I came here after seeing work that my sister had gotten done and after hearing her speak so highly of the place. I decided to go with the same artist (Mark) because he appreciates nerdy stuff like my sis and I. Everyone throughout the entire experiece was very friendly and VERY helpful. I did not feel rushed to make any decisions and everyone was eager to help me with any questions I had. The studio its self is very clean and well set up for the comfort of each customer getting inked. The prices may seem kind of high at first, but the quality of work along with the atmosphere made it so I was truly getting what I paid for. 10/10 will get inked here again! Read Less

So how do you give a well respected studio a good review but still have a bad experience? I went into Studio Evolve, after checking out their website and their artists portfolios, with two pictures for tattooing. One was a Navy ship and the other was a picture of a skull and fire tattoo (its a picture of a tattoo that I got from the internet) that I wanted. This was set to be designed into a full SOCK on my right leg. I knew who I wanted to work with prior to going in and got to talk to him that day. I showed him the pictures, while he was in the middle of a tattoo, and he was totally SUPER cool, chill and said he could do it/wanted to do it. I appreciated the fact that while he was working, he was helping me-that meant a lot to me bc he didn't have to do that. I did all the paper work, paid the deposit and communication from him to me was GREAT throughout. I was super excited to get this tattoo started (not my first tattoo btw). When I went in on 15 FEB, the design I was shown for the skull and fire was no where near what the picture I gave him was (the ship portion had minor changes but was great). What was drawn up for the skull and fire was  cool, but not at all what I wanted from the picture I gave them (and I even made sure to put all the information on the paperwork I had to fill out). We talked a few times about it, and the artist I had (leaving his name out of this bc he was totally cool/chill/great dude and I don't want people reading this to get the wrong idea) said he didn't want to "steal/plagarize" someone else's work and that he was uncomfortable doing the design I wanted. I found this odd as he had the pictures for a few weeks prior to my apt. But, I respected his opinion as he is an artist (and from the things I saw online, a pretty dang good one). While I was willing to change some things, his design was different from what I wanted, and I told him I was pretty set on the picture I gave him (I appreciate artistic interpretation and leeway, but this his design was way different). So, he made a comment to me while upstairs, "hey lets go downstairs and see what we can do." Keep in mind I was supposed to get started on the tattoo that day. As we walked by the front desk he turned around, said "hey I don't think im gonna be able to do that for you as what you want is too close (to stealing the artistry) and then he told the lady at the front desk to either give me my deposit back or help me find another artist. They recommended another artist for me, but I respectfully declined as I was a bit pissed off. He told me he appreciated me being totally up front and honest, and that he just wasn't going to be able to do the tattoo for me (the way I wanted it like the picture). I definitely didn't want to come across as "that customer" and totally appreciated his delivery method but was in awe that this just happened. We agreed with each other that what we wanted to do was not in the others "vision" and agreed to part ways. While I can say I am not happy and totally bummed that I am not getting that tattoo and have to find another artist (I would still love for him to do it-but in the design I want done), I would still give Studio Evolve 5 stars because of the atmosphere, the people were super cool and helpful, and the communication I had with my artist was fantastic. The place has a kick ass vibe to it; you feel it when you walk in the door.So...how do you give a shop a good review but have a bad experience? Like this. Read Less

Have gotten several tattoos over the past few years in all different parts of the country, and i gotta say Studio Evolve is one of the coolest shops I've been in.a Super chill and clean environment! My artist Mondo did an awesome job with tying my half sleeve into what i had previously done by another artist. Extremely satisfied and would highly recommend this shop for your tattoo! Read Less

Great service!Mondo gave me my first tattoo and it came out great! He told my his minimum was 120 and in the end he lowered it 100 and it came out just how I wanted. Super relaxed environment, and lots of different artist! Definitely would recommend Read Less

The shop was nice but I left feeling disrespected . My tattoo artist James was helpful in making my idea come together BUT he had no respect for my time whatsoever . I arrived around 1:30 (he wasn't tattooing anyone else) and by 3:00 I finally left because he still didn't start mine : It took him all of 7 mins to help me make my mind up and the rest of the time i spent just sitting around waiting and waiting for what i still don't know. . I know I'm impatient so maybe its my fault for not waiting around some more to get it but my time is valuable just like his.  If ima pay 150/hr I expect quality service or at least a heads up "like hey I'm busy right now can you wait for an hour or come back " let me decide if I wanna Waste my free time before work . Read Less

