Walked in, got a new tattoo & some touch up on an older tat. Mike was great to work with and does quality work. If in Gainesville, this is the place to go. If in area again, I will definitely stop in to cross another of the tattoo's that I want done off the list.  Reasonably priced too. Read Less

I've been tattooed at seven different shops over the years and Anthem is by far the best of the bunch. The shop feels clean and comfortable with a much nicer, roomier space due to it being in a converted house as opposed to a traditional retail space. Every wall is covered by art and color which really elevates your senses and gets you ready for the experience.I've been tattooed four times by Tim Strating and he is an amazing, talented artist. My first visit was as a walk-in and within half an hour he had drawn up a piece which surpassed what I had imagined or hoped for when trying to explain to him my vision for the work. He's really skilled with the tattoo gun as well, never feeling heavy-handed and always purposeful with every stroke. The completed work was so beyond my expectations and left me so delighted that I've continued coming to him for the rest of my eventual sleeve.In this time, I've also met some of the other artists at Anthem and they're always friendly, funny and a pleasure to be around. Their work is also unparalleled and you can't go wrong with anyone at the shop. My girlfriend has been tattooed several times by Rich; she is also equally pleased with the work and we both think highly of him.The shop's management is also super friendly, well organized and really on top of everything. They even give you a call ahead of your appointment as a reminder, just like a doctor's office would. Everything about Anthem is just a step above and beyond anything else I've experienced in almost 20 years of experience being tattooed in other shops and cities. Don't hesitate to come in for a consultation if you're looking for a great place to get tattooed in Gainesville! Read Less

Tim Strating is the actual BEST.  He's responsive, patient, compassionate, funny, and, probably most important: a great tattoo artist.  I gave him some pictures and ideas of what I wanted, but also really tried to give him creative freedom, too.  I'm really happy with the tattoo I got. It wasn't what I imagined, but actually much better. This was only my second one (just got started, at age 50), so I'm still learning, and he was great about answering questions.  Also, everyone at Anthem is super nice and took really good care of me.  Thanks so much! Read Less

Great experience! Rich was able to fit me in as a walk in & did an awesome job bringing my design to life. You can tell he loves what he does. I can’t say enough about the wonderful atmosphere at Anthem . I liked having a private room, everything was clean & definitely a cut above the usual studios. Read Less

Getting ink is always awesome at Anthem! Everyone is so nice, the shop is always super clean, and the artists are top notch. Whether you are getting your first tattoo, or your 20th, go see the guys at Anthem! You will not be disappointed! Read Less

Rich is awesome. This is my ninth tattoo with him. He knocked it out the park. Everyone is so down to earth easy going, great people to hang with while getting inked. Atmosphere is inviting. I will definitely be going back again. Read Less

I was looking for a reputable tattoo parlor and discovered this place through Yelp. Reviews were outstanding and I'm so glad I chose them for my new ink. Tim did a great job and I know I will be returning soon. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for quality ink work. There are some talented artists here. Thank you, Anthem Tattoo Parlor, for providing such professional service.Read Less

Got my first tattoo today and the experience was awesome. Walked in, spoke with the lady at the desk, she was able to get me in with Rich Mal right then an there. Told Rich what I was thinking and he came back with something even better than what I could have imagined. Rich did great work and made my experience one to remember. My wife and I will only be getting our ink from Anthem Tattoo Parlor. Thanks guys. Highly recommended. Clean, Professionals, and Art Work is the best in Gainesville. Read Less

Shout out to Enrique at Anthem who did an awesome job on my first tattoo today. The shop was clean and friendly and Enrique was patient and worked with all of my requests. I would definitely recommend! Read Less

Shout out to Enrique at Anthem who did an awesome job on my first tattoo today. The shop was clean and friendly and Enrique was patient and worked with all of my requests. I would definitely recommend! Read Less

Amazing!!!! I had a fantastic experience with Rich yesterday. We traded emails for a couple of weeks (I don't live in FL) and set up an appointment. I sent Rich a picture that I felt a strong connection to and man did he NAIL IT!!! His artistry, professionalism, compassion, humor, conversation made the inking (a 5 hour process-this tattoo covers almost my entire left calf) a really peaceful and reflective experience. Rich is an artist who creates WITH SOUL and FEELING. Anthem Tattoo is it!!! Love this place. Read Less

