Many tattoo artists in Texas’s capital city deserve your attention. Our team selected the nine best artists in Austin from them to check out first.
In this article, you’ll learn how those artists came to this field, what styles they work in, and what they do besides tattooing. We hope this article will allow you to get to know them better and choose which one of them will ink your future tattoo.
On top of our list of the best tattoo artists, in this article, we’ll share an insight into the 5 most popular tattoo shops in Austin along with Texas tattoo laws. Sit tight and get ready!!
Tattoo Regulations in Texas
Let’s start with the laws and regulations that apply to tattoo artists and their clients in Texas. You should also be aware of them as well, to avoid unpleasant situations, such as health problems or paying a fine.
For clients
- If you are under the age of 18, you must obtain consent from your parent or guardian.
- The only exception to the rule above is cover-up tattoos. For example, to cover a tattoo that contains offensive language, gang-related marks, or drug-related symbols.
- The parent or guardian must show ID and be present during the tattooing.
- If you are under the age of 18, you are not permitted to lie about your age to get a tattoo.
For tattoo artists
- Texas tattoo artists must follow the Texas Administrative Code, which prohibits them from tattooing anyone under the age of eighteen.
- Also, this code prohibits tattoo artists from inking anyone who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- It is crucial to report any infection or adverse reaction to the Texas Department of State Health Services.
- Last but not least, they must keep a record of every person who has gotten a tattoo.
Best Tattoo Artists in Austin
We divided this part into three sections, where we discuss tattoo artists who work in both traditional and Japanese styles, those who focus solely on traditional styles, and those who convey beauty through the use of a single color and its shades.
All the tattoo artists listed here are the greatest in their field, they follow all workplace health and safety regulations, keep their certificates up to date, and don’t miss a chance to learn and develop their skills. After reading, you will be able to decide which tattoo artist is the best for you.
Traditional and Japanese Style Artists
Here we featured four of the best tattoo artists who work confidently in both traditional and Japanese styles. Each of them has their zeal, which they use to win over their customers.
Hector Fong
Hector Fong is a tattoo artist with over two decades of experience. He began his career in 2001, focusing on both traditional and Japanese styles. He also enjoys customizing merch and has occasionally released clothing featuring his paintings.
Fong’s commitment to his craft is palpable, as you may notice by the intricate details and Japanese cultural references incorporated into each design. He currently works at Rock of Ages Tattooing shop and will gladly ink your desired tattoo.
Bart Bingham
Bart Bingham’s path to tattooing was not exactly straightforward. His journey began with a teenage rebellion spirit and a friend’s dare, which led to getting a tattoo before he was legally allowed to ink one.
Such an occurrence sparked a passion in him, and by the age of 17, Bart was already practicing with a needle. Although he’s been tattooing since 1993, it was in the 2000s that he gained enough experience to begin working as a certified professional.
Bart spent many years in New York City at New York Adorned tattoo studio (before it became a piercing shop), and as of 2019, he can be found at Great Wave Tattoo Studio.
Ben Siebert
If you are looking for a tattoo artist to ink your bodysuit, then look no further than Ben Siebert. Ben’s affinity for art began in high school, which eventually led him to the tattooing path. He’s been tattooing for over 15 years and has mastered large-scale traditional and Japanese works, combining designs from Eastern and Western cultures.
Ben co-founded the well-known Great Wave Tattoo in 2006, demonstrating his commitment to the craft. However, his current place of business is Burning Hand Tattoo shop.
Jason Brooks
Jason Brooks has been a professional tattoo artist since 1992 and is the founder and co-owner of Great Wave Tattoo.
Brooks is recognized internationally for his unique style of contemporary tattooing, with a focus on classic American and Japanese styles. He has also exhibited his work in a solo museum exhibition at the Dallas Contemporary. In addition to tattooing, he focuses on painting.
Jason has also been involved in the founding and operation of several tattoo shops in Austin. He continues to be an influential figure in the tattoo community. This is evident in the way his work is used as inspiration in profiles, and interviews to learn from his experience.
Traditional Style Artists
The two tattoo artists listed below are traditional-style professionals. Their portfolios are bold and vibrant, as they have 15+ years of experience and have a lot to show you.
David Parker
David Parker began his tattooing career in 2005 and has since worked at various well-known tattoo studios and learned from real pros, which you can ask him about at the session.
Parker’s style is described as talented and eclectic, with a focus on amplifying the ideas of his clients. He specializes in large custom pieces with traditional themes and has tattooed professionally for over 15 years.
His work is known for its quality and custom designs, making him a sought-after artist in the Austin tattoo community.
James Yocum
James Yocum has been working in the tattoo industry for 15 years and has been trained by his friend Tick at Black Rat Tattoo.
