Keep Your Appointment (and What to Do When They Don't)

 Tattoo Nerd,

 I have been in the business for about 8 years now, and I have this client that got work from me when I was just staring out.  I hear from her once every year or so.  She asks about a tattoo for herself or a friend, and sets an appointment.  We hash out some of the details before I notice that she is getting a little flakey about keeping in contact and confirming her appointment.  This last week, she settled on a day but not a time, told me two days prior that she would get back to me about the design, never confirmed, and did not respond to any of my messages the day of the tattoo.  It is frustrating, and I am thinking that I should just write her off and not deal with her anymore.  I feel bad, because she was one of my first clients, but I think I have hit my limit.

 What do you think?

 First of all, let me say that I just love that people are starting to refer to me as "Tattoo Nerd".  I consider it high praise that I am being recognized for my work.  

 I think we, as tattoo artists, have all had clients like the one you described,  In fact, probably multiple clients.  I am not certain if the problem is a matter of casual disrespect or an exaggerated view of tattoo artists.  On the one hand, it could be that people do not consider being a tattoo artist a "real" profession.  They have no real concept of the time, dedication, and effort that goes into being a tattooer, often because they have not experienced that kind of effort in their own pursuits.  They may also fail to recognize the expense of setting-up for a tattoo or drawing a design in advance, because, hey, that is what we do for fun, right? 

 On the other hand, they may realize we are professionals and have a high degree of respect for what we do.  In their minds, we tattooers are all "cool".  We are causal and laid back.  If they cannot make their appointment, it is okay, because we are hip and understanding.  That is why we are tattooers, because we are cool and talented.  It is no big deal to us.  

 Dear friends and tattoo patrons, neither of these perspectives are correct.  Tattooers are business professionals.  They can be more casual about their approach to business, but when you fail to make your appointment it hurts our bottom-line.  We are not paid an hourly wage, and any time we spend engaged with a client is with the goal of there being a cash-reward for our efforts.  This includes email exchanges, phone calls, drawing, follow-up discussions, confirmation of an appointment, and setting-up for the tattoo.  Those materials on the tattooers table; medical liners, ink caps, needles, tubes, inks, paper towels, ointments, etc, are not cheap, and come out of the tattooer's wallet.  The shop may provide for some of his or her supplies, but even that is with the expectation that a cash-reward will result from their use.  When you skip-out on an appointment, it is costing your artist money.

 As a customer, ask yourself this: you set an appointment with your tattooer and when you arrive at the studio, he or she is not there.  No call, no note, just not there.  How many times would this need to happen before you sought out another tattooer?  If you put up with this twice, you are extremely charitable.  

 It is tempting, as a tattooer, to take this attitude and black-list those clients that consistently skip-out on appointments.  As business-persons, we cannot afford that mentality.  Think of it this way; you own a retail store.  There is a guy who comes in once a week.  He browses your wares, asks you some questions, doesn't cause any problems, and doesn't buy anything,  He just wastes some of your time.  You could tell him to buy something or get out, but that will create an unhappy customer.  He WILL tell everyone he knows that you treated him badly; the fact that he was wasting your time weekly and never made an actual purchase will not be mentioned.  Not only have you made no money, you now have a black-mark against your reputation as a business.  You are better off just dealing with it, and maybe one glorious day that "customer" will actually buy something.

 When a tattooer is just starting out, we feel lucky just to have someone consider us for work.  We listen to every pie-in-the-sky promise to be on-time for an appointment, to bring friends to us, to help get our name out, etc.  It takes a few years to realize that cash is king, and that all the promises in the world are meaningless until the money is in your hand.  It takes a few more years before we are good enough to establish that kind of standard.  An appointment is not an appointment without a deposit.  When I started out, my clients would have balked at the idea that they needed to pay me $50 in advance to keep a slot in my schedule open for them.  Now, it is expected that my time comes at a premium.