Rich did a great job my sister and I got matching tattoos it was her first tattoo and she did amazing thank you so much for your great work love to the shop it's a totally unique tattoo place love the building and all the decorations inside!!!!! Read Less

Was recommended anthem by a co-worker for my first tat ever. The shop is amazing and Tim was great with keeping me calm though I was insanely nervous about both getting something that would last forever and that I'm scared needles definitely would recommend them to anyone. Read Less

Best first tattoo experience ever, if I do say so myself!!! Tim really helped me feel at ease with my ideas and even played my favorite music while getting inked! I am in love with my gorgeous forever art and will definitely be returning very soon :) <3 official #cotf Read Less

Loved this place! The shop is super clean and homey inside. I got my first tattoo from Rich last week, he was so personable and patient. It was definitely everything I was looking for in terms of experience and outcome! Read Less

I was welcomed at the door and besides the professional, friendly atmosphere, I noticed how clean the facility was. I was assisted by two different staff and treated with respect, patience which maked me feel very comfortable with my decision. I was provided with as much time as I needed to make my choices. Their insight was excellent. Jill Read Less

Tim is an amazing artist and a super smooth tattooer. I got mine done in a convention style setting and the commotion and gawking did not phaze him at all. I would recommend him to anyone looking! Thanks again Tim! Read Less

I've been going to see Dave (Sleepy Dave) at Anthem for around 8yrs now, since they were at the old location off 6th St.Before I ever went to Anthem I actually did a ton of research on tattoo artists and shops because I was looking for someone who did black and grey portraits. I was willing to travel wherever I needed to go because obviously it's permanent and going on my body. So you can imagine my surprise when one of the artists I came across was Sleepy Dave and he was at Anthem, which is in Gainesville (hot damn)! I made an appt to go in for a consultation with drawings I had for my tattoo. The Shop: has always been very clean and nice (old location and new location). They're located in a cool historic house on NW 2nd Ave. All the artists are set up in what used to be bedrooms throughout the house (so if you're getting your tattoo and your bits are showing they can close the door for privacy). There's flash on the walls when you walk in, I would like to point out that they've drawn a bunch of their own flash and won awards at conventions for their awesome drawings. They all take their sanitation practices very seriously and keep their workstations sterile and equipment properly maintained. The Staff: Sam runs the house and she keeps all of them in check (just kidding). She's super sweet though and chances are you will talk to her when you call in or go down to the shop. Dave is the artist I've personally been seeing for years and he's amazing! His portraits are truly some of the most beautiful pieces of art I've ever seen. I haven't been tattooed by the other artists but I know them from going to the shop for so long and I've seen their work, had friends who have been tattooed by them, known some for years so I feel comfortable and confident to speak to their abilities. Everyone there can do different styles but they all have their own niche that you can see they've perfected. They've all had years of training so you can feel comfortable that they all know what they're doing. Tim, I've known since we were kids and he is also an amazing artist who has won a bunch of awards for his work. I just referred a friend to him for his awesome work. Katie Ryan also does some amazing work, Rich Mal and Mike Salay are certainly not "last on the list" they've both been tattooing for many years and do some absolutely beautiful work! They also bring in guest artists from all over and they all do their own guest appearances across the US so if you have a friend in another state they could potentially help recommend someone or may be in the area themselves to do a tattoo! You can check out all of them on social media and in their extensive portfolios at the shop. When I say this is the best tattoo shop around it's not just a bias, it's because years ago I personally put a lot of effort into looking for a sanitary shop with awesome artists and this is it. This place is literally my sanctuary, you will leave feeling better than when you went in because everyone is fun and hilarious and leaves with a smile (sore abs from laughing) and a beautiful new piece of artwork! They can take walk-ins but if you want a big, elaborate piece don't just assume you can walk in for that. Call first, make an appt. they may be booked out but they are all worth the wait, I promise. These guys (gals) are all professionals, talk to them about what you want, they can draw things up for you or may be able to help you with an idea that isn't fully "finished" in your head. Listen to what they have to say as far as sizing (if you wanted an entire car engine the size of a thumbnail they may tell you it needs to be bigger, listen to them. They know what they're talking about and will help make sure that your vision comes out perfectly! Make sure you go check these guys out for your next piece! Read Less

