Needle Shock: Yes it’s a Real Thing

Last modified on 2010-06-23 04:52:57 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

 

According to the University of Minnesota’s Center for Spirituality and Healing, “needle shock” is defined as the following:

“…a feeling of faintness, chilliness and perhaps slight nausea. Needle shock happens rarely, but when it does, it is most likely to happen in situations in which the patient is very nervous about the needles, is extremely exhausted or fatigued, or is experiencing low blood sugar from not having eaten for a long period of time before the acupuncture treatment.

Needle shock can be disquieting to the patient but is not considered harmful.”

Eating a well-balanced meal before your tattoo or piercing session is one of the best ways to prevent needle shock.  Most of the time there is something sweet for you to chew on at the shop but I wouldn’t count on it.  If you need nearby restaurant recommendations for a pre-tattoo feast, there is no better place to look than a bunch of tattoo artists.

The more you know.

Too Many Good Things Happening~

Last modified on 2010-06-23 03:43:59 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Is it really possible to have too many good things happening at once? Yeah, I don’t think so.

Along with the Grand Re-Opening Party happening on Sunday, there are lots of other fun things going on to keep your weekend busy.

1. We will be celebrating our grand re-opening all weekend and to say thank you for being loyal friends, we are offering 20% off EVERYTHING in the shop.  There’s only one thing you have to do: print out and bring in a copy of this flyer for your 20% off.  Yeah, that’s it. 



2. This weekend is Gay Pride weekend on the Hill.  After the parade keep the fun alive by stopping by the shop, check out the space, and who knows? You might win a free tattoo in the raffle.

 

Also, I’ll give you a heads up about a killer deal beginning July 1st: one of our piercers, Erik, will be running an AMAZING piercing sale for a free body piercing with the purchase of any piece of body jewelry.  Just bring in the below flyer, pick your jewelry, and get your free piercing. 

This deal only lasts until August 1st so get going soon before the jewelry runs out.

All Moved in and Feeling Like Home

Last modified on 2010-06-14 16:17:50 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

The team started moving furniture into the new shop yesterday and by the time we left last night at 2am it was starting to feel like home.  I can’t wait to be able to start tattooing out of this place tomorrow; you guys will have to come down and check it out.  I’ll be at the shop between 11am-10pm all this week. 

Also, here’s another shameless plug about the grand re-opening party happening on the 27th.

To give further details on where the shop is located, check out below. 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The building is located directly across the street from the Online Coffee Co. and half a block West of Cafe Metropolitain.  For those of you coming from I-5 South, you get to use the newly-reopened Olve Way exit – which makes getting to the shop a lot easier rather than having to get off at Madison or James. 

As you can see from the photo above, there is a tiny parking lot that can accommodate up to five vehicles.  Those five spots have to be used by all the tenants and are most always taken so be prepared to find street parking.  Most street parking is for 2 hours however there are a few close pay lots that allow you to park longer for a fee. 

When you enter into the building, you immediately come to a landing where you can decide to go upstairs or downstairs.  Upstairs is where the new location of Harem is situated, offering a wide range of middle eastern clothing, jewelry, trinkets, and furniture, as well as hosting belly dancing classes for anyone interested. 

Immediately downstairs you will find Art Attack, a small fringe theater, and slightly to the left of them is the doorway to our shop. 

You will have to stop by, say hi, and see how everything is coming along. 

Hope to see you soon!

Artful Dodger Tattoo Grand RE-Opening Party!

Last modified on 2010-06-11 03:58:24 GMT. 2 comments. Top.

Mark your calendars because on Sunday, June 27th, Artful Dodger Tattoo will be celebrating it’s move into it’s new space at 1715 Olive Way, Seattle!

There will be live music, food, drinks, as well as gift certificates and coupons available for purchase.

Everyone is welcome so come one, come all, pass this along, and we hope to see you there!

Think Ink Tattoo Convention

Last modified on 2010-06-11 03:38:51 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Last Thursday evening, June 3rd, I, Lucky, Tayler, Scooter, Kate, and Oliver, drove over to Coeur d’Alene, ID, for the first Think Ink Tattoo Convention.  What’s great was Lucky, I, and the kids haven’t been over to Coeur d’Alene since last Thanksgiving so we were excited to see the grandparents and friends that we’ve been missing.

Friday was the first day of the convention, held at North Idaho College, so everyone gets up early to set up, meet the tattoo artists around our booths, and wait. 

History shows that Friday is the slowest day of any convention due to the fact that most people are still working and this time it is also because Coeur d’Alene has never seen the likes of a convention before.  The closest tattoo show has always been the Lilac Tattoo Convention in Spokane 30 miles away and that isn’t as enticing as a convention in one’s backyard.