 For sentimental reasons, I understand the reservations about changing the way you handle one of your first clients, but after 8 years of experience, you have grown enough to start being taken seriously.  Don't black-list your clients, but do let the know that you have grown as a tattooer and that your time is in demand.  When your client reaches out to you again for a tattoo, let them know that you cannot set an appointment without a deposit.  No drawing anything up, no penciling anyone in.  When they are ready to pay a deposit, they are ready to set an appointment.  They are always welcome to walk-in and see if you are available, but without cash in advance there will be no promises.  Those who appreciate your work and respect the value of your time will have no problem with your policy. 

 Jason Sorrell is a writer, tattoo artist, satirist, artist, and generally nice guy living in Austin, TX.  He loves answering questions about tattoos.  Shoot him a message at https://www.facebook.com/tattoonerdz/.

2015 Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival Wrap-Up (Days Three and Four)

 If you would like to read about the Opening Party (Day One), click here. 

 If you would like to read about the Convention Floor (Day Two), click here.

 There is nothing quite like a tattoo convention.  Studios, artists, suppliers, vendors, and entertainers from all over the world set-up to show their collective stuff to the public and to share what they do with the industry.  The biggest conventions, like the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival, draw international crowds, giving local artists an opportunity to rub elbows with the best in the industry and make their mark (literally).  The Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival is an annual event in Austin, usually scheduled in January for one weekend.  Most years I manage to visit for one day, often on a run to score a deal on tattoo-ink sets and other supplies while checking out the latest innovations in the industry.  This year, one of my daughters gave me a weekend-pass as a Christmas present, so I will be going every day and taking in as many of the events as possible.

Brass Ovaries Pole Dancing

 I had the opportunity to speak to some folks on the street on the way to the convention each day I attended.  I found it interesting that even those that frequent the area around the Palmer Event Center, where the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival was being held, were not aware that a tattoo convention was happening.  Those I spoke with seemed even more surprised when I suggested that they should check it out.  The Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival is for more than just tattooers and collectors.  Anyone interested in art and culture will find something worthwhile at the convention, and in my opinion it is as much a part of the Austin-Experience as a visit to Barton Springs.

 As the name implies, the convention's focus is on art. This includes not only the tattoos and the tattoo influenced art work, but also the entertainment arts which have a deep bond with the tattoo industry. Tattooing has long been a form of cultural expression just outside the mainstream, and as such has a historical connection with other forms of "low-brow" art; strip-tease, burlesque, and circus side-shows.  These three inter-related forms of entertainment shared a distinction of being of dubious repute; frowned upon by civic leaders while greatly enjoyed by the common man. Their "outsider" status gave the entertainers and performers of these art forms more freedom to be tattooed without any further social stigma, and getting a tattoo was often a sign of their commitment to the art form they practiced and the life-style those practices demanded.

Doubledown Dixie

 Tattooing has come a long way since the prohibition days, and because of the support shown to the tattoo industry in those times by other outside artists, the tattoo industry often favors these groups.  The evening show at the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival serves to underscore that deep bond.  Routinely hosted are side-show and carnival performers, exotic dancers, comedians, and magicians.  This year was no exception.  Each night closed with performances by Brass Ovaries Pole Dancing, a burlesque set by Doubledown Dixie, and a side-show performance by The Lizard Man.

 Unfortunately, the stage lighting was not conducive to my camera, so the images included here were borrowed from the web-pages of the performers.

 The two performers from Brass Ovaries Pole Dancing performed a beautiful and impressively athletic set of dances.  A portable pole was set-up on stage, and the girls provided amazing examples of aerial athleticism.  Brass Ovaries Pole Dancing offers training in their art to those seeking a distinctively different way to get in shape; regardless of age or gender.  They are also available to perform at parties and events, at an extremely affordable rate.

