the Seattle Tattoo Emporium.
Artist Review #2 by Kat O'Bryan <k...@eskimo.com>: Okay, I beg to differ
on this one. I got my (very beautiful) tattoo at Seattle Tattoo
Emporium. Jim Hillary was the artist. I have seen other work he has
done, and I thought it was beautiful. Don't know if I would have gotten
any of the other guys there to do it, but I liked what I saw in his
book. Plus he is a nice guy. I get constant compliments on my tattoo
(whenever I wear a shirt that is low enough in back). I guess any place
can have its mistakes.
Slave to the Needle, Seattle
Reviewed 4/98 by Melissa Monson <je...@prosystemsinc.com>
Shop Review: Great shop, lots of artwork to view and portfolios.clean
place, sterile, good music, friendly artists and comfortable chairs for
your friends while they wait.
Artist Review--Piere: Piere had a nice portfolio and I took a look it
it and saw good inking, and well done tatts. Most of it was graffiti
style but he adapts well to other types and styles.
Spokane
=======
ARTISTIC IMPRESSIONS, 4901 N. Market, Spokane 99207, 509/483-6545
$75/hr (1993 rate).
Reviewer: Victor Swan <sw...@Wsuvm1.csc.wsu.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Clean, well lit, open feeling shop. Business-like,
professional and congenial for both men and women (sometimes has a
female apprentice). Clientele are both young and old; shop does not
have a biker image, although bikers do come in from time to time. Has
alot of original flash, much of it not priced. He prices this original
flash after he does a piece once. Buys original tattoo artwork from
local artists.
ARTIST REVIEW--DUFFY MOON: Well worth the top rate in this area. Charges
less if it takes less time than estimate; never charges more than the
quoted price. Excellent technique, skill, craftsmanship. Incredible fine
work. Seems to like the opportunity to be creative--adds to/alters
designs on the fly. His personal, almost full-sleeve tattoos were
full-page pictured in _Skin & Ink_, Feb. '94, p. 61. He and his "Most
Unusual" award winning tattoo from the Chicago Tattoo Tour '93 are in a
full-page picture in _Tattoo Ink_, Jan. '94, p. 64.
IDAHO--Tattooing laws: Nonexistent and unregulated.
EYE OF THE DRAGON, 416 S 5th Ave C, Pocatello, ID, 83204;
(208) 232-7829. Appts/walk-ins welcome.
Reviewer: Antigone Means <mean...@ba.isu.edu>
ARTIST REVIEW--TOKEN TOM: Specializes in blackwork, and charges $5 for
each extra color. My custom frog piece looked like an outline with some
coloring in; the shading wasn't right and in 2 months the color started
to fade!! He & apprentice Jan were very nice, but I didn't want to go
back to get my tatt redone there after that experience. You will have a
problem if smoking bothers you. Permanent eyelining done, and now have a
resident piercer.
TY'S TATTOOS, 690 Yellowstone Av. Pocatello 83201, 208/234-4577.
Very reasonable rates. Appts/walk-ins welcome.
Reviewer: Antigone Means <mean...@ba.isu.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Small but very clean; no smoking in front room.
ARTIST REVIEW--TY: Specializes in custom, tribal, and bright colors.
Very pleased with the results. Not totally perfect; some lines not as
even as could be on the outline, but pretty darn good. Excellent
shading, vibrant colors. Definitely an artist, not just
fill-in-the-space person. Definitely got more than my money's worth.
Ty's apprentice, Pat, drew up the outline freehand, and did an excellent
job. Ty guarantees his work and will do touchups for free with no
hassle.
--==*-< >-*==--
HAWAII
Oahu
====
A BLACK CAT TATTOO, 137 Hekili, Kailua, 808/263-5535
Open daily. Cash, Visa, Mastercard.
Artists: Igor Mortis (formerly of Tattoo City in San Francisco), and
Kandi Everett (formerly of China Sea).
CHINA SEA TATTOO, 1033 Smith, Honolulu, 808/553-1603
Reviewer: Lani Teshima-Miller <la...@lava.net> FAQ maintainer.
SHOP REVIEW: The oldest tattoo studio in the US with a grand tradition.
In Chinatown area near Downtown Honolulu. Suggest going during the day
(hours: Noon-11pm) to avoid seedy nightlife scene.
ARTIST REVIEW--MIKE MALONE, DOUG HARDY: All excellent. Mike very active
in the tat world, and attends tat conventions. Doug Hardy is Don Ed
Hardy's son, and has been working at China Sea now for over three years.
SKIN DEEP TATTOOING, 2128 Kalakaua Ave, Hon. 808/924-7460.
If in Waikiki, you may want to stop by; right on the main strip. Place
is run by Winona Martin & several of her workers. Advertises heavily;
may be pricy due to Waikiki location.
U.S. ROCKIES
--==*-< >-*==--
COLORADO
Boulder
=======
BOLDER INK, 2735 Iris Ave., Suite A, Boulder CO 80304, (303) 444-7380
$100/hour shop rate for custom work, cash and credit cards, including
Visa, MC and Discover.
Reviewed by S. "Elusis" Thomas <elu...@dreamscape.com>.
SHOP REVIEW: Clean, comfortable, *very* friendly. Each artist has own
private booth area. Jennifer's is right in front w/ glass windows around
the top, but I doesn't feel too exposed. Safety/hygiene credentials and
workshop certifications displayed prominently. Portfolios for each
artist available out front: all quite impressive.
ARTIST REVIEW--JENNIFER was extremely friendly during our consultation,
enthusiastic about my choice of subject. She took the sketches and
pictures I brought in and did her own drawing from them over the next
week. I was especially pleased with her color work and the detail of her
shading. I understand that she's leaving Boulder at the end of August to
open a shop in Portland, OR.
Reviewed 4/98 by Anna Bunce <bun...@ucsu.colorado.edu>
Shop Review: Autoclave, of course. Lance explains all sterilization,
and is aware of cross-contamination. He has been working with the
Health Dept. to develop a code for tattooists and piercers. Shop is
very clean, in a sort-of upscale mini mall. All 4 artists have their
own rooms off the reception area, so privacy is not a problem. No
smoking in the shop.
Artist Review--Lance Talon: Lance has a BFA from San Fran Art
Institute. Member APP/APT. Very polite and considerate. A cool guy
who also happens to be a great artist.
BOUND BY DESIGN, 1121 Broadway, Boulder CO 80302, (303) 786-7272
Rates: Up to $200 an hour for custom work. Cash, credit cards.
Reviewed by S. "Elusis" Thomas <elu...@dreamscape.com>
SHOP REVIEW: I encountered a "hipper-than-thou" attitude from the
artist, who quoted me what I thought was a high rate. His portfolio did
not seem to have many photos or custom work. Perhaps I felt judged about
my "normal" appearance and lack of experience with tattoos.
U.S. SOUTHWEST--Currently no listings.
U.S. MIDWEST
--==*-< >-*==--
ILLINOIS: Illinois Compiled Statutes Annotated @ 16-5-71 (1993):
Professional tattoo artists are not allowed to tattoo minors under the
age of *21*. Violations are considered a Class C misdemeanor. Otherwise
unregulated.
BODY BASICS PRECISION TATTOOING & BODY PIERCINGS, 613 W Briar, Chicago,
60657, 312/404-5838, (blk so. of Belmont, w. of Broadway), email:
<bba...@interserv.com> Daily: M-Th 2-10p, F/Sa 2-Midnite, S 2-6p.
Cash, Visa/Mastercard. Appointments required for tattoo work. Resident
tattooist as of 3/97 is Misha.
Reviewer: Phredd Groves <phr...@casbah.acns.nwu.edu>
Owned by Mad Jack, I can personally recommend these guys as far as
piercing & professionalism goes.
CHICAGO TATTOOING COMPANY, 922 W Belmont, Chicago, 312/528 6969.
Reviewer: Marla Clayman <cla...@nwu.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Clean; on one wall there's a list saying something like
"things to look for in a safe tattoo environment" (cleanliness, etc)
which put me even more at ease because I knew questions would be
welcomed. No smoking. In a very gay-friendly and fun area. Rates:
$100/hr. Cash, credit cards
ARTIST REVIEW--ROB(ERT) HIXON: Seems to enjoy cover-up work. Has a
background in design and drafting, been tattooing for a couple of years.
Very friendly (and patient) to first-timers, and I saw a lot of cover-up
work I was impressed by in his portfolio. Willing to speak about other
artists he liked. Others he's inked that i've talked to have been very
pleased as well.
