The Big & The Bold

Today, let's delve into the fascinating world of tattoo collecting as we explore the top 12 most prominent tattoo enthusiasts I've encountered throughout my career. Compiling this list was no easy task, as I've had the privilege of working with numerous individuals whose passion for body art knows no bounds. While some of my most exceptional pieces may not have made it onto this exclusive list, the 12 collectors that I've selected stand out for their unique and remarkable ink collections.

Join me on a captivating journey as we uncover the stories behind these elaborate tattoos and gain insight into the lives and minds of these dedicated collectors. These individuals represent the epitome of commitment and creativity in the world of tattoo artistry, showcasing the boundless possibilities that come with expressing oneself through ink. Get ready to be inspired and amazed by the sheer magnitude and beauty of these extraordinary tattoo collections.

Wayne (2013)

I was truly ecstatic when Wayne approached me with the idea of creating a substantial side piece. The canvas provided by this particular area of the body is truly remarkable, with its tall and flat surface offering a unique opportunity for the creation of intricate and detailed artwork. As an artist who values the artistry and craftsmanship of tattooing over mere novelty, the prospect of working on such a large piece filled me with excitement and inspiration. I saw it as a chance to truly showcase my skills and creativity.

Collaborating with Wayne, we delved into a creative process that involved a blend of existing art pieces and some freestyle elements to craft a design that would not only complement his body but also stand out as a unique and captivating piece of art. The incorporation of an octopus eye in the background and bottom frame added a touch of mystery and depth to the overall composition. And, as a personal touch, I included my signature eyeball in the design, adding a subtle yet distinctive mark of my artistry.

Working on this large side piece was not just about creating a tattoo but about crafting a piece of art that would resonate with both the wearer and the viewer. It was a collaborative journey of creativity and expression, where every line, shade, and detail came together to form a cohesive and visually stunning work of art. This experience reaffirmed my belief in the power of tattooing as a form of fine art and the endless possibilities it offers for artistic expression.

Philippe (2013 - 2018)

Philippe was much more than a big tattoo, it was the largest cover up project I had ever seen. In fact every tattoo artist he went to flat out turned him down. He had no answers and no where to go. No one would even attempt to cover up his past mistake as it was such a large area. The lines are all over the place. A sea of mistakes. Not only is the design just ridiculous all of the old lines are scarred into him.

So now you know what was underneath this huge project. This was not just about creating a piece of art, it was about fixing a horrible mistake. I do think this is my largest and toughest tattoo request of all time. It was not easy at all. Even today we are not quite finished. I have worked in layers and bent my designs to cover the old work. I had to turn vertical waves into horizontal sea. I had to make waves turn into octopus arms and the scale of everything was dictated by what was under it.

I will delve deeper into the intricacies of this project in a dedicated blog post, where I will share an extensive collection of progress shots that span over the course of years. The journey of this project has been a testament to dedication and perseverance, culminating in the creation of a truly remarkable piece. What sets this project apart is not only its cover-up complexity but also its distinctive artistic style.

Combining elements of an illustrated children's book with a touch of darkness, love, and the essence of life's journey, this piece stands as a unique blend of creativity and emotion. Each stroke of the brush, each detail meticulously crafted, tells a story that resonates with depth and meaning. Stay tuned for the upcoming blog post where I will unravel the layers of this project and share the profound insights it holds.

Mike Selin (2003 - 2012)

Jenny (2016 to 2023)

Luke (2021)

Luke's journey towards transforming his upper body with cover up tattoos has been nothing short of intricate and fascinating. Not only does he have one, two, or three, but a total of four cover up tattoos seamlessly integrated into his existing body art. The process was undoubtedly a challenging one, especially considering the presence of a massive scar from a previous surgery on his belly. Despite the complexities involved, Luke had a unique vision in mind - an octopus design that wasn't just tattooed on him, but one that was large and dynamic enough to appear as if it could reach out and grab him. This ambitious idea pushed the boundaries of tattoo artistry.

As the work on Luke's body continues, each session brings his vision closer to reality. The ongoing transformation is a testament to both his dedication to the art and the creativity of the tattoo artist involved. While the process is not yet complete, the current stage represents a significant milestone in the evolution of Luke's body art. It serves as a compelling preview of the final masterpiece that is gradually taking shape on his skin. The blend of cover up tattoos, scar concealment, and the striking octopus design is shaping up to be a truly remarkable and visually captivating piece of body art.