 There is something markedly refreshing about burlesque.  It is sensual, even sexual, but also tasteful, high-spirited, and irreverently innocent.  It always seems like burlesque dancers are having fun, and Doubledown Dixie epitomizes fun.  Curvy and energetic, Doubledown Dixie took the stage with a wink and mischievous smile.  Her dance routine was beautiful to behold, drawing in the crowd and making them root for more.  

The Lizardman

 Erik "The Lizard Man" Sprague was the act that I was really excited to see.  I am fascinated by the limits of the human body and the extremes we will often go to in order to express ourselves.  "Extreme" well-describes the Lizard Man.  The Lizard Man has spent around 700 hours under the needle having scales tattooed all over his body.  He has several piercings and has stretched his earlobes to allow him to lift weights and even pull cars with his ears.  He has subdermal implants over each of his eyes to form horned ridges, a bifurcated tongue, and has filed his teeth into fangs.

 He demonstrated these modifications, performed unique versions of traditional side-show stunts including the Human Blockhead, Sword Swallowing, and Plate Spinning (on a pin based in his nasal sinus).  He and his two assistants also engaged in an attempt at comedy. The banter had its moments, but I read that he leads a band and hope he fairs better as a musical performer.  Still, it was an amazing and entertaining performance.

 You will be hard-pressed to see another collection of entertainers like this anywhere but at a tattoo convention.

 In addition to the nightly show, there are daily tattoo contests.  These contests allow collectors to show off their tattoos and honor the artists behind them.  Each day, different categories are opened to convention-goers to enter.  A panel of three judges gauges the tattoos on their artistic merit, body placement, and technical quality.  During the day, the contests are open to only tattoos that have healed completely.  In the evening, the "Tattoo of the Day" contest is held, with tattoos done at the convention that day being entered and judged.  The winners receive a hand-made sculptural award and bragging rights.  

 As I stated, these contests are an excellent way to honor your tattoo artist.  Nothing says that you are proud of the work they have done more than being willing to show it off and have it judged.  A crowd gathers for each contest, allowing you to show your tattoo and let everyone know who you artist is.  Even if you do not win, it is a great tribute.

 The Star Of Texas Tattoo Art Revival should be on your Austin to-do list, as should be a visit to a convention in your area if you are not in Austin.  Not all art is in a gallery, and your patronage supports local artists and craftsmen, as well as exposes you to a cultural experience unlike any other.  I recommend selecting a day to check out the entire convention; from opening to close, and if you know an artist participating to show your support by paying them a visit or even getting some work done.  

 Jason Sorrell is a writer, tattoo artist, satirist, artist, and generally nice guy living in Austin, TX.  He loves answering questions about tattoos.  Shoot him a message at https://www.facebook.com/tattoonerdz/

2015 Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival Convention Floor (Day Two)

 If you would like to read about the Opening Party (Day One), click here. 

 There is nothing quite like a tattoo convention.  Studios, artists, suppliers, vendors, and entertainers from all over the world set-up to show their collective stuff to the public and to share what they do with the industry.  The biggest conventions, like the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival, draw international crowds, giving local artists an opportunity to rub elbows with the best in the industry and make their mark (literally).  The Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival is an annual event in Austin, usually scheduled in January for one weekend.  Most years I manage to visit for one day, often on a run to score a deal on tattoo-ink sets and other supplies while checking out the latest innovations in the industry.  This year, one of my daughters gave me a weekend-pass as a Christmas present, so I will be going every day and taking in as many of the events as possible.

 

 First of all, let's start with some convention tips:

 -Know when the convention opens.  I was under the impression that the convention opened at 10am, when it in fact opened at noon.  I arrived at 11, while artists were still setting up.  My bad.

 -Wear comfortable shoes.  This comes from past experience.  My Doc Martens are awesome boots, but walking and standing in them for hours is tough on the feet.

 -Check out all the vendors and artists booths before you start spending.  There are over 250 exhibitors displaying their talents and wares.  You may regret an impulse purchase at the front end of the show when you get around to the back end. 

Chris Trevino!