GUILTY + INNOCENT PRODUCTIONS, 3105 N. Lincoln, Chicago 60657,
312/404-6955 tattoos, 404-6963 merchandise. Mail-order catalog $1.
Reviewers: Phredd Groves <phr...@casbah.acns.nwu.edu>, Dawn Grace
Russell <daw...@rci.ripco.com> and Lani Teshima-Miller <la...@lava.net>
FAQ maintainer.
SHOP REVIEW: In an unassuming neighborhood with many empty shops. Could
easily miss this small shop if you weren't looking for it. Front area
looks rather dark with black walls, reminiscent of a bachelor pad.
Actual work area half a flight up in the back on a custom-built floor.
Air conditioning as of 6/95. --Lani.
ARTIST REVIEW--GUY AITCHISON: Booked a year and a half in
advance--deposit required, call for details. Award-winning artist,
highly skilled, very adept at translating your wishes into reality, hot
stuff! Well worth the price and long waiting period. $150/hr, includes
consultation/drawing time. --Phredd
An incredibly gifted artist with a personality to match; unassuming
and unpretentious, Guy seems more driven by an inner need to express
his art than in making a buck--I was impressed both by his work and
his person! --Lani
Notes: Dawn says *GUY DOES FRACTAL WORK*!
Rob Koss no longer at G+IP as of 1996.
I'M NO ANGEL PRODUCTION, 2606 W. Farmington Rd., Peoria, 61604.
309/673-4930. Open Noon to 8pm everyday. New needles and ink for each
new customer. Appointment required.
Reviewer: Steven Parks <nud...@bucs1.bradley.edu>
ARTIST REVIEW--WANDA HARPER (owner): Specializes in Celtic and Native
American designs, as well as piercings. Learned from Jim Hawk
(Galesburg), who occasionally stops by for a visit, and people in town
who know him may come in for a special tat. Wanda looks out for her
customers and won't do work that won't turn out--It's all in the
reputation.
LIVING COLOR TATTOOS, 1622 Broadway, Mattoon 61938, 217/234-9611
Appointments only; will take walk-ins if appointments are cancelled.
Rate: $100/hour, cash only.
Reviewed 2/96 by Brad Koehler <TAT...@aol.com>.
SHOP REVIEW: Nice large building in the nicest block of downtown
business district. High ceilings, well-lit work area, walls covered w/
colorful sheets of flash. Curtains can be drawn around work area for
privacy. Very clean; new needles/surgical gloves every time, all
equipment autoclaved, health department inspected/approved.
ARTIST REVIEW--DAVE "TOAD" BALDWIN: Only artist in shop. Accomplished
artist, owned/operated own shop for the 14 yrs. Excellent with the
clients, has great reputation and large following in the east central
Illinois. Very professional, explains everything, will answer all
questions. Has also been doing piercings for the past couple of years.
TATTOO FACTORY, 4408 N. Broadway , Chicago IL 60640, 312-989-4077
Cash, credit cards.
Reviewed 7/96 by: Rob Voorwinden <ro...@xs4all.nl>
SHOP REVIEW: Large shop in relaxed neighborhood. A lot of designs
(looked for large tribal design for upper leg in various Netherlands &
London shops; finally found it here). Shop looks very clean. New razor,
needle and new plastic cover on the disinfectant spray for each
customer. This shop seems much cleaner than most shops I've seen.
ARTIST REVIEW--HARLAN ROSS: Very friendly, takes time for his customers.
Took some effort to get the design on the right place on my leg. Harlan
worked on me for 2.5 hours. The tattoo is really great: 13" wide, and on
its highest point 4" high. I paid 400 dollars for it and got two free
t-shirts as a bonus :)
--==*-< >-*==--
IOWA--Tattooing laws: ?
Creative Images, 4817 University Ave #7, Des Moines
Ph: 515 277 8288, $80 per hour
Reviewer: Jeff Gitchel <po...@pobox.com>
Shop Review: Excellent atmosphere, good location, many books of
art. Air conditioned, comfortable, and very clean. Smoking not allowed
in shop, nor persons under 18 (by law). Tattoos by appointment only.
Artist Review--Sherry: Sherry is the shop owner. She is very willing
to answer questions, and fun to talk to. She is very well known, among
those concerned for quality, for her excellent detail and single
needle work. I saw many people wearing examples of her fine work
before I called. I will be calling her again.
Reviewer: Davo Wilkins <Davo...@webtv.net>
Artist Review--Sherry Sears:Sherry has been tattooing for over 15
years in Des Moines. Her bed side manner is calm and relaxing and she
will let you bring in cds and make the experence as personal as
possible. She has a keen eye for placing and drawing the tattoo to fit
the body. She does mostly custom work.
--==*-< >-*==--
KANSAS--Tattooing laws: unregulated.
SKIN ILLUSTRATIONS, 9970 Sante Fe Dr (87th Street), Overland Park.
Ph: 913/642-7464.
Reviewer: Robert Goings <robsgon%ksuvm....@cmsa.berkeley.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Professional, VERY clean, excellent relaxing atmosphere;
great for both first-timers and experienced. Prices: $50/hr for
standard work and $65/hr for custom work. Some piercings also done:
Average price: $25 + jewelry.
ARTIST REVIEW--UNCLE RUSSELL: An excellent artist who's very versatile
in the use of colors and shades.
Jake: A very good artist also excellent with shading.
Matt: Shop apprentice.
--==*-< >-*==--
MICHIGAN--Tattooing laws: unregulated.
CREATIVE TATTOO, TATTOO AS ART, 307 E Liberty St. Ann Arbor, 48104.
313/662-2520. $100 minimum, $200/hr depending on work.
Cash only. Reviewer: Jami Goldstein <ja...@mail.oac.ohio.gov>
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean, bright, airy, nicely decorated with lots of
reference books and magazines for people who need to find the right
artwork. Makes you feel immediately at ease. Privacy is very important,
closed room for tattooing and she won't allow interruptions while she's
working. Barbara-her piercer and desk person is also very friendly.
ARTIST REVIEW #1 BY JAMI: SUZANNE FAUSER: BFA, MA Fine Art. Very
personable, used to be a school teacher and definitely has a way with
people. She has some incredible body art too.
Artist review #2 by Jean-Luc Reutter <reu...@igd.fhg.de>:
Suzanne has great custom designs, preferably black only or celtic.
Skilled artist but sometimes lacks motivation w/ smaller pieces;
results may vary in quality. Usually by appt only, very rarely walk-
ins. Sometimes guest artists. Nice friendly atmosphere.
Artist review #3 by Lance "Zaphod" Bailey <zap...@bcu.ubc.ca>:
She really doesn't specialize in Celtic stuff. Used to, but doesn't
any more--says her old eyes aren't good enough for it. Was in her shop
yesterday and she seemed pretty disinterested in doing Celtic stuff on
me. Maybe Celtic- inspired, but it's going to take some work from me
to get a design she's willing to do, & I'm willing to wear...sigh. But
she does specialize in being good :) I saw a wizard she did yesterday
and it was so very nice.
Piercer: Barbara
--==*-< >-*==--
MINNESOTA--Tattooing laws: unregulated.
ACME TATTOO CO, 1045 Arcade St, St. Paul, 612/771-0471
Reviewer: Erik Nelson <chi...@visi.com>
Expensive. Pre-designed tats are costly & other work is $200/hour (as
of '92). Acme's highlight used to be Dave Black. Dave however, has
moved onto another shop (see next entry).
ALLEY CAT TATTOO, 597 N Snelling Ave, St Paul, 55104
612/641-1663. Reviewer: Erik Nelson <chi...@visi.com>.
ARTIST REVIEW--DAVE BLACK: Even better than he used to be, and has
affordable prices ($125/hr as of 1/95). Very good with coverups, tho' he
also does black & grey, tribal, cartoons, and just about anything. He
does a lot of custom work, but also has flash available.
--==*-< >-*==--
OHIO--Tattooing laws: unregulated.
8-BALL TATTOO, 2593 Indianola Ave, Columbus 43202, 614/784-8850,
2-10 pm Tues-Sat. $30 min; $30 deposit; competitive prices. Cash
only. Reviewer: Janet Ingraham <jing...@freenet.columbus.oh.us>
SHOP REVIEW: Looks a bit on the shoestring side: fairly bare, folding
chairs etc. They DO have a Magic 8-Ball. NO flash on the walls!
Instead, they have a display of excellent bumper stickers by a local
artist (eg: "Warning: Mind Control Experiments next 5 Miles") and other
artwork. Shop is on the fringes of a cozy and settled part of town
(Clintonville). Friends come and hang out.
