Traditional Tattoo Artist Keeps the Old School Alive in San Diego
San Diego has a long history when it comes to traditional "old school" tattooing. Dating back to the 1950s and 60s, the city became a hub for servicemen getting inked in the iconic American traditional style. Bold black lines, bright colors, and motifs like anchors, roses, and panthers defined this classic look.
As a tattoo artist who has called San Diego home since 2003, I'm passionate about keeping the city's traditional tattoo heritage alive. Most recently, I had the honor of inking an American traditional backpiece featuring an eagle and tiger in harmony. For my client, this piece represented the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. The regal eagle symbolizes courage and vision, while the fierce tiger is associated with inner strength and vitality.
Over the 15+ years I've been tattooing in San Diego, I've focused on mastering the American traditional style. The bold black outlines provide definition, allowing the design to be easily readable even decades later. Vibrant colors like red, green, yellow, and blue create eye-catching images. Every piece tells a story, with motifs that celebrate U.S. history and culture.
Whether inking clipper ships, pin-up girls, or working-class heroes, I put care into translating my client's vision into a cohesive traditional tattoo they'll wear proudly. I start by consulting with each client one-on-one to understand their inspiration and interests. From there, I hand draw custom sketches that capture the spirit of the American traditional aesthetic.
The tattoo process itself is careful and meticulous. I only use sterile needles and top-quality inks for crisp, lasting results. While creating a tattoo does involve some pain and discomfort, my goal is making clients feel as at ease as possible. I provide guidance on proper aftercare so each piece heals beautifully.
For those interested in getting their own traditional tattoo here in San Diego, choose an artist who has mastery of this classic style. Look through portfolios for examples of clean line-work, bright colors, and iconic flash designs. Be open about your ideas during the consultation, and select a placement that best suits the tattoo size and your lifestyle.
If you're ready to celebrate your own story through American traditional body art, I invite you to book a consultation. Let's create a bold, meaningful tattoo you can wear with pride for years to come. The tradition lives on in San Diego thanks to passionate artists like myself, and clients with an appreciation for this nostalgic style.