A group of us were down for Fest and wanted to get tattoos. Jeremy worked with us for weeks to book a five person appointment and get us all what we wanted. I had a guest artist, Isaac, who did a great job talking me through everything since it was my first tattoo. Shop was clean, well organized, friendly and everything else you'd want in a tattoo shop. 10/10 would go back. read more

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Mike did a phenomenal job on both of mine. I appreciate that he gives honest consideration to the tattoos requested rather than just making a dollar. The customer service from Jeremy was great from start to finish and I had good interactions with all of the staff. My biggest thing is that I felt safe and respected throughout both visits. The location is nice and the inside was clean, comfortable and filled with beautiful art. I would recommend this parlor to anybody. read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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gave me a horrid medusa tattoo it's squashed and not at all like the stencil i provided as well as the line work is inconsistent. The whole tattoo is bad and extremely upsetting will have to get covered. read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - this is the stencil i provided - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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Great experience !!! Reuben did an incredible job. I am very happy with this tattoo and will definitely call them for my next one. Thanks Reuben!! read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

I just got a beautiful matching sunflower tattoo with my mom and the prices where very workable. We were walk-ins and very indecisive but they were nice enough to accommodate my mom and myself in finding a tattoo. They even did our tattoos at the same time! read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - sunflower with shading $100, a little smaller than my palm! - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Thank you Rich! I met with Rich about a month ago about covering an old tattoo on my shoulder. I emailed him a few pictures of tattoos I liked, and he created an original design that was perfect! I went in on Saturday, and I am very pleased with the results. Thanks, Rich! You rock! read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

I have gone to Rich for two tattoos now and I have absolutely loved my experience at Anthem. The first time I visited I only had one small tattoo on my shoulder, so getting one on a more sensitive part of my arm had me a little nervous. Rich was awesome the entire time, cracking jokes with me and keeping me entertained the entire duration of the tattoo. This led me to getting a second by him and his service was the exact same. Both tattoos have held up very well and I still adore them. My favorite part about this shop is how professional and kind everyone is. I never felt judged or uncomfortable the entire time. I also love that the shop doesn't look like a traditional shop. It's a nice house in town with their own art gallery inside. I highly recommend stopping by, and if he's open, work with Rich! read more

Got my first tattoo done with Mike, and my experience was great. Very professional and sanitary. Mike managed to pull together a great forearm sleeve from a reference photo. Everyone was very nice and respectful, can't wait for my next session to finish the piece. read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - Result of 3.5 hours of work. - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Great tattoo shop! I love Anthem! The shop has a nice feel to it, it's comfortable and clean, the receptionist is super nice, and all the artists are really nice and professional. My wife and I have had quite a few tattoos done here and have been very happy with all of them. We often recommend them to others and everyone we have referred has also been very satisfied. Bach has done most of our work and he is awesome, super nice dude and a really good artist! We have also had work done by Tim, Rich, and Reuben and have had really good experiences with all of them. I highly recommend Anthem for your next tattoo! read more

Great shop! Came in for a walk in tattoo, absolutely loved it. Very welcoming when I first showed up, i was able to meet an artist quickly, and we were on table in a few minutes. Rich did a great job on my piece, thank you ! Definitely coming back here for my next. Very clean, homey (its literally in an old house), and professional. read more