History seemed to repeat itself at this convention.  Friday was extremely slow however it gave us time to get to know other artists and meet with tattooing friends we haven’t seen in a while.  The highlight of Friday was the trophy Lucky picked up for coming in 2nd place in the Small Black & Grey Tattoo category.  Unfortunately I don’t have any pictures of the tattoo but once I find one I’ll post it.

Saturday was more of the same however the attendance did pick up a bit.  Lucky ended up doing four tattoos and won 1st place in the Most Unusual Tattoo category.  That one I do have a picture to show you.

Kelley flew out from Seattle Saturday afternoon so we got the next few days to show her around the Coeur d’Alene area.  She was BY FAR one of the most fascinating people at the convention with her piercings and dreadlocks.

Sunday was definitely the busiest day of the convention.  Lucky did another four tattoos before packing up and hanging out one last day in beautiful Coeur d’Alene. 

The next day, Monday, we finally rolled out of town and made it home before 8:30pm.  It was great to finally get home but it was great to see everyone. 

During our trip we met a lot of incredibly talented artists and caught up with old friends we haven’t seen in years.  That coupled with Tayler and Scooter becoming local celebrities, winning two tropies and having the kids see their grandparents made it a very successful weekend.

 We want to give a huge shoutout to the following list of homies:

• Randy Nilson - for allowing Lucky to share his booth.
• His lovely girlfriend, Brooke – for running and grabbing food (even though the taco trucks were closed) and keeping us company with your stories of eating 11 Jack in the Box tacos.
• Tayler – for really representing the shop and being on top of EVERYTHING.
• Scooter – for allowing everyone to put the weirdest tattoos on your leg. And for representing the shop and being on top of everything.
• Liz and Trevor Burdock of In the Flesh Tattoo- always a pleasure seeing you guys. Can’t wait until the next convention!
• Scott and Kendra – for allowing us to crash at your place.
• The grandparents and Crista – for keeping the kids occupied for three solid days.
• Erica, Mike, Travis, Michelle, & Josh – for keeping us entertained all weekend. And for being awesome.
• The group from Tat-Fu Tattoo in Flagstaff, AZ – you guys are awesome. Can’t wait to be able to have you at the shop and come down to AZ to do a guest spot.

You can find more pictures on Facebook.

Promotions and Updates!

Last modified on 2010-05-31 02:27:09 GMT. 1 comment. Top.

Ok, so we are 3 weeks away from opening the doors to the new shop! Lots of headaches, craziness, and hard work but we are at the tail end of my dream shop coming to fruition. Dave and I have learned a TON in the last few months, and we are excited to unveil the new shop to everyone.

We will be having a grand opening party tentatively the last weekend of June and have just one small issue: we are a little low on funds to polish off the decor of the shop. Just little things to make it fabulous, but we want to make sure everything’s perfect so we are offering an AMAZING promotion. We have COUPONS good for after July 1st worth DOUBLE the value you prepay for.

We have 2 different coupons: The first is $20.00 cost with a $40.00 value, and the other is $50.00 with a $100.00 value!!!

You can purchase these by coming into the shop, and after buying the coupon we will get you on the schedule for July or August. Kind of like a half priced down payment. The coupons have NO expiration date and can even be given as gifts.

What a deal, huh?

AND you get to help generate the last few remaining funds we need to polish the brass on the new shop! These are available NOW and I have only printed 30 of each price so if you want a half price start to your new tattoo, or a great gift for someone, you better act quick – they will be gone within the week.

Lucky

Think Ink Tattoo Convention

Last modified on 2010-04-14 05:23:34 GMT. 5 comments. Top.

Attention all Coeur d’Aleners!  (Well, all North Idahoans and Spokanites as well…)

Lucky will be attending the first annual Think Ink Tattoo Convention at North Idaho College June 4th, 5th, and 6th.

I know what you’re saying.  WHAA?? Tattoo expo in CDA OF ALL PLACES??

Yes, it’s true!  You KNOW Lucky can’t pass up a chance to see all his CDA friends under one roof.  Plus it’s been a while since we’ve been to the North Idaho area so we decided it’s time for a visit.  Perfect timing.

If you’re interested in getting tattooed by Lucky at the convention listen up for a few instructions:

1. Send Lucky an e-mail stating your interest and what type of tattoo you were interested in getting.
2. If Lucky can get you on the schedule be prepared to pay the entrance fee into the convention for the time of your tattoo.  Unfortunately Lucky is not able to get any free passes so he won’t be able to get anyone in for no charge.
3. Come at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tattoo time.  This will give you a chance to get in the door, look around a bit, and give your tattoo drawing a once-over before beginning.

If you are interested in just attending the convention you may go to the Think Ink Tattoo Convention website.  Daily rates are $20 per day or $40 for the entire weekend.

Hope to see you there!

We’re Moving!

Last modified on 2010-04-11 01:14:38 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

It’s official. 

We signed papers, dropped off a deposit and first month’s rent, and now have our very own key to the front door of our new location! 