Emily (2021 to 2023)

In her upcoming blog post, I will delve into a comprehensive exploration of Emily's journey, shedding light on various aspects that contribute to the miraculous nature of this project. Just like any miracle, the story of Emily's transformation deserves to be told with intricate detail and profound depth. It is a tale of resilience, determination, and the unwavering commitment to turning a challenging situation into a remarkable success.

The project embarked upon to cover up the existing design was not merely a task but a labor of love and dedication. It symbolized a significant undertaking that required meticulous planning, creative vision, and skilled execution. From its humble beginnings to the final outcome, every step in this journey was marked by perseverance and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Undoubtedly, this cover-up project stands out as one of the most arduous endeavors, yet it resulted in an astonishing transformation that surpassed all expectations. The sheer dedication and hard work poured into this endeavor reflect a true testament to the artistry and craftsmanship involved. The final result is a testament to the power of creativity and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and beauty.

As I reflect on the remarkable evolution of this project, I am filled with a sense of pride and accomplishment. Witnessing the incredible transformation that Emily underwent serves as a reminder of the transformative power of art and the profound impact it can have on individuals. This project is a testament to the beauty that can emerge from adversity and the limitless potential for reinvention and renewal.

Rene (2022 - 2024)

Carmen (1993 to Present)

Ed (2014 to 2022)

Matt (1996-Present)

Matt and I have been collaborating in the art of tattooing for over two decades now, with our journey beginning around 1996, or perhaps even earlier. The exact year seems to have blurred in our memories, which is a testament to the deep bond and shared passion we have for this craft. One of our early creations that still stands out vividly in my mind is the tattoo depicting water and fire in opposing elements, a symbol of the balance and harmony we strive to achieve in our work.

As time passed, Matt's tattoo collection has grown and evolved, each piece telling a unique story and reflecting his personal journey. It has been a privilege for me to work on his tattoos, not only adding new designs but also revisiting older ones to ensure they remain vibrant and meaningful. The process of touching up, covering, and enhancing existing tattoos is a delicate art that requires skill and precision, and I take great pride in the transformations I have been able to achieve on Matt's skin.

Beyond just creating beautiful tattoos, our collaboration goes deeper, addressing and resolving any issues that may arise with older tattoos. This process of rejuvenation and restoration is a testament to our commitment to excellence and our dedication to our craft.

Matt's tattoo project is a work of art in itself, each piece contributing to a larger narrative that is waiting to be shared. Stay tuned for updates on his journey, as we delve into the stories behind each tattoo, the inspiration that drives us, and the creative process that brings our visions to life. Matt's tattoo collection is a reflection of our shared passion and creativity, and I look forward to continuing this artistic journey with him.

Brad (2022-2023)

The family tree project is a unique and creative way to visually represent the bond and connection between family members. By assigning each animal in the tree to represent a child, the artist has managed to capture the essence of each individual within the family unit. The idea of replacing the animals' eyes with the actual eyes of the child they represent adds a personal touch to the portraits, symbolizing a deep connection and shared traits between the generations.

Furthermore, the mention of saving the lower arm for grandkids yet to come hints at the continuation of this project through future generations, highlighting the significance of family legacy and the passing down of traditions. It is a beautiful and heartwarming concept that not only celebrates the present family members but also looks forward to the future and the growth of the family tree.

The promise of more details on Brad and his involvement in this project in a separate story adds an element of intrigue and anticipation. It suggests that there is a deeper narrative behind the family tree project, possibly involving personal stories, motivations, and inspirations that have fueled the creation of this meaningful artwork. Overall, the family tree project is a touching representation of familial love, connection, and the beauty of generational ties.

Dragon Back (2014)

Incorporating a touch of nostalgia and tradition into the vast collection of tattoos, I decided to delve into an old-school and more traditional style for this particular piece. The primary objective behind this tattoo was to cover up previous work that the client was dissatisfied with. To achieve this, we introduced a striking dragon motif, seamlessly blending it with the existing design while making sure it stood out and harmonized with the updated aesthetic. By carefully intertwining elements of the past with a fresh perspective, we were able to breathe new life into the tattoo, creating a unique fusion of classic and contemporary styles that resonated with the client's vision and preferences.

Honorable Mention Gallery