ARTIST REVIEW--ADAM "ATOMIZER" GRAY: Color work and cover-up. At 23, he
recently won his first national award for cover-up work. Eric
(apprentice): Accomplished local painter, will probably be most into
doing custom.
CHRONIC TATTOOAGE, 104 Cleveland St, Elyria, OH 44035, (216) 323-9656
Rate:m $80.00/hour, cash only.
Reviewed 12/95 by Monica Jones <dmo...@coil.com>
SHOP REVIEW: In a nice, safe neighborhood with parking behind the shop.
Entire staff is friendly and knowledgable, I felt very comfortable
walking in the first time. Tony works in a private cubicle with a door
for privacy, and holds himself and all his staff to a very high standard
of sanitation and professionalism.
ARTIST REVIEW--TONY DERIGO (owner): Tattooing professionally 3 years.
Experienced in various types of art (airbrush, acrylics, oils); much of
work he does are his original drawings. Have never felt as comfortable
with an artist as I do with Tony; has a knack for putting you totally at
ease. Actually fell asleep during my first sitting on my back piece.
TATTOOS BY WOODY, TOLEDO TATTOO, 2068 Airport Hwy, Toledo, 43609
419/382 8805. Reviewer: Jean-Luc Reutter <reu...@igd.fhg.de>
SHOP REVIEW: Needles autoclaved but I don't know about new ink for every
customer. Good custom designs, by appointment only, very reasonable
prices. Refuses to do swastika sh*t. Clean & friendly atmosphere.
VIKING STUDIOS, 1988 N High St, Columbus, 43210 614/294-1505
Cash and checks. Reviewer: Jennifer Engel (Jen Angel)
<enge...@postbox.acs.ohio-state.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: The shop is in the campus area and has a very professional,
yet unintimidating atmosphere that's probably due to the very easy-
going styles of Lars and Iggy (who works the front), both in their 20s.
The studio has no flash; is comfortable, easily accessible. The actual
studio where the work takes place is very clean and private.
ARTIST REVIEW--LARS JOHANSSON: Lars did some piercings on me, but I have
witnessed his work in progress and after completion. He does some really
amazing artwork and I respect him first as an artist and then as a
tattooer. I could not be more impressed with his attitude toward
tattooing and toward life in general. I feel the prices are very fair
and lower than other shops i have been in.
WISCONSIN: Statute @ 948-70 (1991-1992) prohibits tattoo artists from
tattooing "children" (age not specified--assume 18). Violators are
guilty of a Class D forfeiture. Otherwise unregulated.
Sheboygan
=========
T.O.C. TATTOOZ, 2525 N. 15th St., Sheboygan, WI 53081. 414-451-1109
Cost: $50/hour $30 minimum, cash.
Reviewer: Michelle Owen <mi...@execpc.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Quiet neighborhood, 4' high partition between waiting area
and tattooing area, autoclave, disposable needles and gloves, relaxed
atmosphere, smoking allowed, soda available.
ARTIST REVIEW--SCOTTY K.: Easy going, relaxed, helpful and suggestive
with design creation, superior use of shading, does work at a
comfortable pace, talkative and friendly.
U.S. SOUTHEAST
--==*-< >-*==--
ARKANSAS: State Annotated @ 5-27-228 (1993) allows the tattooing of
minors with the written consent of the minor's parent, legal guardian or
legal custodian.
DOC WALKER'S, Highway 71 S., West Fork, Arkansas 72774, (501) 839-8287
Reviewed by BrYan Westbrook <west...@hsnp.com> 8/96:A
Sanitation: by the book for Arkansas which is very stricy. Environment:
good, privacy: excellent, neighborhood: rural, secluded.
ARTIST REVIEW--SAMMI WALKER: Apprenticed with her husband, "Poco", who
founded the shop. was able to put me at ease with my first tattoo
experience. background in fine arts.
--==*-< >-*==--
FLORIDA
ANCIENT ART, (407) 855-TATU
Lance Bailey <zap...@bcu.ubc.ca> says he was happy w/ Mike.
TATTOO PARADISE, Lake Worth.
Reviewer: Sean Walsh <wal...@gate.net> says this is an excellent shop.
Very clean, professional. Visiting artists on a regular basis. Custom
work: $100/hour, but are worth it.
Artists:
Louie Lombi (owner)
Ed Lombi (Louie's brother).
--==*-< >-*==--
GEORGIA: Official Code of Georgia Annotated @ 16-5-71 (1993) states that
it is illegal to tattoo a person under the age of 16. Violators are
guilty of a misdemeanor. Also, OCGA @ 16-12-5 states that it is illegal
to tattoo within one inch of an eye socket. Otherwise unregulated.
BLACK CAT TATTOO, 5047 Suite B Memorial Dr. Stone Mountain, GA
30083. 404/292-8192. Reviewer: Rick Thompson <GIG...@aol.com>
Open 7 days/wk. Walk-ins welcome on weekends. Ave. $100/hr, depending
on type of work. Cash only
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean,they use autoclave and new needles.Each artist
has their own booth to work in. All of the artists are very friendly
and helpful.
ARTIST REVIEW--ALBEE (owner): I have had 6 pieces done by Albee, 2 of
which are large cover ups. One is a right upper arm oriental-style
sleeve, one a left full calf custom, one a left forearm dragon & wizard
piece,one a left shoulder snake and rose cover,one a left upper arm
eagle cover.
SHANE MORTON: I have only had one piece done by Shane but I am getting
ready to start another one.The one I have is a right calf black & grey
custom piece incorporating biomechanical, macabre, Shane Morton,I have
only had one piece done by Shane but I am getting ready to start another
one.The one I have is a right calf black & grey custom piece
incorporating biomechanical, macabre, and portrait.
Other artists: Mac, Tommy, Lesley
SACRED HEART TATTOO, INC. 483 Moreland Ave. (Ste 5, Hartz Bldg,
Little Five Points), Atlanta, GA 30307. 404/222-8385 M-Sa: Noon-
Midnight; S: Noon-10p. Minimum $40 (officially, not by the hour; but
from my experience I'd guess $100/hr) Cash or Visa/MC (no checks)
Reviewer: Paul Tod Rieger <pr...@abl.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Recommended to me by several RABbits. Very clean; well-
ordered. There's a side room if you want privacy. The neighborhood is
friendly and safe; the National Tattoo Association voted it the Best
Tattoo Studio 1995.
ARTIST REVIEW--TONY OLIVAS (owner): Black & grey. Work featured in
Tattoo (1/95), Tattoo Ink (3/94). I especially liked a blue color that
was in his portfolio. He was interested in my idea and took the time to
help me articulate it. Professional chairside manner Gave me a list of
care guidelines and discussed them with me.
Subtle Strokes Tattoo Studio, 4145 Houston Avenue, Macon
Ph: 912-785-1888
Reviewed 2/98 by Allison Altman <alik...@hotmail.com>
Shop Review: Subtle Strokes is one of the cleanest tattoo studios I've
ever been in. There is plenty of privacy where the actual work is
done. It has a large waiting area and tons of flash!There are two
artists: John & Lil' Rat.
Artist Review--Lil' Rat: Lil' Rat is very professional when he's
working. He has a good chairside manner. He has been tattooing since
1981, and he first worked for Sailor (Bill Kingsworth.)
--==*-< >-*==--
KENTUCKY:
Tatoo Charlie's, 470 New Circle Rd., N.E., Lexington
Ph: 606-254-2174
Reviewer: Kathy Cornelison <kcorn...@kpmg.com>
Shop Review: Tattoo Charlie's is the cleanest in Lexington. They have
two chairs in the open so patrons can watch tattoo's being
performed. They also have a curtained off section for those who wish
to be more discreet. The shop is located off of a major road, very
easy to find.
Artist Review--Mike Haney: He has been featured in several tattoo
magazines for his work and his tattoos. Very professional, explains
the process in detail before starting. I would highly recommend him to
anyone interested.
--==*-< >-*==--
LOUISIANA: Louisiana Revised Statutes 14:93.2 (1992) states that
tattooing minors under 18 is legal only with the consent of a parent.
Violators are fined $100 to $500. Otherwise unregulated.
New Orleans
===========
ELECTRIC EXPRESSIONS, 2327 Veterans Blvd. Ste B, Kenner, LA
70062. (504) 464-0053. Appointments preferred. $100/hr. Cash only
Reviewer: Douglas Pugh <hes...@mailhost.tcs.tulane.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Shop was very clean and well lit. Sanitary. Autoclaves. New
needles. 3 artists working when I was there. Some groupies hanging
around, but nothing too bad. Friendly to inexperienced people like
myself. Very non-intimidating. Curtains available for privacy.
