gogue

Lots going on...

2012-01-23T23:23:00.000-08:00

I have been pretty quiet since august 2011. Had a few trips out of the country, UK, Rome, Japan... With the holidays and the new shop plans I have literally been absent from the world wide web aside from an occasional instagram pic or my daughters posting merchandise on or web site. I want to say thank you to everyone that chose my art in any form over the holidays and recent months. I am grateful and honored every time an order comes through for a print, shirt, poster, book, dvd... I know there are millions of products out there for people to spend their hard earned money on. I also know that the world is full of amazing artists and all kinds of talent so any time mine is chosen by anyone, it’s an incredible honor.

I also need to apologize to a few out there whose orders came late, damaged or otherwise ended up as an unpleasant experience. I am truly sorry. When I started selling things other than tattoos I didn’t realize how many aspects there are that can go wrong. Orders getting missed, lost, etc. Thank you all for your patience.

I am partnering with Off the Map Tattoo, Easthampton MA over the next couple months to become the pacific northwest’s Off the Map Tattoo Studio. We have a great lineup of artists scheduled and I’m so stoked to bring artists to our area from all over. My current co-tattooers, Mike and Jen Godfrey are planning on relocating to Huntington Beach CA soon and I was going to move to a private studio until I went to Rome for the Worldwide Tattoo Conference and talked to Gabe Ripley from Off the Map. I have heard crazy rumors that I have stopped tattooing, I’m moving, I’m only painting... None of which are true. I love tattooing, and I will tattoo as long as I can. I have no plans of moving, retiring or anything of the sort.

Jen Godfrey is still tattooing at the studio, Mike Godfrey is building machines, and tattooing by appointment at the studio and also in southern California. We also have Minneapolis visiting atist, Shawn Hebrank here for the next couple months. He is available for walk ins and by appointment through March.

Our grand opening party is planned for the first friday in March. Make sure to come by for that. I will be on the road quite a bit this spring. Milan in February, Japan in March and Australia in april.

I just want to let you all in on what’s going on. I’m hoping and planning on a good year in 2012.

OFF THE MAP NORTHWEST

2012-01-03T10:09:00.000-08:00

112 Cottage Street

Easthampton, MA 01027

413-527-6574

OfftheMapTattoo.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Off the Map Tattoo Expanding to Grants Pass, Oregon

Off the Map Tattoo and Jeff Gogue will be joining forces to open a second location in Grants Pass, Oregon. Jeff Gogue will continue to tattoo and lead workshops as the head resident tattoo artist, but in March of 2012 the location will reopen as a rebranded Off the Map Tattoo. Off the Map Tattoo Grants Pass will mirror the original studio and main office in Easthampton, Massachusetts. This will include tattoo-savvy customer service, additional resident artists, and scheduled monthly guest artists - having many notables already setting dates. With Off the Map Tattoo handling the management of the studio, Jeff will be able to focus on what he loves the most: working hard to create and inspire around other like-minded artists.

Jeff Gogue started tattooing in 1999 and has not looked back since. Jeff is now being recognized with worldwide acclaim and shares his techniques in tattooing and painting through various seminars and instructional DVDs. Jeff continually strives for excellences in every venture that he pursues, and takes heed to the power of self-worth and one's duty to share whatever can be offered. “…..,” says Jeff about the partnership.

Off the Map Tattoo was established in 2005 with the goal of creating a professional, sterile, educational environment for artists and collectors alike. Now in its sixth year, Off the Map Tattoo is home to four full time resident artists and attracts forty plus guest artists from around the world annually, it is safe to say that that goal is being lived out. Also, Off the Map Tattoo hosts the Paradise Tattoo Gathering (TattooGathering.com), Paradise Artist Retreat (ParadiseArtistRetreat.com), and houses the offices of TattooNOW (TattooNOW.com).

All in all, with the combination of Off the Map Tattoo’s proven business plan and Jeff Gogue’s drive to create and facilitate inspiration, Off the Map Tattoo Grants Pass is the perfect match. Visit OfftheMapTattoo.com for daily news updates and GogueArt.com for Jeff Gogue’s portfolio.

Contact:

Mary Bowen – Studio Manager @ Off the Map Tattoo

HYPERLINK "mailto:Mary@TattooNOW.com"

(413) 527-6574

Rome.... after the conference...

2011-10-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

It’s 4 am on October 25th 2011. I’m in the airport in Rome and my body is tired. I just spent three days with a small group of friends speaking at a conference about staging a rebellion against mediocrity in our field; art and tattoos. I find myself saying it in separate terms though I don’t see the separation. Tattooing is a form of art of course, but the trade of tattooing has meandered through the avenues of the average and the common for most of it’s modern existence. Rome. What an appropriate place in the world to do such a thing. Surrounded by the epitome of high standards in art and dedication to one’s craft. As I walked through the streets; the humorous attempts by vendors to sell trinkets made in china, bobble headed pope statues, disco style hand held laser pointers, and plastic miniatures of the colosseum reminded me that the majority of the population remains in the realm of the average and the addicted to mediocrity. Graffiti and trash were everywhere obnoxiously stating that so many people consume and discard, rather than contribute and nurture.

I’m sitting here with a headache from the two hours sleep I struggled through since I haven’t been here long enough to get over the jet lag yet I’m heading back home already. I often find myself sort of reveling in being tired. In my case it’s more often the result of being somewhere in the world that most people would say is a trip of a lifetime. I find myself routinely resolving as the plane takes off; that if it goes down in flames, I am satisfied that I have had many many trips of a lifetime, and that my family and friends will know that I tried with all my heart, to live well, to experience more, and to inspire others to do the same.

My friend (Nick Baxter) was one of the other guest speakers this weekend. I have known him for years and worked alongside him often around the world. I had the privilege of attending his seminar and it is as the rumors have it; it is life changing. He is one of the few people I know that shares the the stage of the exceptional, intriguing and inspiring individuals among the masses. Alex Depase, of Italy also ignited a new drive in me to reach for higher ground personally, artistically, and professionally. I was honored to share the stage with Nick, Alex, the world class tattooer, Boris of Hungary and business leader Gabe Ripley of Tattoo Now and The Paradise tattoo gathering. This was an unprecedented event in the tattoo community. Not open to the public, or to people tattooing; it was a true conference for artists to be challenged to step up to the next level in many facets. I am honored and grateful to be one of the people who got to share my thoughts, perspective and insight, and I feel especially grateful for the immediate return of insight, inspiration, and education I received myself. If you get a chance to attend any event like this in the future, I suggest you do what it takes to make that a reality.

I put together a quick very candid video from the trip just as a small reminder for me. I'd like to share it with you.

http://youtu.be/jJwZRILJpr0

WORLDWIDE TATTOO CONFERENCE, ROME ITALY

2011-10-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

I'm leaving this evening to be one of the honored guest speakers at the first Worldwide Tattoo Conference, held in Rome this weekend http://www.worldwidetattooconference.com/HOME_ENG.html

My good friend Nick Baxter and I along with the amazing Alex De Pase, (Italy) Boris (Hungary) and Tattoo Now owner Gabe Ripley will be teaching and speaking for two days in one of the world's most incredible cities. I am honored and humbled to be chosen for this with such accomplished artists. Check out the website and let me know what you think about the concept of this kind of conference. They are considering the same conference, possibly in Chicago 2012. here's a couple pics of Nick and I painting a few months ago. We have the prints in house of the spark plug collaboration. I just need to get them to Nick for signing and numbering before they are released to you. Thank you all and wish me luck!