I've been going to see Dave (Sleepy Dave) at Anthem for around 8yrs now, since they were at the old location off 6th St. Before I ever went to Anthem I actually did a ton of research on tattoo artists and shops because I was looking for someone who did black and grey portraits. I was willing to travel wherever I needed to go because obviously it's permanent and going on my body. So you can imagine my surprise when one of the artists I came across was Sleepy Dave and he was at Anthem, which is in Gainesville (hot damn)! I made an appt to go in for a consultation with drawings I had for my tattoo. The Shop: has always been very clean and nice (old location and new location). They're located in a cool historic house on NW 2nd Ave. All the artists are set up in what used to be bedrooms throughout the house (so if you're getting your tattoo and your bits are showing they can close the door for privacy). There's flash on the walls when you walk in, I would like to point out that they've drawn a bunch of their own flash and won awards at conventions for their awesome drawings. They all take their sanitation practices very seriously and keep their workstations sterile and equipment properly maintained. The Staff: Sam runs the house and she keeps all of them in check (just kidding). She's super sweet though and chances are you will talk to her when you call in or go down to the shop. Dave is the artist I've personally been seeing for years and he's amazing! His portraits are truly some of the most beautiful pieces of art I've ever seen. I haven't been tattooed by the other artists but I know them from going to the shop for so long and I've seen their work, had friends who have been tattooed by them, known some for years so I feel comfortable and confident to speak to their abilities. Everyone there can do different styles but they all have their own niche that you can see they've perfected. They've all had years of training so you can feel comfortable that they all know what they're doing. Tim, I've known since we were kids and he is also an amazing artist who has won a bunch of awards for his work. I just referred a friend to him for his awesome work. Katie Ryan also does some amazing work, Rich Mal and Mike Salay are certainly not "last on the list" they've both been tattooing for many years and do some absolutely beautiful work! They also bring in guest artists from all over and they all do their own guest appearances across the US so if you have a friend in another state they could potentially help recommend someone or may be in the area themselves to do a tattoo! You can check out all of them on social media and in their extensive portfolios at the shop. When I say this is the best tattoo shop around it's not just a bias, it's because years ago I personally put a lot of effort into looking for a sanitary shop with awesome artists and this is it. This place is literally my sanctuary, you will leave feeling better than when you went in because everyone is fun and hilarious and leaves with a smile (sore abs from laughing) and a beautiful new piece of artwork! They can take walk-ins but if you want a big, elaborate piece don't just assume you can walk in for that. Call first, make an appt. they may be booked out but they are all worth the wait, I promise. These guys (gals) are all professionals, talk to them about what you want, they can draw things up for you or may be able to help you with an idea that isn't fully "finished" in your head. Listen to what they have to say as far as sizing (if you wanted an entire car engine the size of a thumbnail they may tell you it needs to be bigger, listen to them. They know what they're talking about and will help make sure that your vision comes out perfectly! Make sure you go check these guys out for your next piece! read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - In progress shot of my back from last month with Sleepy Dave. 1 more session until my angel is done...then on to my next project with Dave! - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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Anthem is located on 6th Ave just south of University Ave. They are open at 1pm, and you should make an appointment ahead of time if you have a large or custom piece. After hearing Dave's name around town when asking for artist recommendations, I decided to set up an appointment with him. 1.5 months later, I was in the seat getting my tattoo. Dave was real nice and professional. The environment was fun. The price was great. But most importantly, Dave took time to make my tattoo as amazing as it is. He spent a long time on it just to make sure it was perfect. It was like watching a master paint using oils. I'm definitely coming here next time I want to add... read more

How can these guys not have any reviews? I LOVE Anthem tattoo. Me and my friends have been inked by many of the guys here and have had amazing work done. They are super fun and awesome to help you get through the most painful parts. I only trust the guys in this buiding, read more

Tim Strating is the actual BEST. He's responsive, patient, compassionate, funny, and, probably most important: a great tattoo artist. I gave him some pictures and ideas of what I wanted, but also really tried to give him creative freedom, too. I'm really happy with the tattoo I got. It wasn't what I imagined, but actually much better. This was only my second one (just got started, at age 50), so I'm still learning, and he was great about answering questions. Also, everyone at Anthem is super nice and took really good care of me. Thanks so much! read more

Got a tattoo here a few months ago; a night/day tree done by Mike Salay. The shop is clean and comfortable; as soon as I entered the first time, I was treated very politely and in a friendly manner. The front-of-the-house/apprentice, Rick went through my idea in detail and we discussed price and placement after which he recommended Mike to do my tattoo. The tattooing experience was very comfortable and I ended up with a great piece of art. Would definitely recommend this place, ESPECIALLY if you want an American Traditional tattoo, this is what they're known for! read more

I hate to be the first to give less than five stars, but I don't think I got Mike's best work. I have a few friends with some really awesome pieces from him, and I'm just not happy with the color and the shading. I got orchids in Dec 2012 and specifically asked for no yellow (because it doesn't show up on my skin) and no spots or stripes. But while he was working on it he told me he thought it needed both those elements, and if I don't really like it I can come get it fixed. But I moved away within a couple months. I'm finally having it filled in at a place where I live now and I felt the need to give this feedback. read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - Dec 2012 by Mike Salay. - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

I loooove this tattoo shop! Everyone there is super friendly and helpful, the vibe straight from walking in the door in great! I recommend Bach to everyone who asks me about my tattoos read more

Got a tattoo from the Fest flash sheet this past weekend. Matt (who was guest spotting) did a great job. The place was clean, the staff was friendly, and I love the way it came out! And on top of it there was a prize wheel and I got my tattoo for free! Great experience. I will definitely be coming back next year during Fest for another tattoo! read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - By Matt. From the Fest tattoo flash sheet - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Love this tattoo shop so much, the drive from Tallahassee is worth it. Katie is my girl but all the other tattooer's are also very nice and extremely talented. The shop is pretty small due to so many work stations but there is a decent selection of flash to choose from and the atmosphere is amazing. I live in Chicago now, but will definitely be making a trip here next time I'm in FL. read more