Artist review #1 by Douglas--English Craig: I can only provide my
impressions as a person getting their first tattoo. Very nice, willing
to work with you if inexperienced. Explained everything he was doing.
Took his time. He has done work on myself and 4 of my friends, all
small, original pieces, and everyone was satisfied.
Artist review #2 by Lani Teshima-Miller <la...@lava.net> FAQ Maintainer
Henri: Considered one of the better artists in N'Awlins area,
personally recommended by Elayne Binnie (Rings of Desire below). We
visited this shop looking to get some work done, was told Henri lived
next door to the shop. We never got any work because Henri, knowing we
were there, made us wait for over an hour while he "took a shower"
(according to his apprentice). I looked at his flash--the work was
good--however I personally am not willing to patronize businesses that
think they can keep potential customers waiting in the lobby (he
could've easily let his apprentice tell us to come back in 2 hours).
Reviewed 3/97 by Cynthia Higginbotham <cyhi...@pipeline.com>:
SHOP REVIEW: Upstairs in small commercial building behind strip mall on
Metairie thoroughfare. Clean, well-lit; lots of flash
in front, portfolios on table. Work done in open area behind counter, s
creened area/separate room available. Clean bathroom in back of shop.
Artists wear gloves, have autoclave, stuff taken out of autoclave
packages when ready to use.
ARTIST REVIEW--MIKE VOLENTINE: Soft-spoken, polite, likes doing large
custom pieces of fantasy art. Patient in working thru numerous
revisions. Excellent artist. Technically adept and skilled in
color/shading. Thoroughly reviewed aftercare instructions, gave me a
copy. Very concerned that I follow thru with aftercare for proper
healing.
RINGS OF DESIRE, 1128 Decatur St. 2nd fl, New Orleans, LA 70116 Above
"Boomerang" (leather shop), 504/524-6147. Email: ebi...@aol.com
Reviewer: Lani Teshima-Miller <la...@lava.net> FAQ maintainer
This is a body piercing shop--tattoos are *NOT* done here. However the
shop owner, Elayne "Angel" Binnie, is the subject of a poster that
shows a tattoo of wings on her back--she also has her entire legs
covered with multi-hued fish scales, done by Juli Moon, that is a true
marvel to behold. If you're down in the French Quarter, visit her shop
just to say "Hi!", gawk at her tattoos and marvel at a true role model
in our bodyart world. She's off Mondays & Tuesdays. (Afterwards, go get
either a muffelata at nearby Central Grocery, or a "debris sandwich" at
Mother's and have cafe au lait & beignets at Cafe du Monde.)
--==*-< >-*==--
MISSISSIPPI
BUZZARD & SONS TATTOO, 103 Gardner Blvd. Columbus, MS Ph: 601/327-2901
Licensed by Mississippi State Board of Health. Another shop at 738
McFarland Blvd; another opening in Montgomery, AL. $150/hour for Buzzy
Cash. Reviewed 6/96 by: Cynthia Higginbotham <cyhi...@usa.pipeline.com>
SHOP REVIEW: In commercial area lined with small businesses. A bit
grubby looking; good sanitation on closer inspection: uses autoclave,
sterile needles kept in sealed packages until use, etc. Usual waiting
area with displayed flash, front desk. Restroom off waiting area.
Private room in back for tattooing & piercing.
ARTIST REVIEW--BASS: Apprenticed with his father, Buzzard. Tattooing for
about seven years. Friendly, lots of pierces and tattoos, fun to chat
with. He and my brother-in-law were trading sea stories all through the
tattooing (they're both ex-Navy guys who toured the same area).
Buzzy: Fine line work
Chris: New Age designs
Buzzard
--==*-< >-*==--
NORTH CAROLINA--Tattooing laws: Unregulated.
Carrboro
========
CHOICE PEACH TATTOO, 304-E . Weaver St Carrboro, NC 27516. 919/932-9888
is excellent. 100% original work, NO flash. By appointment only.
Reviewed 8/93 by Scott Jacobs <sja...@phoenix.cs.uga.edu>
Nothing but positive recommendations on the ability of the two artists.
They do *only* custom work, no flash. Tom and the other artist have
extensive photo albums of their work, and clippings from publications
featuring their work. Shop is small, very friendly. On-site autoclave.
My blackwork tribal piece from Tom has some of the sharpest edges I've
ever seen. Rates are reasonable, especially considering the amount of
consultations and drawings he did. Not limited to one style.
--==*-< >-*==--
OKLAHOMA: * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED *
Oklahoma 21 OKI. St. @ 841 (1992) BANS all tattooing across the state.
--==*-< >-*==--
SOUTH CAROLINA: * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED *
South Carolina Code Annotated @ 16-17-700 (1991) BANS tattooing across
the state, and violation of this is a misdemeanor.
--==*-< >-*==--
TENNESSEE
Memphis
=======
BEALE ST TATTOO, 333 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, 901-527-5436
Rate: $100 (min. $40), cash.
Reviewed 12/95 by Bob German <st...@krylon.org>
SHOP REVIEW: No privacy. Relatively clean. I watched him unwrap brand
new needles. Neighborhood? Well, it's Beale Street, and you have to
have been there to understand. It's the home of the Blues.
ARTIST REVIEW--JAMES FAUST: A little rough, but usually I'm OK with
that. POW/MIA stickers on tool cabinet, and an "Impeach Clinton - and
her draft-dodging husband, too!" sticker. Spent entire time talking
about being in the pen, putting his girlfriend in the pen, and dealing
drugs. Tattoo looked fine when he was done, but a week later the scabs
came off & was splotchy and uneven.
--==*-< >-*==--
TEXAS
Austin
======
ATOMIC TATTOO. 5533 Burnet Rd., Austin, TX 512/458-9693
Rate: $80-100/hr. Cash only.
Reviewed '95 by Robb McCauley <robert_...@aprdlgtr.sps.mot.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Shop is clean and well it. Usual flash on walls. A wall
separates the work cubes from the "front" of the shop and each cubicle
is separated from each other, with miniblinds for privacy. The piercing
room is separated from the rest of the shop, and has a door. The
autoclave is in the back, but visible.
ARTIST REVIEW--LARRY EDWARDS: Larry actually inked me, and has been
tattooing for 19 yrs. He was very helpful in finalising the work. His
chairside manner is good. He won Best Female Backpiece at the 2nd Texas
Tattoo Shootout this year.
MIKE BELZEL: Did the intial drawing for my tat. His artwork is great.
Dallas
======
TATTOOS BY GARY. 807-C W Moore, Terrell, TX 75160 214/563-0312
No set rate. Price set on image and work involved. Cash only,
competetive/negotiable.
Reviewer: Joy Ellen McManus <emi...@orion.etsu.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Dallas, in semi-rural Terrell. The shop takes on a psuedo
gawdy chic theme, full of couches and multiple artwork portfolio's. All
required equipment is sterilized thru autoclave and dry heat methods.
Lots of custom flash...
ARTIST REVIEW--GARY JACKSON: Fine detail work/Cover-up work. Tattooing
15+ years. Placed 2nd at 1989 Natl's convention for a full back piece. A
Texan through & through--will talk your ear off or work quietly--very
intuitive about customer's emotional state when tattooing. Very rarely
uses stencils, preferring to hand render images on skin before
tattooing.
Texarkana
=========
DERMOGRAPHICS, 1414 New Boston Rd, Texarkana, TX, (903) 793-2276.
All prices are by piece but relatively cheap; cash only.
Reviewed 9/96 by BrYan Westbrook <west...@hsnp.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Neighborhood is one of the less desireable in Texarkana,
privacy is non-existent as people off the street can walk over to the
work area and look in at any time, she told me that part of the reason
her shop is in the Texas side of town is that the regulations are more
lax than in Arkansas.
ARTIST REVIEW--SANDY AZANCOT: Most work is freehand, roughed out on the
body itself. The tattoo I received is not of the same proportions as the
original picture from which she was working. she spent a great deal of
the time chatting with friends while working on my tattoo.
U.S. EAST COAST
--==*-< >-*==--
CONNECTICUT: Connecticut General Statutes 53-41 (1991) makes it illegal
to tattoo minors under the age of 18 without parental consent. Otherwise
unregulated.
--==*-< >-*==--
MARYLAND: Tattooing laws: unregulated.
ARTISTIC CREATIONS, 2785F Ocean Gateway (US Rte 50 W) Salisbury, MD 21801
(410) 860-1999. Rate: $65/hr (varies); cash, credit cards (no checks).