Our new address is 1715 E Olive Way, Seattle WA and the building is beautiful!  The owners have really tried hard to get a great group of renters in there and they’ve done an amazing job.  There’s a small theater downstairs next to our space, and upstairs there will be a brick oven pizza joint and possibly a trapeze school.  (I know there are a few people that would like that!)

We still have a lot of construction work to accomplish and are hoping to have the grand opening the first week of June.  We are looking for contractors that can pull permits yet do work for tattoo trade so if you know of anyone send ‘em my way.

I can’t believe we’re finally moving forward with expansion.  It seems like only yesterday we were moving into the Red Chair Salon and now it feels like we’re growing up and leaving our parent’s house.  I’m sad that they can’t come with us because I’ve never met a better group of people but I’m hoping we can partner again in the future. (hint, hint)

Check back often for more updates about the construction, the move, and all the craziness that comes with expansion.  Luckily, Dave, my business partner will be here within the week and he can help me try NOT to go crazy.  We’ll see how well he accomplishes that….

New Penguin Ink Book Covers

Last modified on 2010-03-20 06:23:55 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Have you seen the new special edition Penguin Ink book covers?  Penguin Books is debuting six new covers to not-so-new books in a very “tattoo” style. 

My favorite is the Bridget Jones’ Diary cover.  The artwork is done by Tara McPherson, which, as most of you know, I’m a big fan.

 

Lady Luck Tatto Expo, March 12-14, 2010

Last modified on 2010-03-20 05:11:27 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Last Thursday Lucky, Taylor, and I hopped on a plane to Reno, Nevada where we worked at the Lady Luck Tattoo Expo held at Circus Circus Hotel. The expo didn’t start until Friday so we had all afternoon and evening to get familiar with the layout of the convention hall, meet up with old friends, and, of course, get our drink on.

Lucky’s business owner, Dave, drove over from Grass Valley, CA and our friend Jerrett Querubin, drove up from Albuquerque, NM to hang out and work for the weekend. We met Jerrett at the Seattle Tattoo Convention last year and, because our original partner group was not able to make it to Reno, Jerrett decided to come instead. He stayed with friends while in town and tattooed at the convention.

Thursday evening the five of us hit up Nightmare Studios for the pre-expo meet and greet. Tayler had lived in Reno before moving to Seattle so he knew the guys at Nightmare and warned us that they were at a pretty high level of awesomeness. Turns out, Tayler was right and the guys (and gals) are pretty cool. We met Mike and Brandon, owners of Nightmare, along with Gunz and shopgirl Sophia. We hung out with them for a bit before they informed us that in correlation with the shop we could go across the street and get free PBR at Bar USA. Ummm, HELLO? Free PBR? We’re there!

We hung around for a little bit longer because we were told that there was going to be a fire truck party bus. What’s better than free PBR? A fire truck party bus. The bus ended up not coming but we hung out with the Nightmare group for a little bit longer and then headed back to the hotel.

Day 1 of the convention ended up being a lot like Day 2 and Day 3. The days kind of ran together but we had a blast hanging out with everyone at the booth. Matt of Dead Man’s Hand Tattoo Supply, distributer of Eternal Inks, sat at our booth throughout the weekend and he made the time go by fast!

On day 2 Lucky got to judge the black and grey tattoo contest; there were only about 20 contestants for the B&G categories combined but it was fun nonetheless.

There were many great artists and vendors on hand for the convention, I only snapped a few pics of my favorites for your viewing pleasure.

 

We had left the kids at home for the weekend so it made it able to go out for a bit after each convention day.  Some friends came up from Grass Valley to get tattooed and gamble a little bit.  Yes, we ended up getting those rediculously large frozen drinks to carry around. 

By the end of the night Lucky was dragging his drink behind him back to the hotel room.

By the time day 3 rolled around everyone was so exhausted that we just wanted to roll up under the table and sleep.

Lucky did another full day of tattoos and Jerrett got a few walk ups leading to one last successful day at the convention.

We said goodbye to our friends, packed up our stuff, and headed out to one last dinner before flying home the next morning.

We stayed at Tayler’s mother-in-law’s condo where Lucky and Tayler checked out all their “loot” they picked up at the convention.

A little more loot than I would have wanted but I couldn’t be mad, it was all pretty cool.

Overall, it was a fun trip – a little bit slower than usual but successful. Once the big shop opens the guys from Nightmare Studios will be coming up and doing a few guest spots along with a few people from other shops. Stay tuned to hear more on that later.

A huge thanks goes out to Tim Azinger of MOM Productions, Elizabeth and Trevor Burdock for sparking the idea of going to Reno in the first place,

 Dave Hawley,

 Tayler for hooking us up with all the insider deets in Reno,

 Maren for letting Tayler go in the first place ,

Matt Murphy from Dead Man’s Hand,

the team from Nightmare Studios,

Will and Amanda, Josh and Amanda, and Jason and Serena. We couldn’t have done it without you!

