East Providence Tattoo Artists Say Your Grandfather's Ink is Cool Again

Remember that old Sailor Jerry tattoo that your grandfather used to hide under a shirt sleeve? Well, it's now in vogue.

According to tattoo artists at East Providence Tattoo, the more "traditional" tats are making a comeback, with a bit more polish.

"The shading is more fine," manager Erica Smith said, "There's a specific look to it."

And other more modern stylings haven't left the scene yet, like tribal marking, though some artists would like its heyday to come.

"Some people just want tribal," said owner Jesus Rios who opened his Pawtucket Avenue shop next to a lawyer's office.

Ink isn't limited to men. The most popular tattoos for women are stars, swirls and filigree type designs. Many ladies like to scribe their rib cages. 

Tattoos are an art medium, like any other, say staff members who all have connections to the art world. Skin is their canvas - only the room for error is nil. 

"You develop a bond...You're permanently changing someone's body," Rios said.

The entrepreneur originally wanted to study animation. He began the trade once he was contacted by a tattoo artist who saw a sketch. For Smith, she began tattooing after studying photography in Colorado. Staffer Walter Canavan is an accomplished painter. His work is shown in Providence showings.

Clients from the region come down to the Pawtucket Avenue shop nestled next to a lawyer's office. Brockton, MA resident Marc Deneus finished up his dragon tattoo at the shop last week. He was referred by a friend.

"It's all word of mouth," he said.