Reviewed 9/96 by Katie Bevard <kbe...@skipjack.bluecrab.org>
SHOP REVIEW: Incredibly well kept. No Smoking. Work done in separate
room (1 private, 2 semi-private). Busy on weekends from beach traffic,
but very willing to discuss when time allows. Bruce's private work area
is very relaxing and comfortable, with separate stereo system and a ton
of CDs and great books to help ease anxiety.
ARTIST REVIEW--BRUCE GULICK: Very honest about what would/would not make
good tattoos due to size, detail, etc. 1.5 hours spent discussing/
drawing designs. Very quiet & thorough when working, taking his time.
Well worth it! Very patient and professional; made the entire "first
tatoo" experience a very memorable one!
DRAGON MOON TATTOO STUDIO, 208 N Crain Hwy, Glen Burnie, 21061;
410 768 6471. Rates: $100/hr. Cash or credit card, deposit required for
custom work.
Reviewed by Shayna Steinger <SSte...@osfms1.hq.nasa.gov>
SHOP REVIEW: A very pleasant place to get inked. Hyper-conscious about
safety and hygiene. All needles are autoclaved and all ink wells are
disposable. Tattoos are administered in a seperate room from the
reception area and in private divided rooms.
ARTIST REVIEW--MICK BEASLEY: Specializes in fine line. President of the
Alliance of Professional Tattooists and famous for her work. You have
her undivided attention and time the moment she begins. Insists time is
not an issue, will discuss designs in detail. We had a great rapport and
I felt confident about her work because her talent was so obvious and
she was so concerned that I be happy with the final product.
Reviewed 1/97 by Deborah Fleming <dfle...@iname.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Pleasant environment, workspace separate from waiting area.
Very good sanitation: my only complaint in fact was that the friend I
brought for moral support was not allowed back in the work area for
sanitary reasons (only artists and clients). Therefore very private as
well--workspace partitioned.
ARTIST REVIEW--CHRIS/PEE WEE: Friendly, offered good advice, willing to
let me chatter. Did beautiful job on knotwork, good shading. Let me look
at the progress (tat on my back, so involved stopping and giving me
mirror. Very encouraging when he found out this was first tattoo. Don't
remember his training, but he works for Mick Beasley, so I assume it was
pretty good.
GREAT SOUTHERN TATTOO CO., 9403 Baltimore Blvd. (Rt 1), College Park, MD
20740. 301/474-8820. Right off the Washington Beltway (495), right up
the street from the Univ. of Maryland College Park Campus.
Reviewer: Kristen Herzog <khe...@skidmore.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Operated by a family (Charley, Sandy, and Dee Parsons);
very relaxed atmosphere. Also done some of the best work I've seen in
the area.
Artist review #2 by Stan Schwarz <st...@cco.caltech.edu>: I had some work
done by Dee at the Houston convention (Summer '94). I found her to be
very pleasant to work with, and she did a nice job.
Artist/Shop review #3 by Andy Dwyer <adw...@mason1.gmu.edu>:
Charley estimated one price, & upped it halfway through. I'd only
gotten from the cash machine what he quoted, and didn't intend to pay
more than the original quote, so the work stopped unfinished. I
suppose it might have been my fault for not getting pissed about it
then. In talking to people about their experiences, they seem to
divide along gender lines. Those who were happy w/ the work were
women, while those unhappy were men. I've heard more than one of them
give the impression that the difference in service might be attributed
to being the only close option in a college town, and not needing to
do a high quality job for the typical frat guy client."
SOUTHERN MARYLAND TATTOO. 4433 Crain Hwy, White Plains. Ph: 301/645-0306
Reviewer: Kris Hakes <kmh...@gloria.cord.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: I opened the door and walked into a smoky haze that began
to bother my contacts w/in seconds. There were several people sitting
and talking at the desk, and I couldn't tell who worked there. I felt
that 2 of the guys were commenting about my appearance (I was wearing
my business clothes and none of my tattoos were visible). I gave one of
them my rough drawing (a set of straight lines). He went to talk to the
tattooist, who was working on a customer. The guy returned and told me
the tattooist didn't want to do a design that reflected poorly on him
as an artist. I can understand that, but the guy was very short with me
and not very helpful. [Note: I didn't speak directly to the tattooist.]
*RIGHT OF REPLY* 2/96 by Jason Auth <jas...@radix.net>, owner/operator
of SOUTHERN MARYLAND TATTOOS:
SMOKING: Some may not like it, but it is not unsanitary, and seems to
make my (smoking) customers feel more comfortable (we spared no
expense in a ventilation system).
RESPECT: EVERY person gets treated with respect in my studio. Being
tattooed, I know what it's like to be pre-judged. I'd never allow that
to happen in my establishment. I'd quietly remove from my shop any
worker (or friend) who made any bad comments to my customers.
DESIGNS: I'd rather have a customer upset over not getting a tattoo,
than get a piece from me that looks like crap. In this case, I believe
the reviewer took offense when I suggested cleaning up the crudely
drawn design.
--==*-< >-*==--
MASSACHUSETTS: * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED * BANNED *
Tattooing is illegal. Violators are fined with up to $300 and one year
in jail.
--==*-< >-*==--
NEW HAMPSHIRE: Tattooing of minors is illegal (considered "endangering
the welfare of a child"). Otherwise unregulated.
THE TATTOO SHOP, 109 Daniel St, Portsmouth 03801, 603/436-0805.
Reviewer: Fred Jewell <fr...@ksr.com>
Artists: Hobo, Tattoo George
Prices start at $40; ave $100. In business since '76; clean, use
sterile instruments 7 do good solid work.
SIGN OF THE WOLF, Wiers Beach NH, (603)366-2557
Reviewer: Fred Jewell <fr...@ksr.com>
Artists: Dave Sr., Dave Jr., several apprentices.
Friendly, laid back, would make you feel comfortable if anxious. So
clean you can eat off the floor. Dave Jr. has won a few awards. Range:
$100 to $350; average $260 for a fairly large piece. Specialize in
wildlife & American Indian art.
JULI MOON DESIGNS INC., Route 1, PO Box 1403, Seabrook 03874
603/474-2250; fax 603/474-7393. By appt only. Stevie: ~$100/hr. Julie:
$200/hr. Cash & check only, no plastic. $50 deposit required for first-
time clients. Free consultation.
Reviewer: Henry Knight <HKn...@banyan.com>
SHOP REVIEW: All work is custom and by appointment only. This is a very,
very, clean and professional shop. Note: The studio is no longer next
to Jim's Tattoo. They have moved across the street to a new gorgeous
and much larger place.
ARTIST REVIEW #1 BY HENRY--JULI MOON: Well known in the industry and
published all over the place, this very classy lady lives up to her
reputation, and is more than worth the wait (up to 9 months these days).
Pick up any magazine to see her work for yourself if you don'tbelieve
me. Truly amazing stuff.
STEVIE MOON: Makes me believe there's something to that genetics stuff
after all. A very personable and nice guy, this young tattooist's
reputation is growing--people are going to hear a lot about him very
soon. Color is definitely his strongest point. My back piece looks as
if it was airbrushed. Has a waiting list, but is much shorter than
Juli's. Does all of my work and I wouldn't think of going elsewhere.
Artist review #2 by Fred Jewell <fr...@ksr.com>: "What can you say about
Juli Moon except, "When?" She is booked a month in advance, and is truly
award winning."
BROTHERS TOO, South Broadway, Salem NH, Exit 1 Off Rt. 93. Licensed &
Board of Health Approved.
Reviewer: Fred Jewell <fr...@ksr.com>
Tattoo Frank scared me. Asked if he'd been vaccinated for Hep A & B he
said, "I only got hepatitis once and that was from a customer." His
brother, "Bennies Tattoos" is just down the street and seems to have the
same kind of attitude.
BILL'S TATTOO PALACE, Broadway , Derry NH, 603/437-8813
Reviewer: Fred Jewell <fr...@ksr.com>
Nice guy, but I set up an appointment & he didn't show! I called back,
and got someone who thought he was doing me a favor by talking to me.
Some of the work is really good but there seems to be a lot of new
people in the shop trying out the profession.
Scorpion Tattooing, Hillside Plaza RT28, Derry
Ph: 603-434-4798 http://members.aol.com//mhesse4875/index.html
Reviewed 2/98 by Maria Van Amburgh <maria...@aol.com>
Shop Review: Very clean shop. I felt like i was in a doctor's
office..everything was pure white. No smoking in the shop. No
food. Had plenty of flash and showed custom work from portfolio. Total
privacy on getting tattooed. Complete sterile conditions. Located in
mini mall. Plenty of parking, handicapped accessible.