One last note, Reno is actually beautiful in the morning light.

Modern Art Meets LSD: Alex Grey

Last modified on 2010-02-27 02:26:19 GMT. 1 comment. Top.

I was trying to think of a clever way to write this blog post but it’s kind of gotten away from me a bit so it’ll be short and sweet.  Sorry.

Meet Alex Grey.

Grey is a world-renowned artist known for his “glowing,” anatomically-correct body paintings that details the skeleton, nervous system, cardiovascular system and lymphatic system.  His works always have a multidimensional aspect to them: not only the physical side of the body, but also the spiritual side, showing bodies as “universal beings.” 

If you have a spare minute, I really recommend viewing the Sacred Mirrors, a series of 21 life sized paintings.  According to Alex Grey’s website, “the series takes the viewer on a journey toward their own divine nature by examining, in detail, the body, mind, and spirit. Begun in 1979, the series took a period of ten years to complete.”

Grey’s artwork has also appeared in the albums of Tool, Nirvana, Beastie Boys, and String Cheese Incident. 

I love his biography on how he got to where he is today* (in a nutshell):

1. Dropped out of art school.
2. Met his wife.
3. Worked at Harvard Medical School prepping cadavers for med students.
4. Tripped on way more LSD than should be even possible.
5. Started creating “a blend of sacred, visionary art, and postmodern art.”

 

*Obviously there are a few more steps involved to where he is today but these are my favorites.

NOTE: All of Alex Grey’s pictures are from his website alexgrey.com

Alex Grey’s work has been featured in many different venues across the world so obviously the next logical step would be to see fan tattoos.  One tattoo artist who is well-known for recreating Grey’s work, among other things, is James Kern out of No Hope No Fear Tattoo Art Studio in Portland, Oregon.

Looking at Kern’s work kind of makes you want to give up tattooing, curl up in a corner and cry, doesn’t it?

NOTE: All James Kern’s pictures are from his website nohopenofeartattoo.com

What’s really interesting, as I was trying to find a picture of Alex Grey and James Kern, I stumbled across this picture of Grey with H.R. Geiger!  What a small world.

Welcome Tayler Wooten!

Last modified on 2010-02-20 04:16:41 GMT. 2 comments. Top.

Please join me in welcoming Tayler Wooten to the ADT clan! 

Tayler is going to be working as my apprentice in between his other job so his presence will be kind of spotty at the shop for the time being. When we get the big shop open, Tayler will be spending more of his time there helping me and the crew and learning some tricks of the trade for himself. 

Taylor and his wife are recent transplants by way of Southern California (with their last stop being in Reno) and have been in the Seattle area for less than a year. He is a graphic artist currently enrolled at the Art Institute of Seattle, loves music, I’m sure he likes long walks on the beach and hours of deep conversation. 

He is tentatively going to be coming with us down to the Lady Luck Tattoo Expo next month so all you homies down there you’ll have to come to Circus Circus and say hey to the new guy. For all those people in the Seattle area, come down, say congrats to Tayler, and hang out for a bit. 

To check out more of Tayler’s work go to http://taylerwooten.com  You can also find the link to his work on the Links page.

Valentine’s Day

Last modified on 2010-02-19 17:29:33 GMT. 1 comment. Top.

A little som’in som’in I did on Valentine’s Day.

Sorry guys, the embedding isn’t working too well right now. I’m going to try to fix and get back up. Until then, here’s a link to the video.

Erin’s Valentine’s Day Tattoo

Lady Luck Tattoo Convention, March 12-15

Last modified on 2010-03-04 03:03:02 GMT. 1 comment. Top.

Here we go again, only this time it’s a little farther away. 

Lucky will be at the Lady Luck Tatto Convention, held in Reno, Nevada at the Circus Circus Hotel and Casino.  We were going to split the booth with Betty from In the Flesh Tattoos but due to unforseen circumstances she won’t be able to make it.  (Hopefully next year?)  Jerrett Querubin out of Albuquerque, NM jumped in at the last second and offered to take Betty’s spot in Reno.  We worked with Jerrett at last year’s Seattle Tattoo Convention and are looking forward to working many more conventions in the future.

Details are as follows:

3-day VIP passes — $35 (deadline 3/5)
Admission at the door — $15/day
Children 14 and under — FREE!

For all those near the Reno area, come down, say hi, and get on the schedule to get tattooed by either Lucky or Jerrett.  Unfortunately I am not able to get people in for free so be prepared to pay for your entrance into the expo.  There are going to be many great artists and vendors in town that weekend and we wouldn’t want you to miss out. 

Hope to see you there!

Help for a Good Cause

Last modified on 2010-02-10 07:47:25 GMT. 1 comment. Top.

