Question of the Week - Who's the Best Tattoo Artist?
Sunday January 1, 2006
Q: I am a 41-year-old professional with no tattoos. Thinking of getting a very good one. Price is no object. Who in your mind is the best tattoo artist in the continental United States?
A: I actually get asked this question a lot - who I think is the best tattoo artist. The answer really isn't that simple, because the key is to find the right artist for you. Do you want a male artist or a female artist? What kind of tattoo are you looking for? Every artist has their own specialty - some artists are best at portraits, some dominate in old school style, some are known for their macabre masterpieces and others are best at Celtic designs. Then it also comes down to finding an artist that you personally click with - someone you feel comfortable with, someone who translates your vision properly, and someone that you can see yourself spending a few hours or more with while getting your tattoo.
I can't tell someone who would be the best artist for them. I have my own personal favorites, but that doesn't necessarily mean they are the best artist for someone else. Take the time to interview potential artists and find out what their specialties are. Make sure you know what you want and find the artist you feel best suits your needs. Be willing to pay for quality, be willing to travel if necessary, and don't be afraid to walk away at any point from someone you don't feel 100% comfortable with.
A: I actually get asked this question a lot - who I think is the best tattoo artist. The answer really isn't that simple, because the key is to find the right artist for you. Do you want a male artist or a female artist? What kind of tattoo are you looking for? Every artist has their own specialty - some artists are best at portraits, some dominate in old school style, some are known for their macabre masterpieces and others are best at Celtic designs. Then it also comes down to finding an artist that you personally click with - someone you feel comfortable with, someone who translates your vision properly, and someone that you can see yourself spending a few hours or more with while getting your tattoo.
I can't tell someone who would be the best artist for them. I have my own personal favorites, but that doesn't necessarily mean they are the best artist for someone else. Take the time to interview potential artists and find out what their specialties are. Make sure you know what you want and find the artist you feel best suits your needs. Be willing to pay for quality, be willing to travel if necessary, and don't be afraid to walk away at any point from someone you don't feel 100% comfortable with.


Comments
Kenny Young by far. The guy is super talented!
that was the least helpful answer ever.
check out tom renshaw, this guy knows his stuff! if money is no object he’s your man
Juli Moon Lynn, MA….she also does work for Shriners Burn Center,and cosmetic…check out her site
that was indeed not helpful at all.
Is there any good artists in the Kansas City Area? Or would a trip ned to be taken for a good tattoo?
Kat Von D is doing a spin off show from Miami Ink called LA Ink. If you are interested in being tatooed on TV send your story, a photo and your phone number to:
LA_Ink_casting@yahoo.com
Johnny Peterson from alienskin tattoo in dayton, oh. has been rated as onbe of the best tattoo artist according to tattoo mag
the best is jonathan shaw.
Kari Barba is the best tattoo artist!! Her long beach shop is amazing
I’m looking for a tattoo artist in the Washington DC Metro area who can work well with original designs. Any suggestions?
D.C. – go to Jinx Proof on M st in Georgetown.
for the best tattoo artist out there check out Kevin Quinn. He does a lot of celebs and has his own shop in L.A.
mr cartoon baby the best in the world
all those mentioned are great artists!there is no best one.. Only the best you can be.
go to anil gupta in nyc..hes insane and his work was featured on ripleys believe it or not bc of his talents. hes known for being able to do any renaissance painting but he can do anythin
There are some pretty cool DVDs that interview tattoo artists from all over the world who win awards at many of the tattoo conventions around the country. Art Intensity Network (tattoo video Magazine)
I’ve enter all sites from all names entered here and must say… Kari Barba is awesome
Yes, the answer was absolutely not helpful. However, these comments are…thanks. I am looking for an artist who specializes in marine/ocean scene sleeves or similar. I would fly anywhere in the US for the right artist. Any help is greatly appreciated.
that all depends what you want. i stick with mistercartoons in LA and im from chicago. you have to be picky!
Mike Devries and Bob Tyrell are the sickest artists out there…
I would say Delbert Peņa, he’s in Heart And Soul Tattoos in Pearsall, Tx. He has a myspace..look him up:) HES BADA*s
Anybody know where I can find the artist “DAMMNICE”? His prices are outstanding, but his work is amazing! Last I recall, he’s in New York City. email me @ trancenhancer@yahoo.co.uk
Cass
Paul Booth is the best