Several years ago I had Billyjack do an improvement/cover-up to a tattoo I had got from a shop in New Orleans. Then last week I went in for a new one. Neither of the designs were complicated or intricate...just some 3-5 inch ones. If you've seen Billyjack's Instagram page you know the man can do some pretty fabulous, complicated pieces so my stuff wasn't exactly anything that was automatically going to get his artistic juices flowing. And that's what I love about Billyjack. Even on when you give him a fairly simple concept, he'll make sure he makes it more and special. The most important thing he does in my opinion though is that he acts like a partner or a consultant, not just an artist who's going to execute the design you bring him. My experience down in New Orleans with the other shop was one where it was kind of like "whatever you want, man". I didn't need that, I needed a strong guiding hand and that's what I got with Billyjack. I threw out some ideas and he pretty much said what would and wouldn't work and then expanded on what would. Oh, and he's a blast to talk with. How many tattoos have you had where you and the artist have covered: dogs, kids (OK, those first 2 are pretty easy), rent relief policies during COVID and Roth IRA's. And laughing the whole time. read more

When I walked into the tattoo parlor, it looked clean, professional, and well put together. Based on the appearance alone, I felt confident I would receive good service. Unfortunately, that wasn't my experience at all. The artist who worked on me seemed inexperienced, and the process didn't match what I was told. What should have taken around 30 minutes was discussed as taking several hours, which already felt off. In the end, I was charged $200 for a cover-up that I'm extremely unhappy with--especially since it's on my face. To make matters worse, the artist didn't follow through on what was promised. He said he would work on two tattoos but only did one, and even then, it wasn't what I asked for. I specifically wanted a design resembling stitches, but instead I was left with a large black feather on my head that I deeply regret. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The environment also felt unprofessional. The staff came across as dismissive and made me feel judged for the tattoo ideas I wanted, which added to an already negative experience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Overall, I left feeling disappointed, frustrated, and unhappy with both the service and the final result. I would not recommend this shop. Are there any tattoo shops in the area willing to help fix a bad face tattoo once it heals? I'm worried it might scar, and I'm trying to figure out my options. If anyone has experience with cover-ups or thinks removal would be a better route, please let me know. I'd really appreciate any advice or recommendations--this is something I'm stressing about and want to fix the right way. I'm not trying to bash the entire shop, because there seemed to be some talented artists there. However, I do want to warn others about my experience with one specific artist. The artist I worked with--whose name may be Ivan or Isaac--came across as confident, but in my opinion did not demonstrate the level of knowledge or experience I expected. For example, when I asked about certain techniques like blood shading, he didn't seem to understand what I was referring to. That raised concerns for me about his training and experience. Again, this does not reflect everyone at the shop, but based on my experience, I would personally not recommend working with that particular artist. read more

See all

[[HIGHLIGHT]]Gabe rocked my tat and suggest anyone in the area should go there for their Tatoo's.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Wonderful people great service and clean establishment! read more

Artistic Encounter - Owl - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

I don't recommend this place. They overcharge their tattoos by $200-$300. When I showed other tattoo artists the bar spoon tattoo I got, they were floored when I told them I was charged almost $500 dollars for it. Multiple artists told me they would have done it for no more than $150. Also, the tattoo artist did not wrap my tattoo properly and it was leaking so bad I had to remove it and clean it. I will never return read more