James has experience in various tattoo styles like Japanese, animalistic, and blackwork, and has worked in different shops throughout his career. He is known for his unique and diverse work, which showcases his versatility as a tattoo artist.
Yocum’s work can be found at Great Wave Tattoo, where he continues to create and ink his talent.
Black-and-Gray Style Artists
It’s amazing how many different people get into the tattoo industry. We’ve got three extraordinary stories about three different people who met in the same place and now work together. All of them work in a mesmerizing black-and-gray style.
Mingo Velasco
Mingo Velasco had no intention of becoming a tattoo artist at first, having previously worked as a welder and machinist in the metal industry.
However, tattoos were always close to him because they were common in his family. As a teenager, he even got his first hand-poked tattoo due to his surroundings and closest ones.
Mingo realized his passion could become a career after meeting a friend, who was an experienced tattoo parlor owner. Mingo began with the American traditional style and later discovered the world of black-and-gray realism. Hours of dedicated practice honed his signature style. You can see for yourself by viewing the photos below or browsing his portfolio.
Paolo Grippo
Paolo Grippo was born in Baltimore and grew up in a creative environment. His mother’s artistic background fueled his passion, leading him to the Baltimore School of Art.
He honed his drawing and oil painting skills at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, laying the groundwork for his future success.
Pablo enjoys working with natural subjects, from wildflowers to majestic animals. His black-and-gray works capture the soul of the world and nature, but realistic portraits also find their place in his portfolio.
Nathan Hebert
Nathan Hebert is a well-known tattoo artist and the owner of Vice and Virtue Tattoo in Austin, Texas. He’s been a tattoo artist for over a decade and understands how to transform your ideas into intricate masterpieces.
In 2019, he started his tattoo studio in a modern and minimalist setting. There, he works and accepts orders depending on the client’s loose idea.
He enjoys working on large-scale tattoos with landscapes, animals, portraiture, and horror motifs. Unfortunately, he is not doing cover-ups right now.
Best Tattoo Studios in Austin
There are over 100 tattoo studios in Austin, but we’ve selected the five best and want to share them with you.
🎸 Rock of Ages Tattooing
With over 40 years of experience, this historic gem embodies tradition while adding a modern twist. The diverse artists, including the well-known Hector Fong, cover a wide range of styles, from classic black-and-gray to Japanese motifs.
🏯 Ink Empire
This contemporary studio takes pride in creating custom tattoos that tell your unique story. Their experienced artists are proficient in a wide range of styles, from subtle fonts to intricate black-and-gray realism.
🌊 Great Wave Tattoo
Led by the experienced Jason Brooks, this renowned establishment boasts a talented team (some of whom you’ve already known) with styles ranging from classic American to sophisticated realism.
💛 Lost Edge Tattoo
This welcoming space features everything from dark art and biomechanical drawings to blackwork and illustrative works. Their dedicated artists strive to push the boundaries and create tattoos that reflect your inner essence.
🖤 Vice and Virtue
This studio, which specializes in neo-traditional and illustrative tattoos, is distinguished by its bold lines and vibrant colors. When you enter their welcoming space, you will be greeted by a gallery of vibrant designs ready to adorn your body. Don’t be afraid to present your ideas, the artists welcome your initiative.
Summary
So, have you decided which of the Austin tattoo artists will do your tattoo? Did Ben Siebert’s bold Japanese-inspired designs pique your interest? Perhaps Mingo Velasco’s enchanting black-and-gray realism speaks to your soul. Maybe David Parker’s vibrant, traditional themes fit your vision.
Each of these nine greatest tattoo artists in Austin would welcome your ideas and visits. To ensure that everything will go smoothly, review the tattoo laws again, as well as our list of the top five studios in this city. Awesome tattoos to you!
FAQ
🏆 Who Is the Best Tattoo Artist in Austin?
It’s difficult to pinpoint a single person, so we looked into the nine best tattoo artists in Austin and presented their best artworks in our collection.
💸 How Much Does a Tattoo Cost in Austin?
On average, small tattoos may start at approximately $40 per square inch, while larger and more intricate pieces can range from $200.
📍 What Are the Top Tattoo Places in Austin, TX?
All the tattoo studios mentioned above deserve your attention. We recommend Great Wave Tattoo and Ink Empire because they have the highest ratings and customer reviews.
🔞 How Old Do I Need To Be To Get a Tattoo in Austin?
You must be at least 18 years old, or have parental consent if you are under 18. When getting tattooed, you must provide a valid ID to confirm your age. Keep in mind that some tattoo studios may have additional policies, so check with your tattoo artist about any studio-specific rules.