Great service as always.  Abby gave me a mermaid piece on my leg that I loved.  Abby was very responsive  and detailed about the process through text months before Our appointment.  I was running late due to traffic and she was very understanding.  She made sure that I was comfortable with the artwork and that I was happy.  The session was long, but Abby was attentive to the area she was working on and gave me a few breaks.  I love Studio Evolve, since finding me 2 years ago, I only go to them.  The best tattoo artist are at Studio Evolve.  Check them out!!! Read Less

It was meant to be. Jay demonstrated total professionalism and was very patient with me. At my initial visit I was unsure about the design I agreed on, but upon return we nailed the design for the tattoo I wanted and he rocked it out! I will be back for more work. What a wonderful experience it is to have worked with Jay Vagabond! Read Less

This place is very nicely decorated with beautiful art amd is very clean. The receptionists are super nice and helpful. My appointment was SUPPOSED to last from 3:00 to 9:00. My artist arrived almost an HOUR late and didn’t even apologize for it. When I met my artist Lucy Lou, she seemed nice. She was helping me with a cover up. She used another drawing of hers that another client had wanted, which was okay I guess. Didn’t offer to draw a new one up for me. When she drew the outline on me, she wasn’t really starting a conversation or trying to be friendly. She seemed fake. Like fake nice. Fake smile. That whole vibe. So she starts the outline of my tattoo and turns up her music. Silence. And clearly, outlines hurt like a mother. And after an hour of me being in pain WITHOUT me telling her to stop, she stops tattooing me. She says, “Okay I think we’re going to stop” Doesn’t give me a reason, nothing. MIND YOU, IT WAS MY FREAKING BIRTHDAY. She didn’t try giving me a break, she didn’t try to calm me down or make me more comfortable, she had HORRIBLE customer service. I have NEVER been so upset when getting a tattoo. And honestly I hope this post goes viral because I don’t want ANYONE having this same experience. So rude and not friendly at all. Didn’t even apologize for not being able to finish. Lucy Lou is fake and provides mediocre customer service. You have lost my business and lost my interest. Read Less

I got my first tattoo at Studio Evolve and I have come back for two more since then. The front desk staff is friendly and the tattoo artists take the time to make sure you get exactly what you want. They produce high quality art work and I would recommend Studio Evolve to anyone looking to get a tattoo in this area. Read Less

FYI - I do not give 5 stars easily (and this was my first tattoo ever). The establishment is inviting, clean, and professional. The staff was friendly and welcoming. My artist was beyond exceptional, she was attentive to my design and creatively made it fit well on the location by adjusting size. We even had to reschedule to another day so she could redraw the graphic to fit better in the location. The tattoo itself was beyond expectations with solid line work, shading, and more. She even offered a free one-time touch up if needed. They do charge 3% for credit cards if you do not want to pay cash. Read Less

Ten years ago I got a tattoo that I was embarrassed about and finally decided to do something about it, so I went to Studio Evolve. Everyone was super helpful and friendly my first time there and after looking at everyones portfolio I decided to meet with Flaco Martinez for a consultation. He was just the kind of person I was looking to transform my terrible tattoo  into something I can finally be proud of. Read Less

Tattoo artist was very kind and made time to have my tattoo done on a tight schedule. Front desk was very helpful and answered all of my questions. Will definitely be coming back here for more tattoos and touch ups. Highly reccommend! Read Less

The staff is very friendly and they listen to exactly what you want. The shop is very clean and I was mesmerized by all the artwork that was displayed in the hallway. I felt really comfortable because they made you feel like you were very welcome! The artists are also amazing! My brother and I got tattoos from Mark. Definitely recommend this shop! Read Less

The front desk was extremely helpful! I wanted a couple small peonies behind my right ear and Brigette helped me chose an artist. Nikki is really laid back and skilled. I love my tattoo. Thank you, Nikki! Read Less

I have and am in the process of getting a tattoo at Studio Evolve. Great place! The staff is knowledgeable and experienced. The artists here are more concerned about you getting the best tattoo you can and having a great experience than they are with making a buck off of you. I have and will continue to recommend this place to people. Keep up the great work! Read Less

I was referred to James by my cousin. My cousin trusted him to do his full arm and leg work so I took his advise and brought my idea to James. He made it happen. We started out with an intricate design that I had brought to multiple artists who all said it couldn't be done. I explained what I wanted and the reason behind it. James was able to fill the gaps With his years of experience for a finished piece that turned out better than I could have imagined. The studio is extreamly clean, organized and welcoming. I'll be back Thank you Studio Evolve!! Read Less