Have you ever met a person or a couple and hit it off so immediately that you knew you were MEANT to meet this person(s)?  The rapport is so quick and easy that it feels like you’ve known them forever; so much so that you kind of have to take a step back and say WHOA — ARE THEY REAL?  

This is the reaction when we first met Trevor and Liz Burdock.  Lucky and I were working in the Jet City Tattoo Expo at the end of January and Liz and Trevor had the booth right next to us. We were setting up the both when Liz came over and made a comment about our little marker sign saying that we were from Grass Valley, CA. We ended up talking throughout the first whole day and then we all grabbed a few beers after the expo closed for the night.  

It turns out that Liz and Trevor are from Bowen Island, outside of Vancouver, BC.  They have two children, a 10 year old son and a 4 year old daughter.  Liz just opened the first and only shop on Bowen Island, In the Flesh Tattoos, and is still working hard to build her clientele.  Liz is still relatively new in the business but is completely aware of her green status and wants to hear your opinions on what she can do to make her technique/self/shop better.  It’s a breath of fresh air when a newbie wants you to be honest with them – and can take the critiques.  Another reason for endearment. 

Where Liz is flamboyant and boisterous, Trevor is almost the exact opposite, stoic and quiet.  He is definitely Liz’s rock and the love of her life.  He’s not always in the background, he lets Liz do her thing, however when he does have something to say it is always very smart and very funny.  And he has a Canadian accent.  Yes, the one you all remember from Strange Brew.  Brittany loved it so much that she made him say certain words over and over again just to hear the ooo sound.  Ab-oot. Eh? 

Anyhoo, the second day of the expo was more of the same and that evening, after hearing that they were going to be sleeping in the back of their truck AGAIN, Lucky invited them to drive an hour South to sleep on our futon instead.  They got to the apartment around 12:30am but the four of us didn’t actually turn in until 4am! We had such a blast talking about our families and our lives that the time literally flew by. 

By the third and final day of the expo everyone’s energy was pretty much gone so after packing up we just chilled at the round bar in the middle of Tulalip Casino.  There Liz and Trevor invited us to stay at their cabin on Bowen Island when we came in July (we definitely will) and then invited us to share their booth at the Lady Lucky Tattoo Expo in Reno in March.  We said yes, gave each other hugs, and parted ways until Reno. 

After that weekend, getting back into the swing of things took a couple of days and I hadn’t heard from Liz in about a week and a half.  I was just about to pop on to Facebook and shoot her a message when she sent everyone a note explaining where she had been for the last week.  This is what she posted: 

Hi everyone,
I don’t even know where to start…It is rare that I am without words. On Early Wednesday morning Jan 27 the love of my life was almost taken from me. He was driving home from the cove at about 1:30 am way too fast and lost control on Grafton rd, at Charlies lane. He hit a tree dead on and ricochet in to the forest. He never lost consciousness. He was trapped in the vehicle, bleeding heavily with both legs broken, and could not find his phone, which he immediately knew was his only chance. He reached behind him to the holy shit grips and pulled himself using only his arms to the back seat, only to realize the phone was in the front. He finally reached the phone and called me at home. I will never forget his words or the sound of his voice. He didnt know where he was, just that he had crashed and broken both of his legs……I hung up the phone grabbed Carloyn and we RACED towards the site. I drove the fastest i possibly could while Carolyn kept Trevor on the phone. We were unable to see the car from the road, so I would push in the clutch and rev the engine until he could hear us getting closer….He cracked the back door and the interior light came on, we found him. 911 was called. Carolyn and I rushed to the car deciding I would take his head and she the legs. He was in bad shape. I held hi head and asked if he could feel his toes, he said yes an wiggled them. Carolyn began to turnicate his legs in an attempt to slow the bleeding, she was successful!. The ambulance and firefighters arrived and took over, after 40 mins with the jaws of life they had gotten him from the car, but the helicopters were already busy so we were headed for the water taxi. HE MADE IT!.
Once at Lions Gate Hospital they did x-rays and Trevor had bi-lateral compound fractures to both of his femurs and a fractured sternum.
He has now had 2 surgeries, and one more in 9 days where they will graft bone from his pelvis to try to attach to his right Femur, so they can plate it, and he can eventually walk again.
This letter is to dispel the rumors, although it was touch and go for a while Trevor is not going to die, nor is he going to have any limbs amputated. We have a very long road ahead of us, but if all goes as planned he may be able to weight bare (not walk) in as little as three months, and be walking in as little as six months.
I want to thank the volunteer fire fighters and paramedics of Bowen Island for saving my whole world, I cant imagine a life without Trevor and thanks to you I wont have to.
Thanks to everyone else for your positive energy.
Donations can be made via Paypal to untouchablepresents@gmail.com or by cheque to Trevor Burdock rr#1 w36 Bowen Island, BC v0n1g0, Canada
PLEASE DRIVE SAFELY! 