Tattoo Jam, Doncaster UK 2011

2011-08-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

I want to thank the staff of Tattoo Jam for their incredible hospitality and support at this year's show, especially Editor: Sion Smith, Events Manager Shelley Bond, and Managing Director Stuart Mears! You all are awesome and great to work with. The Venue was super cool, clean and easy to get around. the people attending and working were all cool, kind and great to meet and be around. I got to do a painting Demo with Jason Butcher, Lianne Moule, Jesse Smith, and Nikko Hurtado! Nikko and I painted from a live model, in front of hundreds of people sitting three feet behind us... nerve-racking! Jesse did an amazing monk painting! Jason did an awesome green skull and Lianne did a beautiful bird, (Didn't get photos) The paintings are being auctioned for charity through Skin Deep Magazine! Such and Honor. All the artists attending the show were inspiring and made me want to come home and work harder. I finally got to meet Chris Crooks in person and deliver his painting, he also purchased the colaboration I did with Jason Butcher. I had the privilege of winning "Best International Artist" which was so cool! Thank you all for the support! I got to tattoo some old friends, do a new piece and do a figure study along side my good friend Nikko the last night. Great time! Great show! Again, to the staff and help of Skin Deep, Tattoo Master, and Tattoo Jam.... Cheers! You guys rock!

p.s. Thanks for letting me be the "staff photographer" at the end;)

jeff

FUSION INK... Gogue Signature palette!!!!!!!

2011-07-26T21:47:00.000-07:00

http://www.fusiontattooink.com/

I had the incredible privilege of creating my own signature tattoo ink palette with Fusion's co-owner Adam Everett over the last two days. They are done, and on their way back to the production facility in Southern California to be introduced into the Fusion family! I got to do a quick 3 hour test tattoo on Adam himself and loved the way they worked. I designed them to work with the rest of the Fusion line but wanted to see them alone. A couple are made to transition from existing colors and to work as vibrant neutrals, so to speak. They are mature colors for a more earthy aspect to tattooing. I of course believe on striving for bright tattoos but those colors are already available and I often end up needing transition colors or earth tones to accentuate the bright ones I'm trying to get the viewer to focus on. I'm super stoked on these colors and also believe they will enhance any tattooer's existing palette and help in an efficient execution of any style of work you're going after.

click on any of the photos to see it bigger.

Here's the line up:

Midnight

Lotus

Super Red

Morning Shade

Chinook

Forest Green

Blackberry Porter

G.I. Green

http://www.fusiontattooink.com/

It cycles... it circles...

2011-07-15T20:30:00.000-07:00

I started tattooing in Aug. 1999. One of my first role models was a guy out of Grass Valley, CA. named Cory Norris. His work was great, and he was super cool. I used to take my portfolio to him as he was doing my left arm and get advise. I was just starting out and he would always be honest and make me want to try harder. He also always kept me humble and striving for integrity in my work. It's so crazy to me that twelve years later I would be interviewing him for the leading trade journal of the tattoo industry. Tattoo Artist Magazine (TAM) asked me to do this article two years ago and after some unfortunate roadblocks it's finally out. I am completely honored beyond the meaning of that word to have done this. Subscribe now to this publication, read it and send Cory an email. He's an incredible artist, friend and person.

Business of Painting DVD... People like it!

2011-06-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

SOAA is offering the DVDs for one more day until July 1st , 2011 with NO shipping charges in the US and only $10 international. They will still be available after this date but regular shipping charges will be incurred. Please lake advantage of the savings and buy a few for gifts for the aspiring artists in your life. Even if they don't oil paint. the marketing section on the video is insightful, informative, inspiring and funny.... you won't be disappointed....

http://soartacademy.com/store/

My 2 hour DVD on my oil painting process and marketing philosophies has been a fun successful project. People are painting more because of it and I can't think of a cooler influence to have on the people around me. MAKE ART!!!!! HERE ARE JUST A FEW OT THE BUSINESS OF PAINTING TESTIMONIALS:

Jeff Johnson, Newbury Park, California

Just got and watched the new dvd. Very nice ! Inspirational and informative . Thanks for passing it on!

Matthew Lukesh, Bloomingdale, New Jersey

Just watched the "Business" DVD. Not only is it inspirational, it's authentic Jeff. Anyone who's met the man has caught a glimpse of his passion. Anyone fortunate enough to paint alongside him (as I have) has shared his passion which envelops the room. The DVD brought me back to the workshop in Grant's Pass last year and pointed out everything I've unconsciously learned from Mr Gogue. Jeff-- thanks for being genuine. See ya in November.

George Labrada, Los Angeles, California man just finished watching the dvd. really inspirational and i still have some of your prints frmo when i got at the boise idaho tattoo expo like 5 years or 6 ago whenu shared a booth with nikko. thanks for the guidence......

Jamie Hearn, Arlington, Texas this truly is a very inspirational, and informative DVD. thank you for putting this out, i already feel like I've learned alot from it.

Derek Zielinski, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania I second that. I got my dvd yesterday and watched it immidiately. Thank you for the great motivation and insight Jeff.

Dris D wow im so excited for this, ordered mine to the uk so hv ta wait a lil longer, just watching the trailer made me drop everything and paint

Kerry Lawing, Charlotte, North CarolinaI just watched your DVD and I cant thank you enough for your willingness to share your passion in a way that teaches, inspires, and drives people all around the world! (I actually watched it twice) Your art has made an incredible impact in my life!!! Your book should be here soon as well!! Thank you Jeff!

Travis Diebolt, Olympia Washington Got it in the mail yesterday! Watched it last night, GREAT video!!! Thanks Jeff!

Chuey Art, Alberquerque, New Mexico The video is awesome! Your personality sticks out like a sore thumb which is great. Not to many artist have a personality. But everything in the video helped me understand oil painting a little better. One question, in order to get your paint transparent, do you have to buy it transparent? Or will mixing it down with the medium do the trick? Awesome video dude!! You should do a documentary film about the traveling, tattooing, and paintings you do.

Ryan Thompson, Tuckerton, New Jersey Just watched it yesterday. Great work. Thanks! Very inspiring!

Zack Wolf, Kettering, Ohio

Thank you very much for the DVD. It was very informative and showed how much work and building up it took to get there. Which helped me identify with my art career and where I want to be your truly a master thanks again.

Greg Merola, Waterbury, Connecticut

the new dvd is awesome!! it is very helpful and EXTREMELY inspiring!!