Artist Review--Mark Hesse (owner): Mark Hesse was a really nice
man. Very easy to talked to, and listened to what i had to
say. Explained everything very professionally. He took his time doing
the tattoo, even though there was a waiting line, I will not go
anywhere else for my tattoo.
--==*-< >-*==--
NEW JERSEY: Tattooing laws: Unregulated.
LAST RITES TATTOO 201/402-2380. "Dark Images by Paul Booth"
You may be familiar with Paul Booth's black & grey work depicting gory
images of sacriligious objects. Although he'sonly been in the business
a few years, he seems to have exploded in infamy for his striking
images, aided in part bythe incredible work he's done on his rather
photogenic girlfriend, Barbara Valverde. The following recommendation
by Reviewer: Deborah Lynn De Graw <dg...@cwis.unomaha.edu>:
I have many tattoos by Paul Booth that I dearly love. I realize his
reputation of gruesome work may put off some people. While he usually
won't do colorwork, he's always been very willing and flexible for me
because he says it shows people he can do it. I was more than pleased
with my back piece, which has kept its color very well. He's sensitive
to my need for balance (symmetry) without my having to say so. He an
intelligent, superb artist who can take anything I give him and turn
it into the most beautiful piece of art. I feel extrememly lucky to
have found him before he became so popular. He's honest and always
careful about keeping everything sterile and safe!
--==*-< >-*==--
NEW YORK: Tattooing laws: Unregulated
AMERICAN SKIN ART, 472 Oliver St, Tonawanda NY 14120 716-694-9185
Reviewed 8/95 by Leslie Fontanna <impu...@buffnet.net>
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean, environment was very friendly and cheerful. The
neighborhood is pretty good. I have no complaints.
ARTIST REVIEW--ED WALKER: Used to work at Paul Massaro's shop, but
left to pursue own business. Very good w/ customers, very concerned
about getting them exactly what they want. Great chairside manner,
honest, and his work is excellent.
BIZZARO TATTOO--TATTOOS BY PAUL MASSARO, 1126 Hertal Ave, Buffalo
716-876-6200. Rate/hour: Approx $150.00
Reviewed 8/15/95 by Leslie Fontanna <impu...@buffnet.net>
SHOP REVIEW: Nice-looking place however, there are dogs running around
inside and around people who are getting tattooed.
ARTIST REVIEW--PAUL MASSARO: After making my appointment months in
advance, I ended up getting no work from him. At the studio, he would
not allow my boyfriend to stay with me. His initial drawing on my back
was too large (and the price quote went from the initial $150, to two
sessions of $150 each). When I asked to have it redrawn, he wiped the
drawing off and asked me to leave. We later went back to request a
refund on our deposit; however Paul would not speak to us. Fortunately,
we got our refund and an apology from his apprentice, Carl.
Updated 3/98 by Mike Cascio <chai...@ruff.com>
Shop Review: The shop was rather quiet and clean. Dogs are visible
through a screen door (the entrance to their house) quite far back out
of the way. They are *not* allowed in the shop. There's a chair up
front in full view of everyone, but my work was done in a small
secluded alcove with no room for observers.
Artist Review--Paul Massaro: Paul worked carefully and safely, gently
putting to rest any concerns or nervousness I expressed (since this
was my first tat). He seems to prefer to work silently rather than
talking, which was fine by me. If I remember correctly, the work I
had done took about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
BRUCE BART TATTOOING, Main Street, Tannersville, NY 12485.
(518) 589-5069. Second shop at: 274 Lark St., Albany, NY 12210
(518) 432-1905. Hours: M-F Noon-8pm, S/Su 11am-6pm.
Cost: $120/hr. $5 disposable (& autoclaved) needles, new ink for each
customer.
Reviewer: Kirsten Herzog <khe...@skidmore.edu>
Artists: Bruce Bart and Bruce Kaplan
Specializes in Japanese, modern primitive, colorwork, Celtic. Prefers
appts, but will take walk-ins if not busy. Lark St. shop looked like a
dentist's office. Very friendly, totally receptive. Impressed by the
ready art & sketches in the waiting room. Seemed very professional.
PAT'S TATS, 102 Mill Hill Rd, Woodstock, 12498. 914/679-4429.
Pat Sinatra: pats...@aol.com (not sure if this is current). Pat is
the owner--she is also VP of the Alliance of National Tattooists,
whose primary concern is informationdissemination on disease
transmission and sterilization. Note: Pat only checks her email on
Fridays.
THUNDER ROSE TATTOO, INC, 96 W. Main St (route 25) Smithtown, NY,
(516) 361-5300. Cash, major credit cards.
Reviewed 7/96 by Chasity Stewart <cste...@acsu.buffalo.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean and sterile. Artists opened fresh needles and
poured fresh ink right in front of us. Very open and airy - made me feel
very comfortable. No smoking/pets/other nasties I have heard about in
RAB. Lots of flash and tribal pieces on the walls to look at while you
are waiting.
ARTIST REVIEW--JIMMY (owner): Personable, keeps you informed and makes
conversation while working. Explained sterilization/safety procedures
PRIOR to work. On several occasions during my four-hour stint he
consulted other potential clients. Very willing to work with clients,
open to suggestions. A very good custom/free-lance artist as well.
New View Tattoo, Rt.9W, Highland
Ph: 914-691-8282 http://www.bodyartist.com
Reviewed 4/98 by Paul Fitzgibbons <pfitz...@aol.com>
Shop Review: The shop is clean and orderly. It was being scrubbed
down as I arrived. The environnment is is made comfortable and easy.
There is a couch, TV and coffee as desired. Good privicy. The
neighborhood is on a main highway but a little secluded, away from any
downtown area.
Artist Review--Tom: Tom did a fantastic job on my tattoo. Not only
did he design a product that came out spectacularly, but his
profesional manner made the process that much easier. He is, I
believe, a former accountant turned tattoo artist who loves his work
and it shows. As this was my first tattoo, he kept me well informed
thoughout the enitre process. What also helped is that he is close to
my age. I cannot say enough praises for him and would whole heartly
recommend him. I will use him again.
--==*-< >-*==--
PENNSYLVANIA: 18 Pennsylvania C. S. @ 6311 makes it illegal to tattoo
minors under 18 without parental consent. Violations are considered a
third degree misdemeanor. Otherwise unregulated.
Easton
======
PLEASURE AND PAIN TATTOO & BODY PIERCING, Main Street in Easton.
610/252-7316. (About 2 hours north of Philadlephia)
Hours: 3:00pm to Midnite, closed Mondays. Cash only; all nondisposables
autoclaved, rest trashed. Rates: Smaller pieces $30-$50; Larger pieces
$60/hr starting (the larger the piece, the lower per hour cost).
Reviewer: Sean Maguire <mag...@dolphin.upenn.edu>
Standard flash available. The owner (Tom Waltymeyer) works out of the
shop with 2 other artists.
Philadelphia
============
BODYGRAPHICS, 627 S. 4th St. (btwn South & Bainbridge)
Philadelphia, PA 19147. 215/923-5834
Rate: Varies with artist. Cash only
Reviewed 10/95 by Joshua Burgin <jos...@netaxs.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Immaculately clean, well-lit and sharp looking. Nice large
bathroom for customers. Two chairs for tattooing areas, behind a
counter that separates the work area. Private area walled off from main
room available for privacy. In a pleasant, if busy neighborhood, right
off of South Street.
ARTIST REVIEW--BILL FUNK: Custom work, tribal. Tattooing for 16 yrs.
Comes from large tattoo family (father is Philadelphia Eddie). Amazing
degree of imagination, perception. Real visual accuity when fleshing out
vague designs. Pleasant to talk to, has a good sense of humor while
remaining professional throughout the process. 100% recommended!!
PHILDELPHIA EDDIE'S TATTOO, 605 S. 4th St., Philadelphia, PA.
215/851-9122. Rate: $150/hr. Cash only
Reviewed 3/95 by Aaron Pawlyk <aa...@ccat.sas.upenn.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Excellent shop, one of the cleanest on South St. Proper
sterilization equipment and set-up. Very hygenic. Smoking IS allowed
(yeah!). Several artists and storefronts available and piercing on
the premises. Best display of flash on the walls I've seen in the city.
Some semi-private and private booths with curtains available.
ARTIST REVIEW--JERSEY JOE: Highly recommended. Does very good
black-work, which comes out very black. Excellent in all regards: Very
good with customers, professional and has a good sense of humour.