Canada is AMAZING!!!  Not only is she a great artist who loves her job and cares about each client she is professional!  She went out of her way to make me feel comfortable and took her time to make my ink perfect.  I will be back for more! Read Less

Studio Evolve is a fantastic studio! I came on the recommendation of a friend and was not disappointed. From first setting up the appointment with sweet Bridget to the actual day with, everything was well explained and very professional. Mike Boone was my artist and he was very patient and kind. He executed the design perfectly. This was my first tattoo in years and I already want to come back! Read Less

I had Mark Wroblewski do a simple but solid piece on my wrist. He took his time getting it set up and was very professional. I also was able to email him the day before and discuss what I was looking for. This tattoo was in honor of my brother, who recently passed away. He was very open to listening to what I was looking for. He also explained why some things I had in mind wouldn't work where and how I wanted it exactly, but he was able to come up with a great design that really honors my brother and still went with the design that I had in mind. He was very professional and again, I really appreciated him taking his time to get my tattoo placement just right. I am planning my next one and will most certainly use him again. Read Less

I was looking for a good, professional tattoo place while I was visit form L.A... came across this one and was pleasantly surprised. Great customer service. Our tattoo artist James did an amazing job VERY clean lines.  Defiantly would recommend this place to any one wanting a great tattoo. Read Less

My tattoo artist Marshall Sinclair was just about to begin his work when the owner of Studio Evolve came in his room and yelled, "We need to talk!". He kicked out Marshall from the studio because he put in his two weeks. The owner had Marshall and I packing up Marshall's belongings in the rain. The owner has no respect for his clients or employees. Don't go here. Read Less

Great shop! James was great! I love the new tattoos ! The shop is in a great location and parking was easy. James was very professional and clean. Light handed. Tattoos cane out exactly how we expected. Read Less

Studio Evolve is hands down one of the best shops I've ever been to. As soon as you walk into the door the receptionists are so welcoming. The shop itself is super clean and very well decorated. All the staff that I've met have been super friendly with insane talent. I would definitely suggest getting tattooed here! Read Less

I love Studio Evolve! The atmosphere is welcoming and the customer service is great. Many of the artists work is displayed on the walls and it all is awesome! Taylor Morrison is my Tattoo Artist; he and the staff were willing to work with me via email to offer consultation because I wasn't local to the Va Beach area. This was a huge travel timesaver. I have had the best experience with Studio Evolve. You will not be disappointed; I recommend them without hesitation. Read Less

I made an appointment with 2 artists back in March 2017 for September 2017 and was booked all the way out to March of 2018 and secured my spot with a deposit.  Neither artist was able to keep 3 appointments and I had to wait almost 2 weeks to get back a $300 deposit. I emailed the shop asking to speak to the owner and was never contacted. Read Less

The studio has a really unique set up I love it ! I have been getting my half sleeve done by Danny since he was at other shops and I followed him to Studio evolve because I love his work. I would recommend this place to anyone who is considering getting a tattoo . Super fun atmosphere, great artist and cozy vibe . Read Less

This was my first time at Studio Evolve but it most certainly won't be my last. Not only was the studio impeccably clean and professional, but everyone on staff was competent and incredibly inviting. I was there for a total of four hours and in that time had one of the best tattooing experiences - I had the opportunity to meet other artists aside from the one I made my appointment with and also had the chance to see their artwork come to life. Can't wait to come back for more additions! Read Less

Many fantastic, original artists work out of this studio resulting in a huge array of styles from, classic to contemporary and from cute to bad ass. The friendly and knowledgeable staff add to the professionalism of the artists making this studio, hands down, the best place to get a tattoo in Virginia Beach and beyond. (I drove from Alabama to get tattooed here.) I'll definitely be returning for more work. Read Less

My tattoo artist Marshall was awesome from start to finish. I came for my first tattoo and it was a large piece for starters, but he gave me the confidence to get'er done. A straight 6 hours a bit sore but it was a great experience and very grateful for the journey. I never thought I'd be saying this but already looking forward to my next tattoo this summer. Read Less

Great staff, clean facility, very professional and helpful. My artist, Mattlock, has been doing my sleeve and is always ready with fresh ideas (that blow my mind) and his skills are the best in the business as far as I'm concerned. Can't go wrong with this studio! Read Less

Hands down, best place to get a tattoo in VA Beach as well as the hampton foads area. All artist are amazing and the shop holds it reputation. Great quality work of art ! Clean facility from the front desk, the bathrooms to every artist's work room. Highly recommend FLACO MARTINEZ. Great dude, awesome person. Read Less