John Te,

just watched your buisness of painting dvd. not only are you a talented artist but a very philosophical and passionate person, which i think alot of artist lack these days. your speech at the end was moving,and i'm one of those people who was nervous to talk to you at the tat convention. lol by the way so what was that medium in the jar that made it dry faster and shiny. tnx

Rafa Garabal, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain I have it and yes, your words are really inspiring. When you tell how you started from zero, it´s something very very important for people like me, that are trying to find a way to start out. Thanks for that kind of things. I think you are not only a good painter/tattoo artist.. but also a good inspiration, telling that everything is possible with a good dose of effort.

Karin Janssen, Peoria, Illinois I also just got your DVD Jeff. Gave me direction as far as oil painting goes. I have all the stuff to paint but never knew anything about application. Very inspiring!!

Tim Hinton, Truro, Cornwall

I've just sat down and watched Jeff Gogue's business of painting DVD. Its quite hard to sum it up but i'll give it a shot, if one my art teachers had sat down and explained 1/2 of whats in this, 1/2 as well as this, my painting/drawing/tattooing would be in a different place now. Very inspirational and excellently worded. Really made me think about alot of my views of what I do. Everyone should own this!

Heather Long, Evansville, Indiana

Hello Jeff! I recently watched your Business of Painting DVD with my boyfriend. He is a huge fan of your work, and I am a new fan as well. I just wanted to tell you how inspiring your DVD was and how much great information it has for aspiring artists. It shows how hard you really have to work to get where you are at. I wanted to thank you because it really inspired me as well! I'm a business and spanish major who is surrounded by artists, so I have always felt that I don't have any talent for it. You really showed me that if I work really hard, I can get really good too, and I wanted to tell you thank you for that. I don't think I will make my life's work off of it, but you never know! You didn't start out thinking that either! At least now I have a different perception of art and don't feel so limited by my lack of talent for it. Keep up the great work, your art is fantastic!

Cool painting collaboration with UK tattooist, Jason Butcher

2011-06-19T22:01:00.000-07:00

I posted a quick painting tutorial on father's day from the painting workshop the week prior. As one of the demos for the three day workshop I asked attending artist Jason Butcher if I could reference one of his sketches for the class. Super fun to do. I've done it with two or three other people before and I love it! anyway... here's the link to my facebook page where you can check it out: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.176020355792079.44134.112639418796840

Make sure to click the "like" button to keep informed of other related things;)

Thanks,

jeff

in the works...

2011-05-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I want t give some sort of update on things in the works... I definitely feel like I have too much on my plate... but They are on it never the less. My new Instructional Painting DVD was just released May 10th. http://soartacademy.com/ The Business of Painting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysPMDLB4mTg&feature=player_embedded

I’m finishing up the first 200 Calvaria book sales and looking for a reasonable printer to get the remaining 300 done in soft cover at a more reasonable price like $60.

http://www.tattooartistmagazine.com/merch/books

The All for Japan donation project is going good. I Had some set backs as far as getting shirts and stuff going. Now, I have tons of shirts left and need to get them to people that still care about the devestation in Japan. I alos have a thousand posters I need to move and get the money to the Japanese Red cross. We raised over $2500 profit after all expences and have tons of shirts, posters and stickers in stock. can probably raise a few more thousand dollars if it all gets sold.

http://www.allforjapan.org/

I have a sweet show in the works for late summer. http://southernoregoncustomclassic.blogspot.com/ It’s a juried, Custom bicycle build off and art show: Southern Oregon Custom Classic, featuring Tom Strom: http://uptowntattoo.com/?page_id=187 and Christopher Gay: http://www.artcoreseattle.com/artists/christopher/

-Nick Baxter and friends, private oil painting workshop, (no spots available) July 12-14th, 2011

http://www.nickbaxter.com/

-Tattoo Jam, Doncaster Racecourse, United Kingdom, Aug 5-7, 2011

http://www.tattoojam.com/

-Seattle Tattoo Expo: Seattle WA. USA, Aug. 12-14, 2011

http://www.seattletattooexpo.com/

-Paradise Tattoo Gathering, Jiminy Peak MA, USA Sept. 15-18, 2011

http://www.tattoogathering.com/

-London Tattoo Convention, United Kingdom Sept. 23-25, 2011

http://www.thelondontattooconvention.com/?section=home

-World wide Tattoo Conference; Rome Italy October 22-23, 2011

http://www.worldwidetattooconference.com/

All shows are totally booked for tattoos, please don't email for appointments. They are all booked.

So... that's some of what's happening... There's more but it's too much to list. these are some things to check out and let me know what you think? Thanks for all the support. I'll be trying to update this blog more often. seems like facebook is slowly sinking... I'll be mostly posting things here.

Thanks again,

jeff gogue

finishing stuff up....

2011-05-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

click on the images below to see larger views.

Yokohama and youtube...

2011-04-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

Attached image is just outside my door on the way to the studio.

I’m here in Yokohama, Japan for the next week. I had this trip planned for the last six months. Of course I’m glad I came but considering the recent events here, the mood is much more quiet. It's strange to walk by the buildings with cracks and fallen bricks and tiles. some places aren’t open, there are fewer people out and about. I know that even though there are many people that have survived the disasters here, everyone is affected and know people that have lost loved ones or they are still missing. It’s hard to understand or empathize. After talking with Shige, I am very glad I came since so many out of town and out of country clients of his have canceled due to fear and concern. I know business, and you miss a few days of income, it’s easy to get behind. My clients here are on more limited budgets as well. I figure it will all come out in the long run. I’m taking the extra time here to talk more and try and understand more, learning. I’m not making videos this time mostly because my camera isn’t working. If I can figure it out, I will try, but the my mood is more quiet and I’m just taking it in. I had a tattoo session the first full day I arrived here, there was even an aftershock small earthquake during it. The studio is six stories up and it just felt like someone was moving the table I was laying on. As i looked up to see the water dispenser sloshing around a bit. I was told there have been hundreds of these. Anyway, I and am working on some existing pieces yesterday and today. Tomorrow I hope to visit the Tokyo museum with Shige.

Shige’s “HOPE” for japan shirts are due to arrive the day I leave. If they get here in time, I’ll try and bring some home for people, but It’s looking like most will have to order them from Yellowblaze.

On a lighter note, I got to review my new oil painting DVD being put out by Southern Oregon Art Academy. It should be available in a couple weeks. I watched the final cut on my trip here and am super stoked about it. It was edited and produced by Ryan Moon, SOAA instructor. It has tons on great information and is super inspiring to step things up and take the plunge into art as a means of life. I’m glad they didn’t tell me they were making a dvd of the workshop since it left me very honest and uninhibited. there are a couple stories in it that are worth twice the asking price. I’m hoping to sell tons of these since they will be very reasonable and half of all the proceeds are going directly to SOAA which will further the education of many aspiring artists. I love being able to give something back! I will post them as soon as they are available. No pre sales on this one. Each time I do that, pay pal has a fit and holds all the money for months. so as soon as they are in my hands I will let you all know and you can get your copy within a day or two of them being posted. The trailer says it will be available in Feb. of 2011... but better late than never;) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjM9XJubfg8

To all of you who care enough to read these things from me, ( I know there are literally millions more entertaining ways to spend your time, like you-tubing crazy cat videos) I want to tell you "thank you" It's way hard to keep up with the three trillion other people out there screaming for your attention; but from the bottom of my heart... Thanks.

jeff

all for japan 3/28/11

2011-03-28T08:50:00.000-07:00

With everything going on these days it’s hard to keep up on all the issues. It is in fact, close to impossible. I try to take things as they come and do what I can when I can. I love being productive and moving forward so I work a lot, tattooing because I love it and that’s how I provide for my family which I love very much. I also paint as much as I can because it is who I am. I am an artist; the whole time.