Anthem Tattoo Parlor - Tattoo by Katie done in February 2014. - Tattoo Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

The entire staff is talented and professional and extremely knowledgable. The atmosphere is awesome and the pricing is very reasonable. Mike Salay and "Sleepy" Dave Kotinsley are very personable and make you feel like you are truly valued as an individual wanting the best of the best. I would recommend going to Anthem Tattoo over any Tattoo parlor any time, any place, anywhere. They by far set the standards that all others should follow!! read more

I got tattooed by KATIE last week. It was the end of the day Monday after Fest weekend, and to say the least, we were both SPENT. She still put in a bunch of time energy and thought that I could barely even get together for myself! KATIE is SO talented and thoughtful, she worked with me and explained why certain things would work and why others wouldn't look so great. She was kind, hilarious, and so entertaining. I can't wait to get tattooed by her again, even though I live in California. Not only was KATIE great, the shop itself is beautiful and has a great comfortable vibe, along with other artists who are great and funny as well. read more

Anthem has a new location on 2nd Ave just east of 6th St. I visited yesterday to get a tattoo by Katie Ryan, and the entire experience was wonderful. This was my third tattoo - the first two were done at BodyTech. Although they turned out nicely, the experience there wasn't nearly as pleasant and welcoming as at Anthem. Katie first gave me a consultation a few weeks ago, where I explained what I was looking for. She talked it over with me, showed me some similar images, and quoted a price. I left a $50 deposit and made my appointment. Anthem's shop is clean, bright and very welcoming as soon as you walk in. It's an older house that was converted, and they've keep a lot of the charm which was nice. Katie did a great job, was very friendly and we had a nice conversation throughout the two hours. The tattoo came out beautifully, and I've already gotten several compliments from complete strangers while out running errands. I would definitely recommend Anthem to anyone looking for a tattoo. I felt completely comfortable, welcome and valued as a client, and I got a piece of artwork that I'm proud to display. read more

I walked into Anthem Tattoo last week and was immediately impressed with the shop and the experience everyone had. I knew right then that I wanted a tattoo from one of these guys. I was then introduced to Tim Strating who provided outstanding understanding and helpful tips to help me with my first tattoo design. Last Monday I came back into the shop to get my first tattoo. Tim provided a very comfortable and chill setting, while maintaining a great level of professionalism. He made sure everything was just right and the tattoo came out just as I desired. I highly recommended Tim Strating for all of your tattoo needs. Thanks to everyone at Anthem read more

Shout out to Enrique at Anthem who did an awesome job on my first tattoo today. The shop was clean and friendly and Enrique was patient and worked with all of my requests. I would definitely recommend! read more

i usually only do food stuff, but this is important dammit. i have five tattoos: one from a place in seattle, two from body tech, and two from anthem. one of the ones i had done at body tech looks pretty fucked up because he was arguing with my friend the entire time -- seriously. i digress. i've seen mike at anthem both times. i remember him from body tech -- you know, the one who wasn't a complete asshole -- and so i decided to roll with it the first time. the second time i chose him because i really like his sailor tattoos. i love the two tattoos, and i'll be going to him again. he gave me a typography tattoo on the left side of my chest. it was a lot more painful that i was expecting, but he talked me through it. it's my favorite tattoo. i took over a half hour when it came down to the details, but he was quite patient with me and explained why some of the choices i was making weren't going to work out in the long run. i have a 10" x 5" color piece that he did on my side. it was both on my ribs and my back, so i was wiggling around a lot. again, he was very patient and kept making comments like "where are you going!" as i slowly gravitated away. it was a very fair price, though we did do it in one sitting. he even gave me some skin numbing stuff for the more painful section of shading. i was booked within a week of my consultation both times. my consultation turned into my sitting the first time, and that was pretty cool. all of the people who work there are down-to-earth people who just want to give you a good tattoo. read more

I love anthem. I consistently use Tim starting, and have had fabulous experiences with him. I've recommended him to friends who have used him on multiple projects. read more

Just got my first tattoo ever done by Rich! I'm a super perfectionist so my biggest fear about getting a tattoo was the possibility of feeling pressured and ending up with something I wasn't 100% happy with. I went with my sister, who got hers first, and after seeing how patient Rich was with her, I felt comfortable enough to get mine too. Everyone we met at the shop was really cool and made us feel so welcomed. The whole process was a lot of fun, I will definitely go back if I ever get another tat! Thanks Rich!! #yatted read more