Unmatched Artistry and Speed at AE: Artistic Encounter! I recently had the privilege of getting a full back tattoo from Billy Jack Gunther at AE: Artistic Encounter, and I am beyond thrilled with the results! From the moment I walked into the shop, I knew I was in the hands of a true professional and artist. Billy Jack's ability to create intricate, high-quality tattoos in a fraction of the time other artists take is nothing short of remarkable. What would normally take other tattooists days to complete, Billy Jack accomplished in record time--three times faster without sacrificing an ounce of detail, precision, or artistry. The speed and efficiency never felt rushed; rather, it was as though he was in perfect sync with the design and my vision. His attention to detail and mastery of technique truly set him apart. My full back piece turned out even better than I had imagined, thanks to his creative input and skillful execution. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Billy Jack took the time to understand exactly what I wanted and brought my ideas to life with stunning clarity and precision.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] If you're looking for a tattoo artist who can deliver top-tier quality with incredible speed, Billy Jack Gunther at AE: Artistic Encounter is your guy. His talent and passion for tattooing shine through in every line and shade. I can't recommend him enough! And if he's not around I can guarantee with the laid back, non-jerkish/nonjudgemental attitude of the entire shop there is bound to be one or two other artist that will be more than able to bring your desired pieces from dream to reality. Remember good work isn't cheap and cheap work is well... shitty. Go to jail if you want a full sleeve for 2 soups otherwise keep in mind whatever you're quoted doesn't include the TIP that your appreciation and gratitude should reflect...! read more

I came here last year with a group of people to get some piercings done. I got my nose done, there were two navel piercings and one helix. Overall it was a great experience. The piercer handeld each one with care and made sure we were comfortable. I don't remember his name but he was funny and quick. We came pretty late at night but the vibe of the place was very friendly and I would absolutely come here again. I'm not sure about how they are with tattoos but this spot is great for piercings. read more

Went to get my wife name I showed them the letter I wanted and this is what they did I was going to ask for my money back but I decided to leave review to save everyone the trouble of trusting them. I couldn't see the tattoo last night I didnt really care to I didn't think someone could mess up an easy name tattoo it was hard to see but I looks nothing like his drawing or what I asked for now I need to wait until it heals to get a cover up the first picture is wat I got the second is the style lettering I ask for none of the letter even connect or are uniform letters read more

Artistic Encounter - The ugliest tattoo I got - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

See all

I purchased a "get what you get" tattoo from Artistic Encounters during a fair in Lower Greenville. I came in and Elliott was available and made the design a bit bigger, adding shading and color. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It's my first color tattoo and I was nervous but he did an absolutely amazing job - it's perfectly feminine and beautiful, it compliments my other tattoos nicely, thank you![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Came in with a friend as a walk in, [[HIGHLIGHT]]the staff was so sweet, and so helpful and information we both got some small tattoos done by Isaac, he was so nice and very light handed, his work is amazing and always checked in on us to make sure we were ok.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]Very professional and in general a great guy to talk to. He gave us a way to contact him if we had any questions or concerns.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]I got my chest done after by Alex, he was amazing, made me feel so comfortable which this piercing can always seem uncomfortable or intimidating but it wasn't! He matched my vibe![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] This was my first time doing anything like this besides facial piercings and it was a 10/10 experience. Very clean, professional, informative and also gave me a form of contact if there were any questions or concerns. This definitely is my new spot, I've never found a shop so welcoming and fun. Truly had an amazing time. Yall are all the best. Please come here!! read more

Came here last-night to get matching tattoos with my mom and grandma. We are from out of town so we were looking for a trustworthy place. As soon as we got there they got our idea and began to draw it up. After they drew it up they got us all right back with separate artist. For this being my first spur of the moment tattoo..... what an experience. My artist was so friendly and held amazing conversation. Would recommend this place 100% read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Horrible customer service :( Came in on Saturday for a quote for 2 little words on my hand..... the man behind the counter told me the tattoo would fall off in 2 days, dumb placement and he didn't understand why I would want that and that it would be $250. Also yelled a very smart "have a GREAT day" on our way out ...... Took our business elsewhere, got an amazing tattoo and it was $80 at Refined Ink! Definitely try that place not this place. If he didn't want to do the tattoo that's fine but trying to scam is kind of crazy and you don't have to agree with what I want tattooed ???? read more