The recent disasters in Japan have hit very close to my heart and soul. I have worked hard for the last 12 years to earn the privilege of working in japan. Tattooing, learning, and getting my entire backside tattooed by Shige of Yellowblaze, Yokohama. To see the people of Japan hurting and enduring the painful loss of lives, over 10,100 and 17,000 more people missing is very difficult to fully comprehend. I know people all over the world are affected by this and are contributing to some sort of relief though nothing will truly relieve what has happened. I want to thank those of you who do care, who do contribute, and who do spread the word of efforts to help. I personally know so many people who are doing what they can. Donating in all sorts of ways. We have a short attention span these days and it’s so easy to think since something happened two or three weeks ago, “they” probably have things all figured out. I don’t think this is true. People are still recovering from Hurricane Katrina which happened six years ago. Also The 7.0 earthquake in Haiti which was over a year ago, and people are still in camps made of tents and boxes. Japan will be in recovery for a long time, and I believe there will be a need to contribute for a long time.

Personally, I don’t care how people help. you can text a donation with your cell phone, you can go to your bank and donate to relief funds, you can bake cookies, wash cars or any other way possible to give and raise awareness. I just ask that you try to help. I’m not usually much of an activist, but like I said, Japan holds a very special place in my heart.

I want to thank Michelle Gilkey, (All For Japan project manager) for the help and the origami from the local grower’s market here in Grants Pass. a great reminder that we all have something to give.

thank you,

jeff

http://www.allforjapan.org/

2011-03-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

http://www.allforjapan.org/

the site is complete. taking orders now. Please share this link with everyone you think might want to help. Thanks to everyone for all your support, and patience.

t shirt update

2011-03-26T08:53:00.000-07:00

The shirts are becoming available today. Waiting on the paypal buttons to be uploaded momentarily. The skull design will not be available at this time. With the tragedy so evident. The imagery of a skull and waves may cause some offense or misunderstanding and we do not want that. The images of hope are more appropriate at this time. We have been advised that after things are recovered and rebuilt, perhaps then would be a good time to print the image. We are holding on to it and look forward to a time when it will be used. Thank you all for your understanding and support, especially for the people of Japan.

http://www.allforjapan.org/

2011-03-19T00:17:00.001-07:00

Here are Mike Godfrey's and my designs for our shirts to help the victims of the disasters in Japan. Mike did a phoenix to represent rising from the ashes of death and destruction. I love this drawing and look forward to wearing it. I have done two designs the first being a japanese influenced dragon with the dragon's horns/antlers turning into a cherry tree branch with new blossoms representing new beginnings and new life with the japanese rising sun. I also have drawn a skull with waves coming out of it but the nation of Japan is rising up above and out of the reach of the death and destruction. In no way did I want to glorify the earthquake or the tsunami. I simply wanted to illustrate the determination of the japanese people to rise above them in defiance, determination, pride, strength, resilience, and humility. I will be offering the original drawings, limited edition prints, stickers, t-shirts, etc. with all profits from all sales going to the victims of the disasters through Shige at Yellowblaze, Yokohama Japan. Of course we could all just give money, but we want to give something back to everyone who gives. I have sent the images to the printer in LA, we will have shirts within days... Tattoo Artist Magazine will be posting these, and running a story; and of course we will be sending the art to Shige at Yellowblaze to include in his limited edition shirt series. This is just a preview. My originals have been drawn with Fusion Tattoo ink on illustration board. keep in touch for the final products. We are excited to do what we can for the victims of Japan.

sincerely,

Mike Godfrey and Jeff Gogue

Gogue art Studios

call or email with questions or donations;

541 218 0911

send emails to: paintings@gogueart.com

Shige-Gogue & Godfrey-Gogue, Japan Collaboration

2011-03-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone. I'm scheduled to visit japan in fourteen days; to work and get my back worked on at Yellowblaze. Things are pretty bad, obviously. The U.S. Gov. is recommending I delay my trip but I am booked solid through mid Nov. I'm not sure what to do. I don't want to delay. Aside from this, Shige has asked me to do a collaboration t shirt with him for the victims of these disasters. I will be working on the design today and will be sending it to yellowblaze asap. I will most likely have a few designs by the end and am happy to donate them all to the cause. My co-worker, Mike Godfrey has offered his time and efforts as well. The art, the shirts, stickers etc. will all go to help the victims of Japan. Please keep in touch as we want to make the most impact we can to help. If we all do what we can... then that is all we can do. Thank you, jeff

2011-02-20T06:49:00.000-08:00

My good friend Amber Rothrock, Seattle WA makes custom frames when she isn't working hard at Slave to the Needle. I've asked her to make a few frames for me and have finished the first painting of three. I just got a real human hand skeleton and have wanted to paint one for a while. Look closely at her frame it has tattoo needles among other things like bike chain, etc. I love Amber's work and hope to do more pieces to compliment her unique style. This painting is for sale on my shopping page linked on my website. I'm also linking Amber's Rothrockin frames here for you to check out and order some TRULY custom frames for your own paintings.

http://www.rothrocknframes.com/#

in limbo

2011-02-16T09:54:00.000-08:00

24"x 72" oil on canvas.

"i am free"

2011-02-15T08:33:00.000-08:00

17.5"x 21.5"

I wanted to add some dimensional aspects to these panels to give the end product a more hand made, original quality. I'm sure this had been done before but I haven't seen it. I feel like self discovery is always more satisfying than duplication. This is the first of what I hope to be a number of creatively displayed paintings to come. This piece is oil on panel(s)

price: $1,000.00 plus s/h ($100) (SOLD)

SOAA Workshop paintings for Sale

2010-11-10T12:30:00.000-08:00

I had an awesome time teaching at Southern Oregon Art Academy! I am offering two of the three original oil paintings I did as demos at the workshop. The Academy has asked for the third, (small jaw bone) to be donated to their gallery. I am donating half of the proceeds from the sale of the other two originals back to the school since they paid me a flat rate to teach the workshop, I'd like to help them recoup their money and then some. I believe in their intentions to teach art and inspire people to reach for their artistic potential. If you would like to purchase one of these original paintings, please call 541 218 0911, or visit my online gallery and store at http://gogueart.bigcartel.com/

Workshop... in southern Oregon

2010-09-30T06:39:00.000-07:00

The Southern Oregon Art Academy has asked me to teach a workshop for them. They have moved to a new facility and are really growing. It's my honor to share the things I'm learning at a place where excellence is the standard. I'm honored and humbled to do this. It will be a full day including demonstrations in oil painting, application, technique, tips, and tricks, I'll also be sharing the things I know about making art your passion and your career. I've been making a living as a full time artist for over a decade and selling my art for 25 years. There are limited spots available so sign up as soon as you can. Anyone is welcome, SOAA is offering a discount for locals, so if you live in southern Oregon , make sure you call the school and get the code to obtain the discounted price. The net income of this workshop is going to the school, and it is my honor to help them. click on the Southern Oregon Art Academy link next to this post.

