Post Punk Kitchen Forum

Can anyone give me a bit of advice about finding a good artist? I know exactly what I want (there are 2 that I have wanted for well over a year) but I am not sure how to go about making sure I pick the right person. I know you can look at portfolio's online but how do you know they are the right fit.

My best friend is a tattoo artist and I do want to get some work done by her but her style isn't right for these pieces so I guess I am just looking for some etiquette advice? How do I approach an artist about designing something for me, especially when I have a really good image of what I want.

Based on the experiences I've had, and with most recently scouring through local shops to find an artist I liked, aside from their level of skill, it was as simple as just getting a good vibe from the artist.

She clearly demonstrated an approach of professionalism about her work, and a great deal of interest in ensuring that the piece we were working to towards was something I would be fully satisfied with. I did give her some creative liberties beyond us having talked about the elements that absolutely had to be there.

I guess I would approach it as asking the artist that while you very much appreciate their work and skill level that this is what you want done without straying too much/if at all from what you have, and get a sense of how they react to that.

Just wondering what you guys think of this artist?

http://craigkellytattoo.com

I am finding the whole process of finding the right artist stressfull!

His portfolio seems really solid! Nice, clean, solid traditional pieces...I really like!

I really liked the traditional feel of his work. Thanks for the input, PP, I liked it but I am so nervous because it is forever and I don't want to pick a shitty artist! Now I need to save up some money!

There's a fairly popular traditional tattoo called the Pharoh's Horses. Last week I got the Pharoh's Nortons tattooed on my forearm (Norton is my dog). The Norton in the middle has the colors of his face reversed.

your tattoo looks amazing, lacy!

forking. Awesome.

Wow, that is really dope, Lacy.

Woah, that rules, Lacy.

Ok, so I've pored over many threads to try to find the answer to this question, but no such luck. I was wondering if someone out there could give me a second opinion on Starbrite ink. I found a website from 2010 that said their inks were vegan-friendly. 2 years is a long time, though, and I didn't know if anyone had information on the brand. I can't seem to find a direct website for them and the artist I want to do my tattoo uses exclusively Starbrite ink. Thoughts??

New tattoo, taken when it was freshly done. I love it.

That's so pretty, paprikapapaya!

I love his work! It's totally worth spending time finding the right artist. My tattoo artist was so expensive that it took me just over a year to finish (paying for) my half-sleeve, but it was so worth it. I don't think I'll ever go to anyone else again, because he really understands my tastes now.

going to go get a strawberry this weekend...i found a new local shop that is clean and has vegan ink!

I have a mega swollen calf, almost as though one leg went on a Trans-Atlantic flight.

8ball, that's fantastic! Totally amazing.

That is gorgeous!

Here is my latest, it was a birthday present. Inspired by the Cancer Bats and stands for Dead Set On Living

What a stunning tattoo 8ball! Lovely colours.

8-ball great work!

This was a slightly early 23rd birthday gift from my dad.

First Tattoo by Sister Legumes, on Flickr

First Tattoo by Sister Legumes, on Flickr

Now I've joined the ranks.
It's an ode to Oregon, and everything that we grow here, as well as the things that grow on their own (invasive blackberries and native alike!). Also, bee love, for all they do for us (the human race in general, and us vegans specifically), because without them we wouldn't have all our fruits and veggies.


Aron Dubois, at Scapegoat in Portland, drew it up for me.
http://arondubois.tumblr.com/

SisterLegume, that is adorable!

Lacy and PP, your tattoos are breathtaking! I love traditional pieces so, so much.

Gorgeous! I love it. Even though it has scary NW bees in it that try to kill me. :)