I was speechless.  I thought it was a joke.  I had to read this note a couple of times and couldn’t tear my eyes away from the screen.  I felt like I had been hit with a brick – and I’ve never felt that way about anyone outside of my family.  I feel like Liz and Trevor are a part of the family and this was a huge blow to me. 

I want to do whatever I can to help so I’m asking you to please donate whatever you can to help Trevor and his family.  Any little bit helps; if everyone who reads this post donates even $1…well, we might only get about $60 but anything is better than nothing.  

Please take a moment to go to http://trevorburdock.com and donate through PayPal.  You’d be doing this for a great cause and we couldn’t thank you enough. 

Erin 

To Tattoo or Not to Tattoo: A Significant Other’s Name

Last modified on 2010-02-09 17:17:04 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, the topic of tattooing significant others’s names have come up in conversation a bit more lately.  A few days ago Lucky and I were discussing the recent separation of some friends of ours, which just so happens to coincide with the recent inking of (now separated) wife’s initials on hubby’s chest.  Was it “The Curse?”

“The Curse,” as it has come to be known in the tattoo industry, is the never-failing chain of events after a person gets a tattoo representing their spouse or significant other.  It doesn’t matter if the couple has been together for 10 years or 10 days.  The moment one person puts a name or initials permanently into skin a breakup is on the horizon.  Like clockwork.

Tattoo artists come across this dilemma over and over again.  The reactions of artists, when asked to do this type of tattoo, exists in stages:

Stage 1.) The “no big deal” stage. This normally is the attitude of an apprentice or beginning artist who hasn’t been in the industry for long.  All they have to do is start to get repeat business and will begin to see a pattern after doing these tattoos.

This is also the attitude of the old schoolers (older tattoo artists that have been in the business for 30 years), who don’t believe in the myth, or don’t feel it’s the responsibility of the artist to steer the client in one direction or another.  They believe it’s the choice of the person who is paying the money to get the tattoo.

Stage 2.) The “hesitant” stage.  The artist is beginning to see a few repeat clients come in and need a cover up of their “love of their lives’” name.  They begin to try to talk the client into getting a different tattoo but in the end still do name.  The artist starts to feel bad about taking their money for a second time but will still take it.  Money’s money, right?

Stage 3.) This is the “Hell No” stage.  When someone comes in, whether they’re a regular or just a walk-in, and asks for their girlfriend’s name right on their chest above the cool tazmanian devil tattoo they got in the early 90′s, the artist adamantly refuses. No matter how much pleading the potential-client does it still won’t get them a name tattoo.

There is one other stage but it can either be stage 2.5 or stage 3.5, depending on who you talk to.  It’s the “I will do your name tattoo but for AT LEAST three times the normal price.”  This is the stage Lucky is at right now.  For him I think it’s probably stage 3.5. He has seen “The Curse” happen so many times he’s starting to charge at least $200 for a simple name – just to try to deter the person.  Does someone really want to spend that much money to get a name? Is it really worth it? 

This overcharging didn’t work with our friends who ended up splitting but we’re still secretly hoping they will get back together.  It might happen.  This is definitely the last time Lucky’s going to be a part of this, however.  He would rather be more like Eros than Ares.

Inside the World of H.R. Giger

Last modified on 2010-02-08 18:40:28 GMT. 1 comment. Top.

As artists most of us are familiar with the work of H.R. Giger.  For everyone who’s going “whaa?” “who?” H.R. Giger is the genius (messed-up-in-the-head?) behind the biomechanical set design of the Alien movies, the design of the Alien itself, a poster insert in the Dead Kennedy’s Frankenchrist album, the Necronomicon books of paintings, and the inspiration for every fetishistic wet dream out there.

Almost every scary-looking, biomechanical tattoo you see on the streets is either a direct replica of or was inspired by Giger.   Seriously, this art is so creepy that the guy must have been terrorized as a kid.  Interesting side note: according to Giger’s Wikipedia page, Giger is one of the best-known sufferers of night terrors and his paintings, inspired by his experiences, are his form of therapy. 

Anyway, some friends over at Work Shoe Blisters found a bar inspired by Giger that is a must-see for anyone wanting to get a looksie inside the mind of the infamous King of Nightmares.  Get out your passports because this bar is in Gruyères, Switzerland however, if you’ve ever wanted to be in the Alien movies, it looks like it might be worth the trip.

According to the website the bar is described as ”a cavernous, skeletal structure covered by double arches of vertebrae that crisscross the vaulted ceiling of an ancient castle. The sensation of being in this extraordinary setting recalls the tale of Jonah and the whale, lending the feel of being literally in the belly of a fossilized, prehistoric beast, or that you have been transported into the remains of a mutated future civilization.”

If you do plan on going, take pictures for us because, man, if I went I think I might have nightmares for a week!