Staff was very helpful. Got a chest piece done by Keith. He did an amazing job. Gave him my idea and the outcome was amazing, I couldn't be more satisfied with how the tattoo came out. Very friendly and professional. Definitely going back to Studio Evolve and Keith for more tattoos in the near future. Read Less

Studio Evolve is amazing! Great people and atmosphere all around. I got my work done by Keith Maynard. Keith puts a lot of effort into making the whole process a great experience, and really focuses on the work he puts out. His work is impeccable, to go along with a great personality! Always look forward to sitting in his chair. Highly highly recommend Keith and Studio Evolve no matter if it's your first tattoo or one of many. Read Less

Flaco Martinez is amazing. Flaco was great at building on my idea and worked with me on positioning. He has a great bed aide manner that would put a first timer at ease as well as someone who has been inked before into a fantastic piece of body art.The location was clean and sanitary, he wore gloves and opened fresh needles in front of me before starting.  I felt very  at ease and if I am ever in the Virginia Beach area I would have Flaco ink me up again.Strongly recommend STUDIO EVOLVE & FLACO MARTINEZ Read Less

Lalalaove this place! LUCY LOU is incredible, she did my half sleeve which was drawn entirely from her artistic hands and mind, and she tweeked to perfection to exactly what I wanted. I can't wait to get more work done by her. Read Less

I got a tattoo today from Flaco Martinez. So did my cousin. Her tattoo was outstanding. And mine I couldn't be happier with. The first drawing he showed me was not quite what I had in mind, however we discussed it and he came back with artwork that was almost exactly what I had envisioned. And the final work is perfect. He is personable, and friendly as well as professional. Additionally his (forgive me if I don't know the proper terminology) sanitation and safety procedures were impeccable. He also personally guaranteed all his work and assured me if there was any issues, he would address them.  His aftercare instructions were clear, and although in depth, I feel comfortable being able to follow them without worry.  The staff at the front desk offered to print the aftercare instructions for me as well. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend studio evolve if you're looking to get a tattoo in the Virginia beach area.  If I had to find something to complain about, it would be that it took a phone call from me to get them to respond to my initial email inquiring about getting a tattoo there, but once I got the ball rolling everything went smoothly.Fast forward 3 days laterI'll bore you now with some background info. I have one other tattoo that I got on my arm about 17 years ago. The person who did it was not experienced but did a good job with the art. Her skill as an artist was outstanding but her skill as a tattooer I now know was not where it needed to be. I don't know the technical stuff but by now my first tat was covered in scabs, but Flaco, a consummate professional, applied my tattoo and there is no scabbing at all. I can tell it will heal quickly, and correctly. Bravo sir. All around it was a great experience. Read Less

If you don't go here you are an idiot! This was hands down my best tattoo experience ever! I got a consultation and booked an spot the same day for 2 weeks out with Nikki. They called to even remind me of my tattoo Appointment  which I have never had! I went in for my first session which was only supposed to be 4 hours. Nikki had no problem continuing for as long as I could sit! Which is perfect because I know a lot of places cutt off exactly at the end of the appointment. Whether they have more clients or not. She stayed in the shop tattooing past close to make sure we got the outline done! Which to me shows great care for the customer and the tattoo. I loved that she took her time to make sure every line was    Perfect! To top it off she had the lightest tattooing hand I have ever had! She is perfect! You must ask for her!!! Read Less

Really amazing artists here and a very chill environment. I found my artist Vall there and I absolutely love his work. I recommend him to all off my coworkers and friends. There is a deposit but, it goes towards your tattoo. Very clean, very professiona. Read Less

I originally checked this shop out because the Yelp reviews were great. The shop, itself, was a little hard to find, but in a good way... like it's a well kept secret, or something. I went with John Vall as my artist, based on his style and cover-up skills, and let me just say he totally lived up to the hype! Vall was super professional and he patiently helped me figure out a design that would look cool and still work as a cover up. The tattoo came out better than I could have ever imagined and it's easily the best tattoo I have now. Trust, I'll be back in there, as soon as possible, to give them more of my monies! Read Less

This is the best tattoo shop I've visited. Everyone is friendly and very welcoming. I would recommend this place to everyone.  Andy Chambers covered up two tattoos into one and he is truly an amazing artist! Read Less

I went to Abby for a tribute tattoo across my chest and she took my idea and made it even more beautiful than I could've envisioned. It's truly stunning. The staff was awesome and so much fun and the studio was well lit, immaculate, and comfortable. I get compliments on my tattoo daily. She is really an amazing artist. Read Less