I hate to be the first to give less than five stars, but I don't think I got Mike's best work. I have a few friends with some really awesome pieces from him, and I'm just not happy with the color and the shading. I got orchids in Dec 2012 and specifically asked for no yellow (because it doesn't show up on my skin) and no spots or stripes. But while he was working on it he told me he thought it needed both those elements, and if I don't really like it I can come get it fixed. But I moved away within a couple months. I'm finally having it filled in at a place where I live now and I felt the need to give this feedback. Read Less

Love this tattoo shop so much, the drive from Tallahassee is worth it. Katie is my girl but all the other tattooer's are also very nice and extremely talented. The shop is pretty small due to so many work stations but there is a decent selection of flash to choose from and the atmosphere is amazing. I live in Chicago now, but will definitely be making a trip here next time I'm in FL. Read Less

I got tattooed by KATIE last week. It was the end of the day Monday after Fest weekend, and to say the least, we were both SPENT. She still put in a bunch of time energy and thought that I could barely even get together for myself! KATIE is SO talented and thoughtful, she worked with me and explained why certain things would work and why others wouldn't look so great. She was kind, hilarious, and so entertaining. I can't wait to get tattooed by her again, even though I live in California. Not only was KATIE great, the shop itself is beautiful and has a great comfortable vibe, along with other artists who are great and funny as well. Read Less

Got a tattoo from the Fest flash sheet this past weekend.  Matt (who was guest spotting) did a great job.  The place was clean, the staff was friendly, and I love the way it came out!  And on top of it there was a prize wheel and I got my tattoo for free!  Great experience.  I will definitely be coming back next year during Fest for another tattoo! Read Less

This has to be one of the greatest tattoo shops all across the board! I have either gotten tattooed or have witnessed every artist at the shop and each artist is very talented at their craft and very diverse! You won't be disappointed!! Read Less

I just went in today to get my first tattoo and I enjoyed the service and the work that was shown and given. I went to other shops around town and didn't feel comfortable with them. Rich was the artist that helped me, he is awesome at helping you with the nerves and at providing amazing service. I will definitely go here again, and will definitely recommend this artist as well. Read Less

I just got my first tattoo yesterday by Rich! He was amazingly patient and great at keeping my mind off the pain. He was funny and friendly and made my visit excellent! My tattoo turned out beautiful. I was not sure of how to arrange it, but Rich made various stencils and we worked together to create something I loved. He was very through in explaining how to take care of the tattoo and answered all the questions my girlfriend and I had for him.I would definitely get another tattoo with him and recommend Anthem to anyone wondering where to get a tattoo.Thank you so much, Rich! :) Read Less

Just got my first tattoo ever done by Rich! I'm a super perfectionist so my biggest fear about getting a tattoo was the possibility of feeling pressured and ending up with something I wasn't 100% happy with. I went with my sister, who got hers first, and after seeing how patient Rich was with her, I felt comfortable enough to get mine too. Everyone we met at the shop was really cool and made us feel so welcomed. The whole process was a lot of fun, I will definitely go back if I ever get another tat! Thanks Rich!! #yatted Read Less

i just had my first tattoo with them three hours ago. and the staff are nice and patient! The decoration in the store looks quite professional. My artist, Katie, is super nice and professional, only female artist in the store. I barely felt any pain during and after my tattooing, and they gave me a sweeeeet note for how to clean and protect the tattoo while its healing. Read Less

Whether you are going to get your first tattoo or you are covering the last bit of your skin with ink, this place is excellent.  Very comfortable shop.  Lots of great art on the walls and there are books available for each artist so that you can get an idea of the talent.  Super friendly artists in a clean relaxed environment.  Katie gave me my 9th tattoo and she was patient and kind.  Simply a great tattoo artist that I can highly recommend. Read Less

I got my first tattoo done here a couple days ago, an abstract feather on my ribs, by Rich. I had an idea of what I wanted and where I wanted it and he drew it up beautifully. Everyone at Anthem was super friendly and easy to talk to. Rich did an amazing job and I couldn't be happier with the results. It was pretty painful because of where I got it, but Rich was super awesome with talking to me and making sure I was ok. I will 100% be going back here for future ink. Read Less