Thanks katetuomimonster for the tip!

Warning: Keep this in mind if you are going to marry a tattoo artist!

Last modified on 2010-02-08 07:02:13 GMT. 2 comments. Top.

I am back!

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:32:00 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Hey Guys,

Just wanted to send a quick note your way letting you know that I’m back after a whirlwind trip to Las Vegas and Grass Valley, CA.  I left last Sunday and the second I got off the plane in Sacramento I drove 10 hours to Las Vegas for a friend’s birthday.  While I was there I had the pleasure of tattooing at Dead Man’s Hand for two days and got a pretty cool sweatshirt and a few window stickers.  When I was about to start my first tattoo I discovered that the Southwest Airlines baggage handlers completely destroyed my power supply and STOLE my shader needles!  I actually had to buy a new power supply and needles to be able to work the remainder of the week but luckily I was in the shop of the best tattoo supplier on the West Coast so Matt of DMH had my back.

On Wednesday we drove 10 hours back to Grass Valley, CA and on Thursday I worked at Classic Tattoo with Cory Norris and his crew.  Thursday night I was able to hang wich some old friends for a few hours but had to get up early* on Friday to get to the airport.

I got back into Seattle Friday evening and I couldn’t be happier. It was great to spend time with friends in Grass Valley, and it was awesome to be able to ring in my buddy’s 30th birthday in Las Vegas, but it feels wonderful to be home. I’m still trying to get back into the swing of things and have over 150 e-mail to reply to so please bear with me over the next week or so while I play catch up.  If you’re interested in setting up an appointment, come down to the shop and say hi or give me a call and we can discuss what you want and get you on the schedule.

Thanks!

Lucky

*early=Noon

Where’s Lucky?

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:32:27 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Hi guys,

I’m going to be out of town for the next week and wanted to give you a heads up as to where I’ll be.  If you like Where’s Waldo then you’ll love this game.

Tomorrow I’m flying down to Sacramento to be picked up and driven to Las Vegas in honor of a friend’s 30th birthday.  While I’m in Vegas I will be taking Monday and Tuesday to tattoo at a NEW friend’s shop, Dead Man’s Hand.  Matt, one of the owners of DMH, is one of the great people we met while up at the Jet City Tattoo Expo last weekend.  Thanks, Matt, for letting me come in for a few days.

On Wednesday we’re driving back to Grass Valley, CA and I will be working Thursday with Cory Norris and his group at Classic Tattoo.  I *think* I’m all booked for that day but come on down to say hi. 

I’ll be flying back on Friday to work on some cool people on Saturday.

And that is my whirlwind trip.

February is filling up fast; I *might* have an open appointment here or there but call me ASAP if you want to get on the schedule. 

See you soon!

Jet City Tattoo Expo

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:34:14 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Well, another year means another round of conventions and guest spots.  I will be travelling a bit this year and will be doing some conventions so stay tuned for more details.  In the meantime, the first convention this year is the Jet City Tattoo Expo up in Everett.  The expo will be running January 22^nd thru 24^th at the Tulalip Resort Casino.  I will be at the expo all day each day during the convention hours.

Convention hours are as follows:
Friday, January 22                 1pm – 10pm
Saturday, January 23            12pm – 10pm
Sunday, January 24               12pm-7pm

If you get tickets in advance you can get the 3-day pass for $35.00.  Deadline for advance tickets is January 8^th.  Otherwise tickets are available at the door for $15.00 per day.  Children 14 and under are free!

If you’re interested in getting tattooed during the expo hit me up as I already have some spots reserved.  One thing to note is that I can’t get you into the convention for free so be prepared to pay $15 at the door for entrance.

Hope to see you there!

Thank You!

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:34:55 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

As we ring in the new year (painfully with some Tylenol) I wanted to take a moment and reflect how crazy the last year has been for me. I try and think about all the things that have been accomplished and found that there is a common theme among everything: you. I want to thank you for everything you have done to help me accomplish my dream of owning my own tattoo shop in one of the coolest, most beautiful cities in the world. You made me realize that it is possible to strike out on my own and you are responsible for keeping me afloat with a new baby at home. (Speaking of which, Happy 1st Birthday Oliver!)

There is a lot that I want to accomplish as we head into 2010 but one thing is for sure: I want to continue to have you amazing people as my friends and want to meet new people who inspire and want to be inspired. Can a man ask for anything more than that?

So in closing, I want to say cheers! and leave you with a few words of wisdom by Neil Gaiman: I hope you will have a wonderful year, that you’ll dream dangerously and outrageously, that you’ll make something that didn’t exist before you made it, that you will be loved and that you will be liked, and that you will have people to love and to like in return. And, most importantly (because I think there should be more kindness and more wisdom in the world right now), that you will, when you need to be, be wise, and that you will always be kind.

