How do I find the BEST tattoo artist for the job, regardless of where they live?

Question

I'm doing some research on my next tattoo, but the problem is that I don't know where to begin looking for an artist.

I've gone to the same shop for all my ink so far and I love everyone there, the guys have all done super fantastic jobs on my tattoos. But I really want to do the thing correctly when it comes down to getting a sleeve, since it's such a huge piece of work. I want to make sure I'm either already with the right shop for the job or at least on the right track to finding the perfect artist for me.

If I know that a tattooist is going to be the best for me, I don't mind driving all across the country. I probably would not go overseas, but I'd be willing to make a significant trek across the States to make sure I'm getting the best possible fit for my piece.

So my question is this: How do I go about finding the right tattoo artist for what I'm looking for? Is there a website I can go to in order to search for people who specialize in what I want? Is there a convention or some sort of event that showcases the best of the best? And how do you all decide which artist is right for you?

I don't want to be limited by just "what's around my area" because I really want to make sure I'm getting the best.

Thanks for all your help in advance!

Answer 1

Myspace and tattoo magazines are going to be your best bet when it comes to exploring the world of artists. Word of mouth is also good: consider getting an account on Suicide Girls and ask some of them where they get their ink done.



Those are the only places I can think of suggesting. Try these links to some really great artists that I know of.



http://www.myspace.com/ultramegadeathkill



http://www.darcynutt.com/



http://www.inkvisiontattoo.com/

Answer 2

Honestly, I don't think removing the tattoo is the answer right now. If she dresses funny in the first place, the problem already existed before her getting the tattoo. Mom and daughter should sit down for a heart to heart talk, or if that doesn't work, professionals should intervene. "Making her remove the tattoo" will only create more tension at home. Her need for attention maybe the initial reason why she makes herself that way (with the dress and hair dye, piercings, and tattoo)

Answer 3

Weeell, it really depends on the style of sleeve you want done. Many might qualify as the 'best' tattooist in their style of work, but that covers a really broad spectrum. Depends, like I said, on exactly what you want, in your sleeve. Artists, like any other profession, specilize. Narrow it down a little.

Answer 4

http://www.playboy.com/articles/best-tattoo-parlors/index.html



http://www.metrowize.com/articles/best-tattoo-parlors



http://www.tattoodesign.com/top_100_tattoo_studios/



there's a few links to some of the best listed tattoo shops in the us





Good luck, I know exactly what you mean about such a big piece of art!