I came here July of 2012, and I have to say I've been looking for any excuse to go back.  The place is super clean, the atmosphere is very laid back, there's music playing while you are getting your tattoo done...it was an excellent experience.  And I've been to different places in NY, Miami, and NJ.  This is by far my favorite.  They only do custom tattoos which is awesome.  If you are looking for a place where you pick a generic tattoo from a wall, this is not it. Read Less

Gabe is a super nice guy and an AMAZING tattoo artist. He is very selective about the artists who work at his shop, so if you choose someone here, you are guaranteed to get high quality work. They also have featured artists showing their pieces from the community, too, so go there to check out some fresh art! The studio is beautifully decorated, and very upscale. These artists are worth every penny! Read Less

I must say, at first I was so excited to work with Tanane Whitfield as he does some great work - but I must say I was so disappointed in his attitude and personality towards me and the design he came up with for my BACK PIECE - we talked about a design - and it was going to be placed on my back - i was in love with the design and when I came in the next day to get tattooed - none of the ideas we talked about were part of the tattoo!!! When I asked him why they werent  drawn in - he said he didn't have the time! If there was no time I don't understand why adding a bonsai tree was even brought up by him! - he also texted me the night before the tattoo to ask 'HOW FAR WOULD YOU WANT TO GO WITH THIS TATTOO?' He wanted to bring this back piece down onto the back of my thighs.... Hahaha - imagine a small thigh piece of a lucky cat - being blown up to fit my entire back with little details and no real reason why it had to be SO BIG AND LAME!!! I told him my husband did not like the idea of having the tattoo down on my ass - my husband LOVES my ass and didnt think this tattoo would be flattering coming halfway down my ass - and let me tell you... It was not flattering! - my husband was all in all pissed because he didnt change the size. He put the stencil down my ass and when we talked about it - basically tanane said he couldn't make it smaller cause he would jeopardize' the design. So we ended up walking out/getting kicked out by his smart ass. The next thing i know he is blasting up instagram with some crazy talk about me being a back seat driver and bringing someone with me who was gonna cry and moan about the size and placement. How he handled the situation with me was so completely embarrassing and how he acted on instagram was absolutely disrespectful. Most of my friends are tattoo artists in other states and a good buddy of mine who recommended me to him was also pissed off and thought his comments on IG were disrespectful as well. He lost some fans for that one and some good business from me.. Then there was rumors about the reason my husband was pissed was because he was touching my ass!? Get the hell out of here, I do boudoir pin ups, my husband is a confident man. It's being disrespectful and not listening to your customers thats the problem. This place obviously loves their gossip - i wish i had a better experience. Ill stick to my other artists :))))) . Read Less

This is one of the best, brightest and cleanest studios.  I've been to studios here in VB and in Kansas.  This was my fav. Last tattoo was by Abigail.  Great work, nice people. One of the things that will make me walk out of a tattoo shop faster than anything is not the price, it's they way I'm treated.  This place treats you like you want to be treated.  They're friendly and interested in you. I've walked out of other studios because the staff act like asses or like you aren't worth their time. If I'm paying you hundreds to be a walking canvas and potential billboard, id hope you would smile at me or greet me as an equal..studio evolve did..My last tattoo at Studio Evolve was about 5 hours and was amazing. I can't wait for my  next one. Oh and I was a walk in too! Read Less

I will have to tell you that I am very skeptical about going to any new places, especially ones that my friends refer me to. Randy Templin is an awesome artist. I had an idea of a tribute to my Grandfather who has been an inspiration to my family for all these years. Randy's drawing was everything that I could have imagined. I have went to other tattoo places around Hampton Roads but Studio Evolve has really exceeded my expectations. If you are looking for the overall package I would love to recommend this place. Just look at their website studioevolvetattoo.com Read Less

This is by far the nicest studio I've ever been to, Gabe and his crew are doing it right!Studio Evolve is the cleanest, coolest studio I've ever seen. Regardless of whether you are tattoo'd from head to toe or just looking for that one special piece of art, Everyone at Studio Evolve is nice, professional and polite, they offered me a drink as soon as I walked in for my appt. offed to pick up lunch for me while I was getting my work done and they talk to you like you are an old friend (Try getting any of that at ANY other studio around Tidewater!)I've got 2 tattoo's by Gabe, I couldnt imagine going anywhere else and looking forward to several more by Gabe Cece.He plays some awesome music while working his magic too!I highly recommend Studio Evolve to anyone looking to get their tattoo done right. Read Less