Tattoo Artists I Like... Inspired by Lone_Wolf's "Tattoos! WTF!?" Thread

This is a friend of mine. He did a couple for me before he moved to California.

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Funky... That style isn't for me, but your buddy has chops.

I am currently tattoo free, but I have one drawn out that I really want to get someday. I took the drawing concept to the supposedly “best tattoo artists” in the St Louis area to have it done. I walked in the parlor to get this done along with my older daughter. His Parker was packed. I showed the “best artist tattoo dude” what I wanted. He looked at it and told me, “You don’t want that. It has too much difference within the art”. I told him that this is in fact what I am looking for because it tell a story about me, my family, and just how much I love them and the extent that I would go through in protecting them. He again told me that I didn’t want that. I then told him that he was supposed to be the Best in St Louis. He affirmed that he was. I then told him that, in my mind, you are probably the best at making revenue off of tatoos, but you certainly are NOT AN ARTIST. Thanked him and walked out. So, when I can find me a true artist that is good at tattoos, then I will get mine.

The only tattoo I may consider is a tasteful small ‘DNR’ above my heart. (probably both in English and in Spanish.)

Mister... I've seen that before. I talked to an EMT who stated that he'd probably resuscitate even with the presence of that tattoo, because he'd hate to find out afterwards that "DNR" is a loved one's initials or something like that.

Perhaps more effective if incorporated into a red cross or medical symbol, or spelled out completely.

Nidan... Without seeing your concept art, I'm not able to be completely sympathetic. When tattoo artists hit a certain level of talent and popularity, they're turning down more work than they're taking on. And their schedule is still packed.

So, if the concept art isn't their cup of tea (for whatever reason), they'll take a pass. They'll also take a pass if the style isn't in their wheelhouse. I wouldn't take a woodcut tattoo concept to an artist known for bright, full color anime / cartoon-style tattoos, because that artist would (rightfully) show me the door.

Don't look for the best tattoo artist in X area. Look for the best artist in that particular style, then see if that person can recommend someone in your region.

Here you go Ishmael. This is Chris Huff. My guy Mike was in his shop when he was getting started.

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Heidi Furey (also... hot babe)

I'd be pissed if this one gave me a tattoo. She really fucked up on one of those tats.

Her tattoo had a guy with 4 eyes. That's worse than a 6th toe or 2 left feet.

Nice. Chris Huff's work is closer to what I like.