 -Bring a bottle of water.  Even on a cool day, all the bodies milling around on the convention floor will generate some heat.  You may also want to leave your jacket in the car.

 -If you can, make your purchases on your way out.  Even carrying a poster can start to get cumbersome after an hour or two.

 -Treat the portfolios gently.  Take a look through each of the portfolios.  Compliment the artists if they are on hand.  There are no slackers at the convention.  Everyone brought their A-game.

 -Watch where you are stepping, and be courteous.  There are a lot of bodies milling around, so be careful and try to show everyone a little respect.

Kids Corner

 -Ask permission before taking pictures of people getting tattooed.  Most people getting work done at a convention are comfortable with being seen, but it is always best to ask.

 The Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival has been a local event for 13 years running, and is one of the largest tattoo conventions in Texas.  Each year, hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of patrons visit the convention to see the art, enjoy the shows, and get tattoos.

 For tattoo artists, conventions offer a number of opportunities.  Seminars on everything from tattoo safety to styles of art are held during conventions, giving artists and chance to learn and grow.  Talent from all over the world is often drawn to the convention, allowing artists to see what others are doing and hone their own skills based on the practices they observe.  The event allows local shops to reach out to the community and share what they do, drawing additional business for the rest of the year.  It is a great time to meet with vendors and see new innovations in the industry being offered to make the tattoo process safer and better for customers and tattooers.  It is also a great time to show their stuff, rub elbows with leaders in the tattoo field, and enjoy being immersed in the tattoo culture.

Daaron Davis!

 It was awesome to observe some of these guys and gals at work, and to talk to them about what they have going on.  Daaron Davis, Phil Hatchet Yau, Chris Trevino, and their clients, were all cool enough to let me photograph them while they did their thing.  Each was engaged in an impressive piece of art, and I did not want to be too much of a distraction.  

 For visitors, collectors, and the curious, there is plenty going on as well.  You not only have some of the most amazing talent on display available to give you a great tattoo, you also have an incredible collection of fine and graphic artists sharing their creations.  The Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival features an art gallery of tattoo-themed art, ranging from traditional tattoo work to pieces that rival classical fine art.  At the booths, artists offer small pieces and prints to give even those on a modest budget an opportunity to own a piece of out-of-the-ordinary art.  Children are welcomed and encouraged to visit the Kids Corner, where they can get pictures as a tattoo gal or gent, get fake tattoos, and color tattoo coloring pages.  At 7pm Friday and Saturday, several performers take the stage, offering exotic attractions that will impress and amaze.

Art Gallery

 The crowd today was already building before the doors opened at noon, and only grew as the day went on.  Machines were buzzing as soon as the doors were open.  It is not uncommon for tattoo artists to schedule appointments for conventions (if you wish to be tattooed by a participating artists, appointments in advance are always a good idea), but many of the artists were ready to take walk-ups.  The portfolios on display all featured some amazing work, making the toughest choice often who to get a tattoo from.  For those wanting to become tattoo artists themselves, the convention offers a great opportunity to pick the brains of some of the best in the industry, as all the artists are more open to discuss the business at these events.  It is also an excellent chance to observe tattoos being rendered by masters of the craft.  

Phil Hatchet Yau!

  Every time I go the convention, there is always at least one piece of art that really catches my eye, and I find I have to have a print or copy of the work.  I recently realized that almost without fail, that art work was created by one artist, Mr. Joey Ortega.  I bought one of his pieces years ago when I went to my first Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival, and wouldn't you know it that as I walked the booths today I saw a piece I liked and it was one of his.  Joey Ortega has designed the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival poster for years, and this year it was my great honor to finally meet the man and humbly have my photo taken with him.  Thank you, sir!