Art, and other things, for sale...

2010-09-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

I just set up a shopping cart page. These are the actual Original paintings available for purchase. I also added some prints and T shirts... Much more to come. Check back often.

Gogue Art — Home

CALVARIA update, Sept. 20, 2010

2010-09-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

Calvaria is almost here. The wine is being bottled, the labels are awaiting approval. We have our stickers, the posters are ordered, the custom stone wine coasters are on their way... My book maker had some problems with the die they are using to deboss the cover so, it has unfortunately, taken longer than I thought. Doesn’t it always seem to go like that? I’m being told that the first shipment of books will be here in the next ten days. I want to give everyone out there who hasn’t done so, one more chance to pre order Calvaria. I will be including something with the book that the people that get it after the release date will not get. Something special for those of you who have that extra faith in me and my work. In these current trends it seems that everyone is making books. I don’t blame them. These days just about anyone can do it, from anywhere. I’m really tired of getting cheap books that come apart after looking at it a few times. The overseas printers are very inexpensive but the product can often reflect that fact. I’m not out to wow you with some fancy package or gimmicks. I’m out to give you a full collection of my skull artwork from the last five years, in a quality showcase that protects it so you can enjoy it for a long long time. This project is very important to me and my thanks goes out to everyone all over the world that has given me the honor of tattooing them, and the privilidge of sharing my paintings. I truly feel like it’s just the beginning. My daily dream as a kid, was one of being an artist that affects people’s lives. I feel like I am living that dream now and just want to see where it takes me. I also feel the need to keep going and live by example, the artist’s way, to those people out there that want the same things. If someone else sees what I’m doing, and does more with their day than they would have otherwise, then how could I ask for anything more than that? I’m planning on holding a book release party at my studio on Friday November 5th from six to ten. All are welcome, I will hopefully have some of the originals back on loan from the collectors for the night. So plan on coming out to see the books, tatse the wine, and see the art.

Thanks so much,

jeff

CALVARIA

2010-08-18T22:33:00.001-07:00

CALVARIA: is the Latin word for skull. I have always been captivated with mortality; the condition of being mortal, or susceptible to death; the opposite of immortality. I Have been painting and tattooing skulls for the past few years, simply because I enjoy it, and I like the reminder of my own mortality. The skull is both a metaphor for mortality and a complete structural and textural painting challenge. I have gathered a collection of most of the skull paintings and tattoos I’ve done over the past few years. These have been printed on the highest quality paper with the highest quality ink, and bound, by hand with the best care taken to make sure this book will last a lifetime. I have chosen a leatherette cover to accommodate the mindsets that would find real leather compromising to their values. The 12"x 12" cover has been given a blind deboss with a custom die I designed. I have reached for the simplicity and elegance I see in Japanese culture. These books are a true limited edition of only five hundred printed copies. I will sign and number them by hand. I believe in rarity. I’ve always been one to strive for something that not everyone has, or can obtain. I like the idea that, as in life, opportunities come, and opportunities go. I have saved every dollar I could, I have not paid bills for months, and I also borrowed money to get these books printed. I could have had thousands printed for way cheaper in China or something like that, but I chose to go with a high end handmade product from North America. It’s been a gamble, but it’s been a gamble I believe in, and am willing to risk. I plan on having a signed and numbered limited edition print available to purchase with each of the first two hundred copies, if you so choose. I also plan on having stickers, t shirts and a poster that will compliment the book. These are all in the works. but the first two hundred books have been paid for and are on their way. I wanted to give you the opportunity to pre order your copy now. I will be selling these numerically on a first come first serve basis. I am willing to take requests on specific numbers, also on a first come first serve basis, but cannot promise your requested number will be available. Traditionally, limited edition artwork was sold numbered because the printing plates would wear over time and the quality would diminish. These days the quality is consistent but there’s something about getting a low number in an edition that tends to add more value. This blog is basically a sneak peak of this project because I’m very excited to offer a full collection of these skull pieces, including twenty one lithograph quality, high resolution scans of paintings that are available in limited editions, and thirty five professional quality photographs of paintings never scanned for reproduction. That’s fifty six of my skull paintings in one place. Even my most inexpensive promotional prints I sell at shows for ten bucks would cost you $560 to have all of these. I have also printed thirty two studio photographed skull tattoos I’ve done from here in the US , in the UK, and Japan. Eighty eight signature marked pages with two introduction pages explaining how I came to be known as “That guy that does skulls.” There are two velum pages one with a Gogue Art skull logo watermark, and the other over a portrait my daughter took of me, holding the skull that has been such an inspiration.

If you are interested in getting this book, please visit my shopping page on my website.

as I see it...

2010-07-11T11:54:00.000-07:00

AS I SEE IT WITH JEFF GOGUÉ 

Published in the current issue of Skin and Ink Magazine. Aug. 2010

 Is she born with it? Or is it Maybelline? Do you remember those commercials? The obviously beautiful woman, a professional model, in makeup applied by a professional makeup artist, with the wind blowing perfectly through her flawless hair. Are they still doing those? There is another thing I remember clearly: the first time I ever saw Stevie Ray Vaughn play the guitar. I had often heard his songs but never really thought much of them. Half-listening, I had heard his guitar playing in the background in lots of coffee shops and on random radio stations as I was driving. But one late night, I was flipping through the channels and came across his appearance at Austin City Limits on a public TV station. In all honesty, my jaw dropped as I watched this man with a grin on his face, his head tilted back and eyes closed, move his hands and fingers effortlessly over the frets and strings with such precision, speed and accuracy. I honestly questioned if he were really playing. To actually experience the complexity and hear the number of notes he was generating absolutely baffled me; the subtleties like his strumming high up on the neck to get one kind of sound or right up against the bridge to produce another, how he’d hammer-on the strings as they were being plucked or how he’d slyly turn the tone knob, the volume knob or pull up on the tremolo bar all while playing. And never once did he look down at his hands. The only word I could use to describe it was “effortless.”

Now, I actually can play the guitar and, I can assure you, it never has and never will come close to being “effortless.” Never! I don’t care how much talent you’re born with. But what is talent anyway? The best definition I could find is: “A special creative or artistic aptitude, or ability.” Aptitude is a capacity for learning, inclination or tendency. Personally, I think most people mistake “skill” for “talent.” Like I said, talent is a special capacity for learning. “Skill,” on the other hand, is the learned capacity to carry out predetermined results, often with the minimum outlay of time, energy or both. So do you need talent to attain a skill? Do people think I was born knowing how to draw? Was Stevie Ray Vaughn born knowing how to play the guitar? Of course not. We—and that includes everyone on the planet—aren’t able to speak, walk or even keep from pooping our pants when we’re born. It’s not talent that impresses people, it’s the skill, the learned capacity or ability to do something and make it look easy.

