Tattooing is a process and so this review will contain several updates as I get my next piece done. That's right --- haven't started yet. But, even so, my experience with The Dead Presidents Lounge ha... Read More
Tattooing is a process and so this review will contain several updates as I get my next piece done. That's right --- haven't started yet. But, even so, my experience with The Dead Presidents Lounge has been phenomenal thus far and let me tell ya, the beginning counts!I've been conceptualizing an homage to my fav book for a while but since moving back to Bennington have been nervous about where to go. This is a larger, complex piece and I didn't want to risk going someplace without any knowledge. I went to the Talk section of Yelp and the majority of people directed me toward DPL. The website is the first thing they do right with extensive images showcasing each artist's work. Looking for a particular style? Want to get a sense of what someone's work looks like? This is a great place to start. I knew the basics of the aesthetic I wanted so I scrolled through over the course of a few weeks and finally decided that Krystal's work aligned with the vision. I've also never been tattooed by a woman.I emailed the shop and was able to set up a half hour consultation with Krystal. I drove over today and found parking nearby (the neighborhood is hopping but check the side streets if there is no parking in the log). I was a few minutes early and found a really nice, clean, quiet space. I know it shouldn't matter but god, the space is gorgeous. Jen had me sit and Krystal came out and greeted me shortly after. I had pictures and information (I've been thinking about this for a year) and she was great about educating me. I've had this idea of a comic book panel but, as she pointed it out, lining off a tattoo like that kind of conflicts with our anatomy. I am not, in any way, angular. I told her the elements I definitely want: a boy, a fire hydrant, a tin can, an ailanthus tree, text and she took notes and asked questions. It was quick but I felt like she was already getting a vision. She had an idea about the angle of the image and I was like, "So I thought maybe like straight on with him like this," and she seemed to really like that idea. I liked that she and I were very balanced in our ideas and I think she is going to bring things to the tattoo that need to be there that I haven't considered.We set up the first session for late July. I know that some people will say, "It's MAY!" but believe me, you want an artist that is so in demand you have to book months out. Shows the caliber of their work. I'll update with images and notes on the experience after my next visit. Looking forward to seeing this tattoo come to life!They take a deposit that is non-refundable but is transferable if you have to move your appointment. Cash only but there are ATMs nearby. Read Less