While many flock to the City of Angels for the idyllic weather, world class dining, beaches, and a chance to rub shoulders with Hollywood elite, there is an increasing number of famous la tattoo artists for what can only be described as “tattoo tourism.”
1. Famous la tattoo artists: MISTER CARTOON – PRIVATE STUDIO
Mister Cartoon counts the likes of Kobe Bryant, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Beyoncé, Dr. Dre and Justin Timberlake as satisfied customers who have put their trust in the veteran tattoo artist who works out of his private studio in Downtown Los Angeles (129 E 6th St, at Los Angeles St, Downtown L.A.). Known primarily of his work in black-and-grey, Cartoon’s specialties include skull work, religious imagery, and “cry now, laugh later” motifs with his expert hand style.
2. JUN CHA – MONARC STUDIOS
Inspired by the Renaissance, Greek, and Baroque eras, artist Jun Cha is reinventing what a tattoo experience entails after opening his Monarc Studios in Downtown L.A. in 2015 – catering not only to tattoo enthusiasts, but also likeminded individuals who enjoy fine art as well. Cha specializes in large-scale, black-and-grey tattoos. Unlike other tattoo parlors, Monarc Studios (Arts District, Downtown L.A.) first requires a preliminary tattoo enquiry – that once approved – allows potential members access to secure projects and learn full details of the studio. The waiting list currently stretches until 2021.
3. MARK MAHONEY – SHAMROCK SOCIAL CLUB
He is one of the most famous tattoo artists in the U.S. According to the Los Angeles Times, Shamrock Social Club owner-tattoo artist, Mark Mahoney is so respect that “fellow tattoo artists come in to consult with him on new styles and techniques.” Mahoney, who has tattooed music elite like Sid Vicious, Johnny Thunders, Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G., got his professional start in 1977 while tattooing at motorcycle clubhouses in Boston. He ventured out to Los Angeles in 1980 and set up shop in the heart of Hollywood, where he established his trademark black-and-grey work, which he achieved through a pioneering single-needle tattoo style (9026 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, 310.271.9664).
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