Talent, at least in my life, has generated a seed of resentment for many of the people with whom I come in contact. “I wish I had your talent,” they say to me. What they mean is, “I wish I had your skill” or “I wish I were able to do what you do and make it look easy.” Well, I truly believe that just about anyone can “make it look easy,” if they really want to. Being “talented” or, in other words, inclined to learn quickly and easily, would obviously get people to their goals faster, but it’s not the speed at which you attain something that is the most important thing. In fact, that can actually take away from one’s credibility and respect. Compare someone who worked her entire life to attain a great skill to someone who came to the same skill level quickly and with very little effort. Which one are you going to respect more? You’ll respect the one who worked hard for it and you will, by nature, suspect the other. Unless I miss my guess, I assume that anyone would rather be “respected” than “suspected.”

Whether or not she was born with it or whether she uses Maybelline, that doesn’t really matter to me as much as whether or not she is intrinsically beautiful. You may be extremely talented and things come to you easily (and you can’t help that) or you may be one of the lucky ones who have to work hard for your accomplishments. I envy the latter. Nothing feels better than accomplishment. Especially accomplishing something that’s difficult. The trick is, once you’re there, make it look easy.

R.I.P. Stevie Ray Vaughn. I’m sure you worked harder than any of us will ever know.

—Jeff Gogué

You get what you pay for.

2010-01-21T06:27:00.000-08:00

So, what did THAT cost you? The typical question when you show someone something nice that you just got. Isn’t that the foundation of how we value things, the cost? I'm not talking about the “manufacturer’s suggested retail price”... the “MSRP” I’m talking about the actual cost. I went to a gun and knife show today. My first one. My son and I walked in and were overwhelmed by all the people and stuff. I wasn’t planning on buying anything, just going to check things out. On our way down the last aisle, we both noticed a table full of Samurai swords. The price tags ranged from two to four hundred dollars each. The guy selling them saw that they caught our eyes.

“Fifty bucks”, he said.

“Fifty bucks?” I replied, as I read the price tag of $329 on one, and $289 on another. “Why only fifty bucks?”

“Guy went bankrupt.” he told me. “I picked ‘em up at auction. Figured I could get rid of ‘em here, but no one’s buying.”

I started looking closer. I picked my favorite one and had my son pick his. I paid him his fifty bucks each and headed out. When I got home I googled the swords, and sure enough, they were priced in the hundreds. I felt like I got a really good deal, but the cost for me was low. I walked in. Showed my wife, and set them against the wall behind one of my guitars. They may have had a high price on them, but the “cost” for me was low. They came easy and cheap. I guarantee you, if I had actually paid six or seven humdred of my hard earned dollars for these two swords, I would have valued them much more and set them in a more prestigious place.

I’ve been greeted numerous times with, “I hate you!” at shows, on here, by friends, by family, and by strangers... I know people mean it almost as a compliment, but it kind of implies that things come easy for me, and they hate me or resent me for it. The truth is, I work hard for it, and it doesn’t come as easy as people might think. I've attached a couple photos of my “Canvas Graveyard” as I call it. these are just SOME of the stretcher bars I have that I bought as stretched blank canvases, put my full effort into, and ended up cutting them off and throwing them away. I sold a couple of them, but almost all of these you see here were complete tragedies. the best painting intentions... fallen short, and abandoned. Ironically, their skeletons await their resurrection as something new and hopefully valued rather than despised and tossed aside. Another promise I can make to you is that every painting, every image, every brush stroke, comes at a cost for me. I’m investing my heart and soul into all of it, so when I complete something and feel good enough about it to show you... You see a painting. What you don’t see is the conceptualizing, the sketching, the photography, the under-painting, and you definitely don’t see the canvas graveyard.

I devote almost all my energy and most of my time to my art. Like I’ve said in earlier blogs, I do it because I love it. I’m grateful to all of you for your support, encouragement, and interest. I hope these pics encourage you to keep hard at it. not for any other reason than the fact that you love to create. Even if it’s been done before, it hasn’t been done by you, so do it... And if it doesn’t come easy for you? If you feel empty? If it’s inconvenient? If you mess up and have to start again? whatever... just remember, You get what you pay for... And when someone asks you, “So, what did that cost you?” You can just say, “You don’t even know!”

Every one of these at one time had a painting on them... almost all were abandoned, and thrown out.

something new

2009-10-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Here's two new paintings. The first one is titled, "Problem Child", 48"x60". The other one is for the Portland Tattoo expo next weekend. I titled it "Red Tape" after all the bullshit We went through in Customs in London. It's 48"x72". Hope you like em.

Lady Luck 09

2009-03-16T20:36:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I went to the Lady Luck show in Reno to hang out. First time I've gone to a show without working it in my entire career. I have to say, It was cool... kinda weird. Got to talk to a lot more artists than usual, which was really cool. There's so many great people out there doing their thing. Got to hang out with some really good friends, my sister Gina, her husband (also named Jeff), and Kim, (my wife). Tony Ciavarro and Bunny gave me some Roulette lessons, hit my number a few times. My good friend Randy Scott Howell (Silverback ink, and Hot Stuff Tattoos Hollywood, CA) tattooed a sweet Traditional rose on my sis. Got to hang with one of my greatest influences and good friend, Robert Hernandez. I taught a small Oil Painting seminar where I did these two paintings as demos. Had to finish the machine painting in my room. Seminar was only a couple hours. Got to donate a sweet trophy for "Best of Day" tattoo. and got to have dinner with my loving Antie Rosie and my Uncle Victor from guam. To everyone who stopped me to talk, my seminar attendees, peeps who bought my issue of TAM, and my "brushtrokes" dvd... My deepest thanks. Every conversation was great. This is the best industry in the world... don't ever take this dream job for granted...

Ashley

2009-03-12T09:05:00.000-07:00

Painting of Ashley. 24"x48" oil on canvas $1800

just a thought...

2007-10-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

I walked through Sheffield this morning drinking my cappuccino. After a great week of tattooing and painting, a great show in London, with a best of show for Friday and Saturday, and looking forward to an interview for a feature article with the number one selling Tattoo magazine in Europe. I sat down in the city center, and heard the sweetest sounding jazz guitar being played. It a was a guy playing for pocket change on a fender strat through a little practice amp. Here's the thing... I've been playing music for 17 years, I have like six guitars, a drum set, a piano and two basses. I've worked at it and never got past mediocre. Here's a guy playing for pocket change... and he'd blow me out of the water, every day of the week, and twice on Sunday. Playing for change. He was so good. and playing for change. The thought overwhhelmed me of the "definition of success." I often quote, " There is nothing more common than unsuccessful men with talent." What is success?... Money? Recognition? Fame? Travel? Compliments and ass kissing?... Maybe a little... maybe... All I know is this guy was ten times more successful than I have ever been at playing the guitar. I love playing the guitar. I love writing songs. I have practiced and practiced, and I couldn't do what he was doing today.

Point being... True success can't be measured by the masses, but by that inner voice that says you have done all you can do to reach as far as you can, fulfilling your full potential... That sounds like a life long journey, doesn't it?