Joey Ortega with some Tattoo Nerd

 I will also be remiss if I did not mention who I spent most of the afternoon with.  Mr. Kyle Giffen and his tattoo studio, Little Pricks Tattoos, saved me from several hours on my feet while I chatted Kyle up on everything from the tattoo biz to our personal lives.  Kyle is by far one of the most talented tattoo artists I know, and he has put together a stellar crew, arguably one of the best crews in the Greater Austin Area.  Anyone who knows Kyle also knows that the man is always humble, upbeat, open, and incredibly generous with his time and talents.  Kyle is a great friend, and the convention is always an opportunity for us to get together and catch-up on things.  The work of his crew; Tita Jewels (co-owner), Zack Ross, and Chris Hedlund, is simply outstanding.  This year, they are located catercorner from the art gallery.  Stop by their booth, check them out, and grab a card.  If you are wanting a tattoo, you have found the right shop.

Kyle Giffen!

 The Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival really is a great event, even if you are not tattoo-inclined.  The art and the vibe are well worth experiencing.  The convention will be going strong for two more days, and if you miss it you will not get another chance to see it until 2016.

 I also wanted to say thank you to everyone that made my being at the convention as a spectator this year possible.  The little fundraiser I held allowed the Tattoo Nerd to take time off of work to be at the convention all four days, and to really make the most of the weekend.  It was humbling to see so much support and love from so many people, and my family and I cannot thank you enough!  

Jason Sorrell is a writer, tattoo artist, satirist, artist, and generally nice guy living in Austin, TX.  He loves answering questions about tattoos.  Shoot him a message at https://www.facebook.com/tattoonerdz/

2015 Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival Opening Party (Day One)

 There is nothing quite like a tattoo convention.  Studios, artists, suppliers, vendors, and entertainers from all over the world set-up to show their collective stuff to the public and to share what they do with the industry.  The biggest conventions, like the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival, draw international crowds, giving local artists an opportunity to rub elbows with the best in the industry and make their mark (literally).  The Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival is an annual event in Austin, usually scheduled in January for one weekend.  Most years I manage to visit for one day, often on a run to score a deal on tattoo-ink sets and other supplies while checking out the latest innovations in the industry.  This year, one of my daughters gave me a weekend-pass as a Christmas present, so I will be going every day and taking in as many of the events as possible.

 The first day starts with many of the studios and vendors setting up Friday evening, and an opening party hosted by a local tattoo studio.  This year, the opening party was hosted by Black Dagger Tattoo, and held at The Badlands Bar with an art show at the Romani Gallery, both located near the intersection of East 12th St. and Chicon.  The doors opened at 8:30pm, and your intrepid tattoo-reporter arrived fashionably late at 9:30.

 When I arrived, the place was packed.  Visitors from far-off lands like Chicago and Utah were all abuzz about the art that was inside and the events planned for the weekend.  This was a small taste of things to come.

 The Romani Gallery is a wonderful, intimate space that had kindly donated its walls to show some of the best tattoo-art from the convention participants.  The artists appear to have participated in a round-robin type project where each of them was assigned to create a piece of original work for another participating artist.  None of the artists new who drew their name, only who they were making a piece for.  This was a wonderful way to get the creative juices flowing, resulting in some amazing work.

 American Traditional style was dominant throughout the show, indicative not only of the kind of work that is popular in Austin, but according to one visitor from out of town just about everywhere.  Almost every artist put their own creative-spin on this time-time honored style, mixing Western and Science Fiction themes, expressing spiritual concepts, or going for a little weirdness.  There were also a few beautifully rendered Traditional Japanese pieces, offering an interesting point of contrast to much of the rest of the show.  Prints and drinks were available for purchase, and everyone seemed impressed and excited with what they saw.

 One of the things I love about that tattoo community is that collectors all seem to have a natural bond, and a certain irreverence.  It was on full-display at the party, and everyone had a great time.  If you missed it, plan on going with some of your friends next year.  More to come from the convention tomorrow!

Jason Sorrell is a writer, tattoo artist, satirist, artist, and generally nice guy living in Austin, TX.  He loves answering questions about tattoos.  Shoot him a message at https://www.facebook.com/tattoonerdz/