Anthem has a new location on 2nd Ave just east of 6th St. I visited yesterday to get a tattoo by Katie Ryan, and the entire experience was wonderful. This was my third tattoo - the first two were done at BodyTech. Although they turned out nicely, the experience there wasn't nearly as pleasant and welcoming as at Anthem. Katie first gave me a consultation a few weeks ago, where I explained what I was looking for. She talked it over with me, showed me some similar images, and quoted a price. I left a $50 deposit and made my appointment. Anthem's shop is clean, bright and very welcoming as soon as you walk in. It's an older house that was converted, and they've keep a lot of the charm which was nice. Katie did a great job, was very friendly and we had a nice conversation throughout the two hours. The tattoo came out beautifully, and I've already gotten several compliments from complete strangers while out running errands. I would definitely recommend Anthem to anyone looking for a tattoo. I felt completely comfortable, welcome and valued as a client, and I got a piece of artwork that I'm proud to display. Read Less

Got a tattoo here a few months ago; a night/day tree done by Mike Salay.The shop is clean and comfortable; as soon as I entered the first time, I was treated very politely and in a friendly manner. The front-of-the-house/apprentice, Rick went through my idea in detail and we discussed price and placement after which he recommended Mike to do my tattoo.The tattooing experience was very comfortable and I ended up with a great piece of art. Would definitely recommend this place, ESPECIALLY if you want an American Traditional tattoo, this is what they're known for! Read Less

The entire staff is talented and professional and extremely knowledgable. The atmosphere is awesome and the pricing is very reasonable. Mike Salay and "Sleepy" Dave Kotinsley are very personable and make you feel like you are truly valued as an individual wanting the best of the best.I would recommend going to Anthem Tattoo over any Tattoo parlor any time, any place, anywhere. They by far set the standards that all others should follow!! Read Less

This is an easy review. Anthem simply rocks, there's no better place to go. Everyone there is talented, but most of my half sleeve done there was from Sleepy Dave. I gave him basic guidelines of what I wanted and just told him to make it look good. He did a damn good job. Also a very laid back, fun joint compared to some other shops I've been in. Read Less

Anthem is located on 6th Ave just south of University Ave. They are open at 1pm, and you should make an appointment ahead of time if you have a large or custom piece.After hearing Dave's name around town when asking for artist recommendations, I decided to set up an appointment with him. 1.5 months later, I was in the seat getting my tattoo.Dave was real nice and professional. The environment was fun. The price was great. But most importantly, Dave took time to make my tattoo as amazing as it is. He spent a long time on it just to make sure it was perfect. It was like watching a master paint using oils.I'm definitely coming here next time I want to add... Read Less

i usually only do food stuff, but this is important dammit.i have five tattoos: one from a place in seattle, two from body tech, and two from anthem. one of the ones i had done at body tech looks pretty fucked up because he was arguing with my friend the entire time -- seriously. i digress.i've seen mike at anthem both times. i remember him from body tech -- you know, the one who wasn't a complete asshole -- and so i decided to roll with it the first time. the second time i chose him because i really like his sailor tattoos. i love the two tattoos, and i'll be going to him again.he gave me a typography tattoo on the left side of my chest. it was a lot more painful that i was expecting, but he talked me through it. it's my favorite tattoo. i took over a half hour when it came down to the details, but he was quite patient with me and explained why some of the choices i was making weren't going to work out in the long run.i have a 10" x 5" color piece that he did on my side. it was both on my ribs and my back, so i was wiggling around a lot. again, he was very patient and kept making comments like "where are you going!" as i slowly gravitated away. it was a very fair price, though we did do it in one sitting. he even gave me some skin numbing stuff for the more painful section of shading.i was booked within a week of my consultation both times. my consultation turned into my sitting the first time, and that was pretty cool.all of the people who work there are down-to-earth people who just want to give you a good tattoo. Read Less

How can these guys not have any reviews?  I LOVE Anthem tattoo.Me and my  friends have been inked by many of the guys here and have had amazing work done. They are super fun and awesome to help you get through the most painful parts. I only trust the guys in this buiding, Read Less

the best shop in alachua county hands down. completely custom. the guys and gals that work there are professional, friendly and extremely knowledgeable. They gave me a tattoo drawn just for me...no crappy flash from the eighties. they rule. Read Less