This past Saturday, I visited a local tattoo convention. It sucked ass, as expected, with a few minor exceptions. I didn't expect to find any particularly amazing artists, considering I've never seen any really good tattoos in Santa Maria! The punk crowd here is drawn to the 1950's greaser look, giving traditional tattoo artists good business on the central coast. I met Josh Duffy, an artist for Mike Devrie's studio in Northridge, CA. That homie is killing it to say the least. He specializes in black and grey shades, but did a sick pair of "avatar eyes" in full color on someone at the convention. I am stoked I met him and chatted his ear off.
I picked up a copy of "Tattoo Prodigies" from Duffy. This large hardbound book is well worth $100 for the glossy photos, amazing interviews, and display of impressive work by artists making progress in the traditional tattoo styles. It's a good timeline of the ever evolving tattoo industry, as well as a window into the future. I'm very impressed with how well the book was put together, it's one the best collection of artists and work I have seen. I thought of a few artists who were snubbed from the book, but there's always a second edition to look forward to. Overall, it's a mind blowing collection, a well balanced mix of photos from the guys and gals who have been killing it in the industry for years. The mere tip of the iceberg includes Guys Aitchison, Robert Hernandez, and Corey Kruger. Included are newcomers Nikko Hurtado, Adrian Dominic, and Nick Baxter with a promising look in what's to come for the future of the industry. I strong encourage any enthusiast to invest in this book, you will not be disappointed.
You can buy Tattoo Prodigies here:
www.mdtattoos.com
Proton Press