Salvadore Dali said, "A true artist is NOT one who is inspired, but one who inspires others... I encountered a true artist today... playing for change, he changed my life with a few chords and a, "cheers" as I dropped my pocket change into his flimsy guitar case.

To the "jazz player"... thanks,

jeff

Last day in Sheffield.

2007-10-13T15:07:00.000-07:00

last day in Sheffield.

Hey... had nothing but ideal clients, felt very welcome, and taken care of. They fed me, cleaned up after me and even did my laundry. Lookin forwrd to coming back soon. Here's a few more pics, including a couple of town and the street where the shop's at... and a freehand tattoo I did today on Brian from Scotland. I did the little painting in my hotel room in london and the tall one here in Sheffield. The interview with Niel, (editor of Skin Deep Magazine) went great and had an awesome dinner. Heading to Jo Harrison's shop in the morning.

Thanks for checking it out!

Scheffield..

2007-10-11T16:04:00.000-07:00

I’m staying in Scheffield which is in northern England. It’s pretty big... there are about fifty thousand students alone here. “Thou Art Tattoo” is an amazing shop. Great staff, great location, great energy. I’m having a hard time, when I think about leaving. I think I should work here a few months a year. I stayed tonight after work to paint with Tancho, an artist here in the shop. He’s never oil painted before. We got some food and beer and went to town. It was a great time. He’s an awesome guy with an amazing attitude and way about him. He’s originally from Argentina,a dn has worked in Spain too. I’m glad I met and got to work with him. He spacializes in Japanese and Americana. Real nice atyle. I’m hoping to bring home a little watercolor from him. I did a demo for him to see how I paint. I’ll post a pic of it. I’ve done eight paintings over here so far and will post all the pics soon. Here’s a few... tattoos too. Everyone so far has really been unbelievable. Great food... great everything! Thanks Thou Art Tattoo. Two more days here. Skin Deep is coming on Saturday to do a feature on me and my work... excited about that! and then I’m off to Birmingham to tattoo Jo Harrisonand spend a day in her shop. I’ll keep you all posted. Enjoy the pics!

jeff

2007-10-08T17:53:00.000-07:00

2007-10-08T17:41:00.000-07:00

Finally... Here’s some photos from the show. Funny... As I type this... I’m hearing it in my head in a brittish accent....that’s loads of fun. I’ve got some pics of the line outside... it down two blocks a couple hours before the show. I have some of the street after the show, (blurry but wanted to show you all the trash), There awas a wall there heading to BrickLane, Where the show was, that had some cool graffity. And finally a couple of the tattos I did.

Enjoy... Oh... and Scheffield is a really cool city. I’ll take some photos tomorrow and get them up asap. Had the best Thai food of my life tonight. I think I might be moving to this place... unbelievable!

four a.m.... Saturday night

2007-10-07T01:10:00.000-07:00

Ok... so... It's Saturday, well actually, it's Sunday, like three a.m. I just got into my hotel room... What a day! I got four hours sleep, woke up late, got to the show late hadn't drawn anything for my client, freehanded a dragon on him, (John from Scotland) and ended up winning "best of Show" for Friday and Saturday! Wow... but I need to explain something. I was all worried about all my friends and people who are watchig my career. I got second and third last year here. I know everyone wanted me to come back with a first place this time. I did it... and I have to be honest. Right after I did the tattoo and I was cleaning up, I met a japanese artist, (can't spell his name), Yoko, a friend who has a full body suit from Shige, (one of my role models), introduced us. He bought a shirt from me and told me he really liked my work. I also have been able to meet one of the world's most respected tattooers, Aaron Bell, and paint with him in his hotel room, I also had a half hour conversation tonight with filip Leu, probably thee most revered, respected, and idolized tattoo artist in the world today, from Lausanne, Switzerland, about oil painting, (he was asking me questions about painting... crazy.) All of those things, not to mention the fact that I changed someone's life today... they all meant more than getting some trophy, or first place. That's what it's really about. It's about being my best, and affecting people I come in contact with. I have so much to learn, about everything, and I'm just grateful, for everyday that I have here to do just that. To learn... to learn who I am, and to learn who I need to be. Thanks for all the support from all of you. I will post pics soon... It's four a.m. and I have to try to sleep for a few hours and do it all again tomorrow. I appreciate your patience on the photo posting.

jeff

1st day in London...

2007-10-04T17:17:00.000-07:00

So it’s 2a.m. On Friday, and I can’t sleep. Had a full day riding the big red buses, and the tube (subway for the americans) going to art museums, and drinking too many cappucinos. I saw Aaron Bell and Ed Lott from Slave to the Needle, Seattle Wa. on the plane and hung out with them today. After all our running around we decided to hit the art store down the block from our hotel and do some oil painting in their room. Got nine paintings done altogether. Was a real good time. Can’t think of a much cooler time than painting in London with world class tattooers. Maybe tattooing in London with world class tattooers... that’s in a few more hours, if I can get to sleep. I’ll take some photos in the morning and post ‘em. The food’s good, the company’s good... let’s hope the tattooing will be good. I’ll keep you all posted on what’s happening in London town!

Cheers

jeff

Off to London!

2007-10-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

I'm heading out to London Town, today. Will be back on the 18th. I'm going alone so pray that I don't get lost. I'm not the quickest thinker when it comes to directions and cacthing the right tube train. I should be able to keep you all posted while I'm there. I'll be working the London show this coming weekend and then doing a guest spot for a week in Sheffield, (north of London) at a shop called "Thou Art Tattoo", then stopping by Jo Harrison's shop in London the last couple days of the trip. I hope to pick up some canvases... I brought my paint and brushes.

Check back for updates!

jeff

expanding my horizons...

2007-09-25T20:42:00.000-07:00

I have a wonderful client from New York. I tattooed some leaves across her back, and around her hip. When I photographed her tattoo, I stumbled on a great pose which displayed both reservation and modesty, along with vulnerability, and courage. I've wanted to paint it for a while but was a little intimidated to tackle a human subject. I'm not quite done. I'd like to add a little glazing to add depth, but I'm happy with it and wanted to show everyone. Check back for updates, and let me know if you're interested in it's purchase.

Thanks so much,

jeff

London show banner... original oil painting available.

2007-09-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

I painted this for the London! Oil on canvas. It will be there and available to take home at the end of the show. $1600 u.s. Hope you like it. Can be purchased pre-show, will ship if you're not able to pick it up in person.

thanks,

jeff

2007-08-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't do "myspace"... I thought I'd show you one of my new paintings. I did a tattoo of a death moth on a friend of mine and was inspired to do this painting. It's on a gallery wrapped canvas so it doesn't need a frame. The price is $1200 plus shipping costs. Also canvas wrap and paper prints will be available soon, in a very limited number. Probably 25. I apologize for not having my painting gallery up on the site. I'm working on it. Thanks for your patience. If anyone is interested in this painting or any other painting, give me a call and leave a message, or email me.

Thanks so much,

jeff

541.291.0525

appointments?... if you have emailed me...

