Thinking about inking?
Here’s what South Side tattoo artist's have to say about that.
Written by Caitie Beatty & Wesley Bays
Photos by Caitie Beatty
We took a trip to the South Side where we were able to interview tattoo artists, owners, and piercers. We interviewed them to see what they think about etiquette, what they are like, and to find out what it is like to be a tattoo artist in Pittsburgh.
CARSON STREET TATTOO
The first shop we visited, which was once was known as Flying Monkey, is now Carson Street Tattoo.
Cosimo Liberto - @co51mo
Pittsburgh, PA - experience - 18 yrs.
What is a tattoo question you wish people would stop asking?
I wish people would stop calling me over the phone and asking how much a sleeve is. The thing is that it could cost anywhere from $1500 to $5000. So, it’s best to come see us about that in our shop.
Where is the weirdest place you have ever tattooed before?
Probably outside of a metal show in 2009. It was a battle-of-bands event and I was tattooing logos, skulls, really anything. I’ve tattooed at a lot of shows.
What do you do when you are not at the shop tattooing?
Honestly, when I’m not doing this, I’m taking care of my kids and spending as much time with them as I can, working on my own craft to be a better artist. A common misconception is that we are all bad people.
Mark Boller - @customtattoosbymark
Latrobe, PA - experience - 1.5 yrs
What do you think about young people getting face tattoos?
They shouldn’t get it. You have a longtime until you figure out a solid place in your life. A face tattoo is not a good one to start. I’ll be the first one to deny them, even though I know other shops will do them. Either way, I highly suggest not doing it.
Where did you work before this?
I worked at UPMC as a security guard.
What is one tattoo tip that you would suggest to a client?
Don’t over think it. Do your research on the artist. Also, try to keep it simple and let you artist help you design it.
ICE NINE TATTOO STUDIO
Terrel Crawford - @3vosgraflife
Upstate, NY - experience - 6 yrs
What did your parents think about your job?
They actually took me to shops when they got tattooed. From a young age I was pretty used to the environment. I’m glad I actually got into the field.