Lucky

Thanksgiving Update

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:35:57 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Hi Guys!

As everyone knows, my family and I will be in Coeur d’Alene for Thanksgiving.  I plan on tattooing the weekend after Thanksgiving (depending on what day we have Kate’s birthday party) and will only have 6 appointment spots open.  I have already been contacted by many people to get tattooed while I’m in town but that doesn’t mean that I can’t fit you in or figure out a workaround plan.  If you’re thinking about getting tattooed contact myself or Erin and we’ll see what we can do.

Holiday Specials and News

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:40:38 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

I want to thank Chris and the crew at Jackalope Tattoo for a great day and making me feel at home. You guys are awesome!

ATTENTION CDA/SPOKANE FRIENDS: I will be coming over for a holiday visit and spending November 27th and 28th at State of Art Tattoo. It will be a while before I can get back over there so now will be the time to get in. I have 6 openings for tattoo work – get ‘em while they’re hot!  E-mail me (or call) if you want one of the slots and we can set you up.

I am already in the holiday spirit so here are a few gifts I have for you fine folks:

This Friday is Friday the 13th. I have a few fun and spooky 13 designs that I am offering for a one day only price of $30!!! That’s half off the shop minimum!!! I can do only 6-8 of them in one day so first come first serve!

As Christmas and the holidays come crashing in, coupled with how many of us have been affected by the economy, people have had to put aside their personal tattoo desires. Alas, I have two remedies for this problem:

1. From Thanksgiving Day to New Years Day, I will reduce my hourly rate from $125.00 to $80.00 an hour!! The shop minimum will reduce to $40.00 instead of the regular $60.00!! But act fast because this will go back to the $125 normal pricing as of January 2, 2010!
2. Do you have a hard person to shop for on your list? Well, get them something that they will NEVER forget! I have GIFT CERTIFICATES available! It lets your special friend get what they want AND be constantly reminded of your thoughtfulness! Come by the shop and pick one up for that special person/ink lover in your life!

 

REMEMBER Winter = best time to get tattoos. With no sun and no swimming it is the perfect time to heal a beautiful new tattoo!

If you have any questions, or would like to jump on one of these deals, let me know through any of the usual ways:

206-441-2153
artfuldodgertattoo@gmail.com
MySpace
Facebook
Twitter

Thanks and have a happy holidays!

Lucky and the ADT crew

Best of Western Washington Award!

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:36:43 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Lucky was awarded 4th place out of 72 shops for the King5 Best of Western Washington contest in the tattoo and piercing category. He would like to say THANK YOU to everyone who voted and put up with him talking about nothing else. You guys are the reason he’s here and make it worthwhile to go to work every day. THANK YOU!

Revolting Cocks

Last modified on 2009-11-21 22:35:40 GMT. 1 comment. Top.

The Revolting Cocks are coming!

Lucky will be tattooing Eros are a few others from the Revolting Cocks today! Come down and say hi or come to their show tonight at Studio Seven. Tickets are $15 in advance or $17 at the door. See you there!

Lucky on TBTL!

Last modified on 2009-11-12 06:18:25 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Lucky had the honor of tattooing Luke Burbank from Too Beautiful to Live this afternoon during a live podcast. Listen to Luke talk to Lucky while he’s getting work done here.

Lucky will be at Classic Tattoo

Last modified on 2010-02-09 06:38:37 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Lucky has been given the great pleasure to work with Cory Norris and his crew at Classic Tattoo in his hometown of Grass Valley, CA.

Lucky will be in GV working at Classic Tattoo September 22nd thru 26th so hit him up if you want to get on the schedule. The shop minimum is $60, $125/hour, and there is a $100 deposit to hold the time and begin your custom drawing. As always, the deposit will go towards the cost of your tattoo.

If you would like to talk about a tattoo and scheduling an appointment, Lucky’s e-mail address is artfuldodgertattoo@gmail.com or his phone is 206.446.2153. He is so excited for this opportunity and can’t wait to see everyone.

Shop Info:
Classic Tattoo
420 Colfax Ave
Grass Valley CA 95945
(530) 273-6499

Hours: Tues-Sat 11am-7pm

http://www.corynorristattoo.com/
http://www.myspace.com/corynorristattoo

1st Annual NW Music Expo

Last modified on 2009-11-12 06:19:32 GMT. 0 comments. Top.

Come visit Lucky and Artful Dodger Tattoo at the 1st Annual Northwest Music Expo!

Lucky will be the exclusive tattoo artist working in the midst of amazing musicians and wonderful exhibitors. Showbox Sodo is hosting the NW Music Expo for one day only, Saturday, August 29th beginning at 12:00pm at the Showbox Sodo. All ages are welcome; admission is only $5.00(!) and if you’re over 21 bring your ID for the beer garden.

For more information regarding the 1st Annual Northwest Music Expo click on banner below.