about the artist
This section is just let you know a little bit more about me. Originally from Wyoming County, WV, I started tattooing in the spring of 2006. Prior to this I completed my apprenticeship under Tivis Phillips and Justin Stewart in Princeton, WV. Continuing to work at a number of shops in that area over the course of the next couple of years, I eventually decided to move elsewhere to broaden my perspective on the tattoo industry. I am currently working exclusively at Danny's Ancient Art Tattoo Studios in Blacksburg, VA.
I prefer to do black and grey portrait and realism work, including religious imagery and pinups. I am interested in new school color art, which appears cartoon like. It allows for very bright and bold tattoos, which jump off the skin and almost look three dimensional. I am proficient in all styles and appreciate it when a client gives me the creative freedom to make the piece my own. In addition, I specialize in lettering and freehand script, of which I do most of at my shop when requested. Having been drawing since I was young, I never really went through any formal schooling outside of my apprenticeship, but have mastered my craft through trial and error and doing research in my spare time.
However, over the years of tattooing I have been transforming my entire art style as far as how I would look at a design, and piece elements together to create a full, elaborate work of art. Coming from teaching myself primarily from comic book reference, I taught myself to draw using a more tattoo friendly way. To explain, some tight details done with pens and pencil cannot be done in a correct fashion with a tattoo machine. However, having both of these styles in my arsenal and using them on a daily basis allows me to mix and match different references. This allows for an overall different feel to tattoos that most of my clients did not know could be done.
In my spare time I enjoy playing music. Having an extensive background in percussion and playing guitar since 1999, I have played in a number of bands on and off over the years and now am currently trying to focus on a solo project. I also enjoy going to the gym and working out. Staying in shape indirectly allows me to be more responsive at work during those long, grueling days, so my clients always get the best work I can offer at anytime.
Take some time to look through my work and if you have any questions, contact me through email, myspace, or facebook. You can also call the Ancient Art Shop at 540-951-0447. I currently work Tuesday through Saturday during normal shop hours being 12–9 on weekdays and 12–11 on weekends. I prefer to work by appointment, however walk-ins are always welcome. Thanks for visiting!