I just went in today to get my first tattoo and I enjoyed the service and the work that was shown and given. I went to other shops around town and didn't feel comfortable with them. Rich was the artist that helped me, he is awesome at helping you with the nerves and at providing amazing service. I will definitely go here again, and will definitely recommend this artist as well. read more

I got my first tattoo done here a couple days ago, an abstract feather on my ribs, by Rich. I had an idea of what I wanted and where I wanted it and he drew it up beautifully. Everyone at Anthem was super friendly and easy to talk to. Rich did an amazing job and I couldn't be happier with the results. It was pretty painful because of where I got it, but Rich was super awesome with talking to me and making sure I was ok. I will 100% be going back here for future ink. read more

Best place to go period. The artist there know what they are doing and provide a professional, positive environment. Not to mention, great artwork and good pricing! You'll leave satisfied! read more

Tim is a super artist, free hand sketched Joan's tattoo and had it done in like an hour, this is THE tattoo place vin Gainesville !

I've come in twice as a walk-in and have been super pleased. Both times I worked with Tim to come up with a black and grey design that would fit in style with my other tattoos and within the open space on my arm. Couldn't be happier with the new piece. Tim does some rad work and I'll definitely be back at the shop when I visit Gainesville. read more

Walked in, got a new tattoo & some touch up on an older tat. Mike was great to work with and does quality work. If in Gainesville, this is the place to go. If in area again, I will definitely stop in to cross another of the tattoo's that I want done off the list. Reasonably priced too. read more

This is an easy review. Anthem simply rocks, there's no better place to go. Everyone there is talented, but most of my half sleeve done there was from Sleepy Dave. I gave him basic guidelines of what I wanted and just told him to make it look good. He did a damn good job. Also a very laid back, fun joint compared to some other shops I've been in. read more

On Sunday's, Anthem is open until 6... Well I showed up around 5.... and they were super cool about it! I did call ahead, so I had that going for me.... I had an ambiguous idea of what I wanted and Rich totally brought it to life. He hand-sketched a simple, clean, and awesome rendition, we chatted about it, and he bebopped right down and did it. Not only was he informative, kind, and totally accommodating, he was absolutely professional. I loved everyone's attitude, the building was dope as hell, and you can tell EVERYONE digs their job! They care about the client and though I had never been there before, they all made me feel like I was a regular! I absolutely recommend this place and will FOR SURE be coming back! Woop! read more

Whether you are going to get your first tattoo or you are covering the last bit of your skin with ink, this place is excellent. Very comfortable shop. Lots of great art on the walls and there are books available for each artist so that you can get an idea of the talent. Super friendly artists in a clean relaxed environment. Katie gave me my 9th tattoo and she was patient and kind. Simply a great tattoo artist that I can highly recommend. read more

I had an appointment today to get my first tattoo ever with Katie. I was of course a little nervous about it going in as I had never been through the process before, but she is so down to earth and personable that I was right at ease with her. I am SO happy with the results! She took my reference images and created an awesome line design that was exactly what I wanted and everything I didn't know I'd want but love! She has a really good eye, the tattoo is clean, crisp, and stylish. I am so very pleased with the way it came out, the pain was worth it and I think the price was incredibly reasonable. Happy customer. read more

I am not a tattoo expert. However, I did get my first tattoo here and have nothing but wonderful things to say about Anthem. After my grandfather passed away I had been tossing the idea back and forth about getting a tattoo of his catamaran on my ribs. After hearing nothing but good things about Anthem from people (including the ones I spoke to randomly on the street) I decided to go in. I came in with one picture from google images and a VERY vague idea of what I wanted in my head. In retrospect, I could not have been any less helpful or specific. Despite that, Mike Salay was unbelievably understanding and took what little I provided and came up with a beautiful tattoo. February first I got my very first tattoo and Mike kept me comfortable, relaxed and laughing during the whole thing which was GREATLY appreciated because I could not have been more nervous. In fact, EVERYONE that was working that day kept my mind off of the discomfort. Anthem (Mike in particular) couldn't have been more accommodating and I'm proud to show people my tattoo. read more

This has to be one of the greatest tattoo shops all across the board! I have either gotten tattooed or have witnessed every artist at the shop and each artist is very talented at their craft and very diverse! You won't be disappointed!! read more

Loved this place! The shop is super clean and homey inside. I got my first tattoo from Rich last week, he was so personable and patient. It was definitely everything I was looking for in terms of experience and outcome! read more