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Karen's Tattoos Blog

By Karen L. Hudson, About.com Guide to Tattoos since 1999

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.

Comments

June 29, 2006 at 10:48 pm
(1) Beth Williams says:

Kenny Young by far. The guy is super talented!

January 17, 2007 at 3:29 am
(2) adam says:

that was the least helpful answer ever.

February 9, 2007 at 6:12 am
(3) Emily says:

check out tom renshaw, this guy knows his stuff! if money is no object he’s your man

March 28, 2007 at 9:40 pm
(4) D Man says:

Juli Moon Lynn, MA….she also does work for Shriners Burn Center,and cosmetic…check out her site

March 30, 2007 at 9:57 pm
(5) bobino says:

that was indeed not helpful at all.

May 9, 2007 at 2:15 pm
(6) Robert says:

Is there any good artists in the Kansas City Area? Or would a trip ned to be taken for a good tattoo?

May 14, 2007 at 7:08 pm
(7) Charisse says:

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

June 4, 2007 at 2:23 am
(8) Tuan says:

Johnny Peterson from alienskin tattoo in dayton, oh. has been rated as onbe of the best tattoo artist according to tattoo mag

June 16, 2007 at 9:34 pm
(9) arieli arpino says:

the best is jonathan shaw.

June 27, 2007 at 1:38 pm
(10) casey says:

Kari Barba is the best tattoo artist!! Her long beach shop is amazing

July 30, 2007 at 10:31 am
(11) deva says:

I’m looking for a tattoo artist in the Washington DC Metro area who can work well with original designs. Any suggestions?

February 13, 2008 at 12:15 am
(12) Amanda says:

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.

April 9, 2008 at 12:13 pm
(13) ruben says:

mr cartoon baby the best in the world

April 16, 2008 at 4:53 am
(14) steady craig says:

all those mentioned are great artists!there is no best one.. Only the best you can be.

July 3, 2008 at 1:11 am
(15) blairbear says:

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

August 10, 2008 at 11:50 am
(16) Big J says:

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)

September 15, 2008 at 8:03 pm
(17) Johnny J says:

I’ve enter all sites from all names entered here and must say… Kari Barba is awesome

October 13, 2008 at 2:10 am
(18) kevin says:

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.

January 17, 2009 at 2:30 pm
(19) julio B. says:

that all depends what you want. i stick with mistercartoons in LA and im from chicago. you have to be picky!

January 23, 2009 at 4:33 pm
(20) Josh says:

Mike Devries and Bob Tyrell are the sickest artists out there…

March 14, 2009 at 1:33 am
(21) v_tijerina says:

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

June 29, 2009 at 11:27 am
(22) Cassidy says:

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

July 22, 2009 at 11:20 am
(23) ism@el says:

Paul Booth is the best

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