Tattooing 30+ yrs. Makes one feel at ease and was willing to do a design
a few other artists said would be very difficult to do.
Pittsburgh
==========
BODY WORKS TATTOO STUDIO, 106 Nelbon Ave. Pittsburgh, PA
412/731-3462; 412/468-8287. Cost: $100/hr. $40/min
Reviewer: Jack Briggs <c...@moose.erie.net>
SHOP REVIEW: Totally clean, no drinking or drugs on the premises.
Smoking outside only. Hospital sterilization, sanitation is an
imperative part of the job for all artists there. Mention this review
in the Tattoo FAQ when you visit the shop.
ARTIST REVIEW--JON TOROK: Very personable artist who makes the customer
feel very at ease. First-timers are always comforted and never rushed.
Always takes time to perfect the piece before he tattoos. Your
satisfaction is his, too. I can't recommend him highly enough.
State College
=============
ART OF THE AGES,103 S. Pugh St., State College PA 16801, 814-231-3930
Cost: $100/hour, cash/credit.
Reviewed 1/97 by Audrey Lynne Smith <al...@psu.edu>
SHOP REVIEW: Very clean, inspected and licensed by the Health Dept. Phil
opens the autoclaved sterile needles in front of you. Rooms very
private, and he is very professional about tattooing or piercing "under
the clothes" areas. The shop is in downtown State College--I consider
it to be always safe to walk around here alone, even at night.
ARTIST REVIEW--PHIL: Former glass etcher, had alot of practice doing
fine detail with a steady hand. Usually cheerful, friendly, willing to
answer questions, tends to underestimate the time it will take to do
your piece--since you pay beforehand, this means you get charged less
than it should have cost you.
--==*-< >-*==--
RHODE ISLAND
ELECTRIC INK TATTOO, 153 Waterman Ave, E. Providence, RI
401-435-3393. From: Jesse Leigh Parent <jes...@WPI.EDU>
Needles autoclaved (required by RI law). New needles/ink for
every customer. Cash, VISA and MC; walk-ins welcome.
ARTIST REVIEW--CHRIS BORGE <chris...@enest.com>: All-around great
tattoo artist. Specializes in tribal; probably the best in the shop.
SKOTT GREENE: Great for custom to a greater extent. Doing them since
Dec '92, already very adept; the one to see about great custom
designs. (Trained as an airbrush artist)
JOHN MONEZ: no longer permanent artist as of 9/94 but still comes in
occasionally as fill in.
DEAN II: Formerly of Artistic Tattoo of Providence, RI
Note: Don L. no longer works out of Electric Ink as of 11/93.
--==*-< >-*==--
VERMONT:
Body Art Tattoo and Piercing Studio, 178 Main St., Burlington
Ph: 802-863-7870
Reviewed 2/98 by Aron Chamberland <ar...@hotmail.com>
Shop Review: Very clean and sanitary, great tribal artwork and all
around relaxing atmoshere. Artist have their own private rooms. All
artists make you feel very comfortable they're also willing to work
with to design your own custom work.
Artist Review--Shamus: Shamus was my artist. He was so great on my
first tattoo, it was my main reason for coming back to him. He's been
Tattooing for over 20 years. He tells you exactly what he's going to
do and when it's happening he is very soothing if he feels you are
nervous. Shamus is very generous and has a couple artist interning
right now.
--==*-< >-*==--
VIRGINIA:
Body Art Tattoos, 8 Chalmers Ct, Berryville
Ph: 540-955-0111
Reviewed 1/98 by David Meeks <tat...@dazedandconfused.com>
Shop Review: Friendly environment, autoclave sterilization, privacy if
you want it, and a nice neighborhood.
Artist Review--Tom Painter: He is very friendly and clean he gets too
know all of his clients. He will work with you so you get what you
came for. Member of the APT, and he's been tattooing for i think 17
years.
--==*-< >-*==--
WEST VIRGINIA:
Thinkin Ink Studio of Tattoo, 508 Race Street, Fairmont
Ph: 304-366-1279
Reviewed 2/98 by Jason Cooper <jco...@csee.wvu.edu>
Shop Review: Shop is well-lighted, clean, and a no-smoking
environment. If you or the tattoo you're getting requires privacy, the
artist's areas can accomodate that need. No wall flash - all art is in
books or laminated pages. Room for 5 people to browse at one time.
Artist Review--Dan: Dan is a well-mannered and talented artist. He is
currently working on a Physics degree (part-time). He has worked at
Thinkin Ink for four years under the guidance of Youngen. His
chairside manners are excellent with good conversation. He is also
willing to discuss designs and custom peices which he prefers over
flash.
CANADA
--==*-< >-*==--
BRITISH COLUMBIA
UNIVERSAL TATTOO, 613 Johnson St., Victoria, BC. Ph: 604-995-0313
C$100/ hour with free touch-ups if needed. Cash only
Reviewed 4/96 by: Zack McDonald <zack.ma...@compucom.islandnet.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Lobby floor newly renovated! Shop looks like a skater shop
by the flash and decor. Work cubicles are private if you desire. There
is an autoclave for each artist, and are well used. New needles, ink, &
gloves, with a fresh pair of gloves when anything unclean is handled.
The artists tattoo areas are never less than spotless.
ARTIST REVIEW--JEFF SLAUENWHITE: Specializes in black & grey work. A
fairly new tattooist, 3 years professionally. Apprenticed with Geof
Briggs. Sense of humor and professional attitude blend together
beautifully at chairside. Everything I have by him is custom, and they
turned out great. I even brought my mother to him for a birthday tattoo.
I'd recommend him to anyone.
--==*-< >-*==--
ONTARIO
BLUE DRAGON TATTOO, 253 Wellington, London, 519-434-4706
Reviewer: Lance "Lydia Awards" Bailey <zap...@bcu.ubc.ca>
Busiest shop in town, does a lot of flash work. Found them either
pretty grumpy/opinionated or at times friendly.
NIGHTHAWK TATTOO AND GALLERY, 82 Norfolk St. Guelph, Ontario
Canada N1H 4J2; ph. 519/767-0801. Payment with cash only. Sanitary;
work area curtained off.
Reviewer: Johanna Botari <ae...@freenet.carleton.ca>
SHOP REVIEW: Pleasant environment, nice lounge, lots of cushions--
Welcoming to the curious and the enthusiast. Actual art gallery for
local artists. Info on local arts scene, health authorityinfo on safe
sex (free condoms!)/drugs/crisis services distributed by shop. Customer
oriented, regardless of customer.
ARTIST REVIEW--LAURIE STEWART: Specializes in wildlife/nature. 4 years
on her own, fine art background. Pleasant and comfortable manner.
Patient, spends much time w/ customers working out exactly thedesign(s)
they want. Apprenticed ~1yr with another local, whosestudio she left due
to lack of sanitation and manners, and willnot discuss beyond that. Note
of interest: No art on herself.
REAL TATTOOS BY ZAP, 1043 Second Avenue East (at Rear), Owen Sound
Ontario, Canada N4K 2H8 Ph: 519/371-8088
Rate: $120.00 Canadian per hour, cash only
URL: http://network.sos.on.ca/~grphedge/business/zap/zap.html
Reviewed 6/96 by: Kenneth Thomson <hark...@log.on.ca>
SHOP REVIEW: In a bright new building with two rooms for privacy. At
Zap's request, shop has been checked out by the local Health Board . He
wears gloves and use new needles.
ARTIST REVIEW--AL "ZAP" ZIMMERMAN: Tribal, oriental, traditional, custom
work. Has been in the field for 10 yrs, and has a background in
college-level design. Loves a tattooing challenge (e.g. coverup) and
will talk about the fine points of tattooing with anyone. Takes pride in
his work. Portfolio available for perusal. Especially likes custom work.
TATTOO ART BY GEORGE LEWIS. 244 King St S, Waterloo, Ont.
N2J 1R4 (519) 576-8054. Visa/Mastercard accepted.
According to their card: Ultra modern; sterile conditions; modern
designs--fine line; cover-up work; custom work; lifetime guarantee.
Appts only. Also does pierces.
Reviewer: Judy Carr <jca...@mach1.wlu.ca>
Artists: George Lewis, Ken Lewis, Todd Evans.
Tho' I don't know much about 'good' or 'bad' tattoos, believe mine are
very well done!
TATTOOS BY GYPSY <does not list address>, 519-453-0822
Reviewer: Lance "Lydia Awards" Bailey <zap...@bcu.ubc.ca>
Tony is pretty young & is a design artist. I've created some really
nice work w/ him starting w/ my rough sketches. but his work is pretty
uneven; can be really good or really bad.