2007-08-22T11:10:00.000-07:00

I want everyone to understand... I have a clientele list of close to a hundred current projects. Close to sixty are one to two year projects (i.e. a back piece averages 40 hours, which adds up to an average of ten appointments, equaling one to two years, assuming an appointment every month or two.) The rest need multiple sessions. I work on one to three clients a day, five days a week. That means there are a max of sixty appointments a month. with over a hundred current people to try to service... that means it takes at least three months to see everyone just one time. I get tons of emails, and phone calls, and people coming by the shop, everyday, in spite of my blogs, and phone messages stating that I am currently not taking any new clients. It is nothing personal, if I haven't returned your calls or emails. I am unable to. It would add two hours to my, already busy day. If you want me to work with you... check back every couple months or so, realizing it could be a year before we connect. There is no waiting list. There is no back door. there are no exceptions. If it's not worth the wait... There are tons of amazing tattoo artists out there... Of course, if they're that good, you're going to encounter similar circumstances with them.

Bottom line is, good work takes time. Be patient, don't compromise, and don't take it personal.

I'm deleting all my emails to date and starting fresh. I'm going to try and respond daily to all inquiries.

My sincere apologies, if I've given you any false hope for something sooner.

Thanks SEATTLE!!!

2007-08-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Wanted to say thanks to all who attended and stopped by the booth at the Seattle Tattoo Convention... Gloria, Damon and Staff, Crash and Kent from Tattoo Artist Magazine, Jones Soda Company. Thanks to everyone who let me tattoo them. This was one of my best shows! I loved every piece I got to do, and am just so honored each time someone trusts me to leave my mark on their body.
I got 1st place for "tattoo of the day" on Friday and Sunday, which are going to be on the new "Jones Soda" bottles... look for them in stores soon! Also got 1st place for "best Leg" Thanks for coming Dawn! Crash, the Editor in Chief of "Tattoo Artist Magazine" picked me for a feature in the spring issue!!! What an honor! They're launching their public version of the trade magazine, "Tattoo Collector" look for that in stores too. Got lots of encouragement and of course was humbled by all the good work being done. Keeping me on my toes!

Next Stop... LONDON!

Pics: Rubber worm 'n' bass, (3rd place "tattoo of the day" for Saturday.
Lemur on skull, (1st place "tattoo of the day" for Sunday, Jones soda label)
Freehand skull, (1st place "tattoo of the day" for Friday, Jones soda label)
Star Gazers, First session on Gloria, about half way there.

Thanks, "Skin and Ink"!

2007-07-02T18:23:00.000-07:00

Bob Baxter, and his awesome wife Mary, came and did a feature shoot and interview last week for an upcoming article in Skin and Ink. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to be photographed. You were all so patient. The Article should be out in November, (Jan. issue). I was also asked to do the cover art for one of next year's issues. I'm so honored!

Speaking of new art... Here's a sneak peak at the Milan, Italy show poster and magazine add. I just finished it on July 1st. Take a close look at it. you might be surprised at what you see. It's somewhat of a self portrait. Ask me in person, and I'll tell you about it. It's a 24"x36" oil on canvas. Not for sale at the moment. I'll let everyone know if it comes available.

All American Tattoo Fest!!! Sacramento, CA

2007-06-18T21:05:00.000-07:00

The show this year was a lot of fun! I tattooed Some great people, met some great people, and saw some old friends. The sushi was unbelievable! Mikunis kicks ass! My good friend, and veteran tattoo artist, Jen Schichi got a tiny little "California" tattoo, (Poppies and a quail) She's got like a thousand hours on her body. Mostly by Guy Aitchison, so it's always a little unnerving to tattoo her. I also did a portrait on Francesco, from Fat Cat Tattoo in Sac. I'm glad I worked the last two shows with Nikko!!! I've learned a bunch from him about color portraits. I also tattooed Alan, Julie, and Al. Thanks so much to all of you. I'm honored to do your work! I won "Best Back piece", "Best Full Leg", 2nd for "Best Traditional", (Cory Norris got 1st.) and Treavor Barnes and I did a collaboration on Bruce that won "Best Chest"! That was sweet. I'm honored to work with Treavor and it was a true privilege to do that piece together. Got to hang out with the crew from The Phoenix Tattoo Company, John Highland, of 12 Monkeys, Nick and Cory from Classic Tattoo Grass Valley, Jen from the Mermaid's Tale, Jason and Andy, from Metamorphic Tattoo, Orly from Humble Beginnings, Claire, Megan and Carson. I also got to meet Grime for the first time and show him a few of my paintings. CRAZY! What an inspiring artist. Last but not least, I showed Miki (puts on the London, and Milan show, along with this show, he's also the editor of Tattoo Life and Tattoo Energy, both European magazines) my sketch for the Milan poster next year. He gave me the go ahead, and I'll be painting the final draft this week. Check back for that later.

Queen Mary Show!!

2007-06-12T20:04:00.000-07:00

Long beach was a lot of fun! Finished a cover up of a tribal dolphin armband that I started in Detroit this last March. Got to freehand a ghost dragon on Victor's stomach, and Did a fun little pin-up. Didn't get any sleep and met a lot of really cool people. Hung out with some old friends and made some new ones.

getting an appointment...

2007-05-21T19:04:00.000-07:00

So my phone message box is full... I get ten to twenty emails a day asking for appointments... and people are coming by my shop daily asking for appointments. I'm not complaining... I'm just overloaded. I have around fifty large scale projects going right now, so if I were to give everyone the appointments they need to finish, I'd be booked over a year. Needless to say, I'm not taking on any new clients or new pieces for the rest of the year, for sure... maybe a little longer. There's no waiting list, and I can't book next year. It's just too much. If you still want me to tattoo you... check back in a few months. Keep in touch, and please be patient. I want to be there for everyone, but I can only do so much. I'm already at my shop twelve hours a day, making needles, preparing, and doing the art necessary for my current projects. I hope you all understand.

Thank you so much, for all the support and encouragement. I love what I do, and want to keep doing it as long as I can. Hopefully, the rest of my life!

Boise, and Long Beach.

2007-05-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

The Boise show was over Mother's Day weekend, and I shared a booth with Nikko, From Apple Valley, CA. Here's his Site: http://www.myspace.com/nikkotattsu and http://www.ignitiontattoo.com/ Did some really fun pieces. Check them out on my myspace. I'll be sharing, again with Nikko, at the Longbeach show in the beginning of June. Stop by and say hi to us.

Website's in progress.

2007-05-20T17:04:00.000-07:00

I just want to let everyone know that this site is still under construction. Please keep checking back and be patient. I'm grateful for all the help I've had, so far, on it. There should be paintings up soon.

upcoming shows!

2007-05-20T16:54:00.000-07:00

Thanks for checking this out!!!

"Queen Mary show", Long Beach, CA second weekend of June. No appointments available.

"All American Tattoo Festival", Sacramento, CA. Third weekend of June. No appointments available.

"Seattle Tattoo Convention", Seattle WA. August. No appointments available.

"London Tattoo Canvention", UK. October. http://www.thelondontattooconvention.com/info.html No appointments available. Possible guest spot. ??

"Saipan Tattoo Conevntion", Last weekend in October. Some available spots.

"Milan Tattoo Convention", Milan, Italy. February, 2008. No appointments available.