Walking into a tattoo shop can be stressful. Whether it's your first piece or your tenth, there is a certain amount of anxious excitement that can accompany the experience. This makes it essential tha... Read More
Walking into a tattoo shop can be stressful. Whether it's your first piece or your tenth, there is a certain amount of anxious excitement that can accompany the experience. This makes it essential that you choose a shop that can properly harness those feelings and transform them into something beautiful. Old Soul Tattoo does just that.I came to the shop during their grand opening festivities. Upon walking in the door, I was met with smiling faces, handshakes, and a rather bright energy. I chose to work with Tomas Garcia, an artist that I believe is the best in the business right now. Although I didn't have an appointment, Tomas and the crew worked to get me settled and ready to go. The new shop is really something to behold. Outside of a pleasant waiting area, the work-space is wide open, with artists working near, not close to, one another. I feel that this adds to the community feeling that runs wildly through the shop. Aesthetically, Old Soul finds the proper balance between a traditional tattoo shop and an art gallery. For those that have an affinity for outsider art, you'll want to take some time and explore everything on the walls, as they are adorned with original paintings from artists throughout the country and beyond. Working with Tomas was incredible. We were able to hold a dialogue while he worked on me, discussing music, art, and the craft of tattooing. He offered some insight into the style that he has developed through decades of refinement. Tomas worked efficiently and was accommodating when I needed to stretch or change position. As you'll see in the picture accompanying this post, Tomas is a master of detail and allows himself the proper amount of time ensure that the collaborative vision is realized. Coming to Old Soul was a bit of a pilgrimage for me. Having the opportunity to work with an artist that I respect and at a shop where inclusion is paramount was really wonderful. I'm already planning a second trip to continue working with Tomas and am excited to see where this journey takes us. Read Less