TATTOOS UNLIMITED, 847 Dufferrin, 519-672-8025
Reviewer: Lance "Lydia Awards" Bailey <zap...@bcu.ubc.ca>
Al Newcombe has been tattooing in London for a looong time. His work is
mostly flash, can create stencils from your artwork. His work tends to
have a '50s feel--the stuff you see on ex-seamen.
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QUEBEC
TATOUAGE ARTISTIQUE, 1962 Ontario E, Montreal, 514/529-TATU.
CAN$100 / hr (~US$65). Cash only
Reviewed 6/95 by: Mark Reynolds <70031...@compuserve.com>
SHOP REVIEW: Wide selection of flash, but apparently do a lot of custom
and cover-up work (they have photos of some very nice work). Often has
visiting guest artists. 'Hospital' type sterilization with an autoclave
and always single-use needles. They pull the tubes &needle bars from
'claved bags and assemble the machine in front of you. Very clean, and
very reassuring.
ARTIST REVIEWS--KEITH STEWART (owner): Tattooing 20 yrs, apprenticed
at Pt. St. Charles Tattoos for 13+ years before opening own shop in
Montreal. Organizer/sponsor of the Montreal Int'l Tattoo Expo for 2
years. Member of NTA, APT ,etc. Reserved but approachable.
RANDY STEWART (Keith's son): Tattooing 5+ years, apprenticed with
father. Laid back & easy going, but meticulous. While he was working on
me I asked him to 'add a bit of this color here, leave this area
untouched', etc., he complied without making me feel like a pain. That
may be common among tattoo artists, but I'm easily impressed by true
professionalism.
EUROPE/UK
London
======
NEW WAVE TATTOO, 157 Sydney Road, Muswell Hill, London N10 2NL.
Tel: 0181-444 8779. Hours: 10:30 to 5:30, works on appointment only,
except Saturdays when its first-come first-served. 10 pounds sterling
deposit with all appointment bookings.
ARTIST REVIEW--Reviewed 11/95 by: Anna Beint <anna....@eng.ox.ac.uk>
LAL HARDY: I'm absolutely delighted with my tat, a custom job (just
took in a picture and told him how I wanted it to look). He sent me
the design for approval, also telling me how long it would take and
how much it would cost before I had to commit myself to an
appointment. Reviewer: Andy Richardson <A.Rich...@cs.ucl.ac.uk>
LAL HARDY: Has been tattooing for 17 yrs altogether with 14 yrs at the
current studio. He has won many awards (I counted at least 4 from just
the last 3 months) and is probably the best known artist in London if
not the UK. His walls are covered with certificates from associations
from all around the world. He said that he enjoys Celtic work
especially, but really just likes working with customers on their own
designs and meeting people who come in for whatever reason. A very
cool bloke who knows his stuff.
MARTIN CLARK: Has been tattooing for 4 years and is a trained graphic
artist (also does airbrushing and pencil art). Again, although he does
not have any style, he particularly enjoys black and white work and
fantasy/gothic stuff (my description).
Both prefer to do custom work. I have gotten all my stuff here, as this
is the friendliest studio that I have found so far. Lal organises the
Dunstable Tat Expo every year, is billed as the friendliest expo in the
world. There are no charges for consultation or drawing out of ideas.
They do not work on drunks, and do not tattoo hands, necks or faces.
They'll do touch ups or repairs on their work for free. I was very
impressed with how down to earth they both are.
DENNIS COCKEL, Walkers' Court London W1 (a small side street in Soho).
Reviewer: Andy Richardson <A.Rich...@cs.ucl.ac.uk>
Tattooed myself and a girlfriend about four years ago and we are both
very satisfied.
MARK AND ANDY, Kensington Market, London W8.
Reviewer: Andy Richardson <A.Rich...@cs.ucl.ac.uk>
Their designs were drawn by several artists over many years, claim to
do award winning custom work & my opinion is they are good. The parlor
is on the basement of the market building; doesn't have anyname (as I
remember); not listed on yellow pages.
SAINT'S PARLOR, Portobello Road, London
Reviewer: Andy Richardson <A.Rich...@cs.ucl.ac.uk>
Warning: He had some photos of tattoos he had done that at first looked
ordinary, but if you look more closely, you can see he has *redrawn*
parts of the design on the photo afterwards by pen. At least I wouldn't
trust on a tattooist who does that!
INTO YOU, 144 St Johns Street, London EC1V 4UA, 071 253 5085
Reviewer: Dan Chalmers <etl...@etlxd30.ericsson.se>.
Dave Stanford <da...@d-stanfd.demon.co.uk> reports that as of 4/97,
tattoo artists are Alex Binnie, Curly and Myles. Piercing also
available. The studio hours are 12:00 noon to 7:00pm Tuesday to Friday
and noon to 6:00pm Saturday.
ARTIST REVIEW--ALEX BINNIE (tribal/abstract): Alex may be known to
those in the US as he has traveled to various shops here. He does mostly
tribal and abstract stuff.
Piercer: Cushla Adamson.
Reading
=======
T.A.T.S., 160 Oxford Road, Reading, Berks, RG1 7PJ, 01734 598616
Rate: ^\50 (aprox), Cash/Cheque (with card)
Reviewed 6/96 by David Thompson <dtho...@chelt.ac.uk>
SHOP REVIEW: Clean and friendly, not traditional 'dive'. Easy to get to:
Close to town centre and on a main bus route. Inside, there are plenty
of designs and photos to get a feel for Ian's work, including award
winners "Mad Hatter's Tea Party" and the Gorrilas back piece. Work is
done in a seperate room for privacy.
ARTIST REVIEW--IAN OF READING: Internationally well-known. Involved in
arranging tattoo expos (e.g. Dunstable). Freehand control of line/colour
brilliant. Incredible photo-realistic work. Can interpret original
designs with flair, discusses ideas thoroughly. If you go, make sure to
say you heard of him through the 'net, and David sent you!
SCOTLAND
--------
TERRY'S TATTOO STUDIO, 23 Ghisholm, Glasgow G1 5HA, UK Tel 0141/552-5740.
Reviewer: Andy Richardson <A.Rich...@cs.ucl.ac.uk>
Three artists in 1992: Terry, Stuart, & Steven--Quite popular. The
ready-made designs were nice & my boyfriend is very satisfied w/ his
tattoo. A first-timer can feel comfortable, since it looks like an
ordinary shop w/ show window & quite large, light waiting room for
customers.
EUROPE--POLAND
(ACID SHOP) STUDIO TATTOO. ul. Ogrodowa 20, 61-820 Poznan,
Poland Phone: 522-851. Hours: 11:00am-9:00pm.
Needles sterilized via pressurized steamer (120C)
Reviewer: Ulf Nagel <ul...@dhhalden.no>
ARTIST REVIEW--SLAWEK SLAVOMIR: Has been tattooing since 1990, when
Poland & Russia were introduced to a free market economy. The only other
person in Poland who has been tattooing longer (6 years)is in Gdansk.
Slawek is yet to refine a specialization. He recently won an award at a
German tattoo convention.
EUROPE--AUSTRIA
TATTOO DEMON, Turnergasse 15, A-1150, Vienna; ph. 0043-1-893 38 06
Payment with cash only. Rate equivalent to $100/hr.
Reviewer: Herbert Paulis <h.pa...@magnet.at>
SHOP REVIEW: New needles and colors on every customer, otherwise sterile
equipment. Artists also use doctor's gloves. There is a private tattoo
room and two public tattoo places where artists can be watched during
work. Shop is placed in a fair residental district in the middle of
Vienna, next to a park. Apart from Berni two permanently employed and
frequently several guest artists.
ARTIST REVIEW--BERNI LUTHER (Travellin' Berni): Specializes in big
pieces, cover-up work. Berni is a terrific artist who does also a
tremendous job at designing unique pieces for a customer. His needle
work is famous esp. for his shadowing techniques. Appointment is
absolutely necessary, commonly several months in advance. Although a
great artist, he is sometimes very rude to his customers and misses
appointments. Still worth the trouble if you get an appointment!
ASIA--JAPAN
TATTOOING BY HORI WAKA, Green Haitsu (sic--"Heights") Asakusa
601, 2-19-9, Nishiasakusa, Taitou-ku, Tokyo, 111, Japan.
38-3844-6002
Horiwaka uses both traditional Japanese , as well as the gun.
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This ends "rec.arts.bodyart: Tattoo FAQ 5/9--Artist List." This should
be followed by "rec.arts.bodyart: Tattoo FAQ 6/9--Care of new tattoos."