BLOG ENTRY:
A GREAT IDEA FOR THE BEST TATTOO ARTISTS! By DG Wilson Nov. 2007
I came up with a way that works very well for me, it takes even more work but one artist, Timmy Tattoo told me that my quality of life is superior than a lot of other artists. I bought a house, a two family dwelling in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn. I work out of the downstairs which is completly devoted to my shop and art. I have sections set up for painting, drawing, sculpting, computer work and tattoos. I have a great flexibility in how I decorate my shop and design the layout. I have full control.
I am the landlord, the boss, the family head, and the one where all the stress and struggle comes to, but I wouldn't give it up because I enjoy what I do so much, (and frankly would have difficulty working for another after so many years)! At the same time there is much more struggle and stress with this type of shop BUT I have eliminated the commute to work, shop rent, employees, other artists, and the busy walk in style shop. I work by appointment only, and have a sturdy minium.
If my wife or children need me I am but steps away. I have better security and peace of mind with my shop so close. There are major benefits to working this way, and you may begin to see how they are better. I suggest that the bigger, better tattoo artists go home. Find a place that is in a residential community and use your experience, time and money to make a fantastic shop just the way you like it with the peace of mind that the rent will not skyrocket and you will have a long time to work your magic.
Now this will be a problem for the young artists that depend on your big name to bring them customers. They will struggle and fall the wayside...at least the poor quality artists. The better ones will be picked up by those business managers that don't create but copy. I mean those people that are NOT artists, do not tattoo yet own a shop in a busy location and have a bunch of young artists always flowing through their chairs. These managers do not contribute to the tattoo world, but rather rob us of the good customers and money because the customers are drawn to the big busy shop.
By going to a residential community we are bringing tattooing back to the people in an intimate setting that will breathe new life into this difficult and rare art form. We will take tattooing back 20 years to where it was mystical to get a tattoo, it was awe inspiring. BUT we will NOT lose all the ground we have gained in credibility, acceptance and awareness of us and our work.
Consider it, and please, I am very interested in your point of view.
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