I was a walk in on Sunday night like 4 hours before they closed. I had a few ideas of what i was going to get for my second tattoo. The more i talked to 3 different people the more unsure i felt. The third person i talked to turned me to a guy name junior i think, she said he was good at black and white. He was quick about asking me the right questions and being on his tablet to find what i wanted. It didn't seem too difficult and said he could do it easily. He said he had 10+ years of experience so he said it would take 30 minutes for $250. As he started the tattoo he started to breath heavy and get nervous. Saying line work wasn't his main thing. Said he was on like 2 hours of sleep. Into the conversation i found out he was new to working in the shop and an apprentice as well. It took about and hour and half. I left $50 tip so 300 otd because he said something like, "just know, i don't ever tattoo people again that don't tip." Knowing that i was traveling and not coming back i just felt that pressure to tip. He also proceeded to try and book me another appointment for another tattoo before i left dallas. Im happy because i wanted this piece and he found it. Dissatisfied because i was hustled and he wasn't the right artist for this. I guess its on me for walking in late night, slightly drunk and unsure with $300 ::p read more

The painful memory of a Claire's gun jamming an earring through a non existing hole, stayed with me for years! Doing my research, and after building up the courage, I finally now have earrings!!! I also learned that you can barely feel what just happened... when done the right way! Feeling more feminine now! Thank you Artistic Encounter read more

Artistic Encounter - Bottom lobe ear piercing - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

I had Junior back in February. 2 walk in tattoos. Didn't take long to be seated. Great work, very well attention to his lines. The shop is expensive. But they've healed quite well. I just need 1 line touch up, but probably from my own after care. I recommend this shop. read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Tonight was an ABSOLUTE TRAIN WRECK! We won't be back! We've had a lot of work done here. My husband's full sleeve. We recommended at least three people to this location. A week ago we brought our sister to have a piercing done. We were setting up to do about $2000 worth of work in extending out a tribal tattoo- what happened tonight changed that. We set an appointment with Jeremy three weeks ago for stomach tattoo. It was two words, "Black Bull" that is it! Two lousy words across the abdomen. We got a call mid afternoon indicating that the appointment has been changed from 5 PM to 7 PM we come in from East Texas from sulfur Springs. We planned our entire day around this. Plus it's the day before Thanksgiving. We were already in Dallas when we got the call; basically they were gonna be LATE! We figured that they had holiday issues and were understanding of it. So we adjusted our schedule accordingly. We arrive at 7 PM. Work doesn't begin until 7:30-7:45. At about 10 PM, a group of people come in off the street all wanting piercings. About a half a dozen drunks-The shop has nobody on hand to handle the piercings. Jeremy had only finished outlining the first word "Black" and had not even started on the second word "bull" - HE STOPPED WORKING ON US to handle the walk in people wanting To get Prince Albert piercing and their Gooch pierced. We have horses that need fed, a dog in the house- PLUS drive back to East Texas 70 miles. My husband left- and I stayed to get the work finished. At 12:20- Jeremy RESUMES MY TATTOO!!! Meanwhile I had to pay early because they were closing out the registers. The cost to Outline two words???? 300.00! Yeah! 300.00 for a damn outline! The owner, Billy Jack was in the location- he knew or should have known what was going on. Instead he was on his cellphone talking the whole time. WTF! Our work DID NOT GET FINISH! We left without the shading being done! It was supposed to be a completed job! My husband was able to DRIVE from Dallas to Sulphur Springs faster than they could get the outline done. This is just unacceptable- no we won't be back! No we won't be getting my husband additional 2,000 worth of new tribal ink done next month! No we won't be taking our sister there next month for her new ink! No way! This tonight, was absolutely unacceptable and intolerable! You leave returning clients with unfinished work- when we had appointments! To handle "walk in clients" wanting genital piercings- people who walk in off the damn street! Nope! A big bridge was burned tonight with us- this was flat out unacceptable! This simple 2 word tat took 5 hours and they still couldn't get it done! Geezzz! read more

See all

A1 Shop!!! Micah had a little wait but as usual made me feel comfortable and was quick!

Wow wow wow. All I can say is oh my gosh, what an experience. My mom and I were searching for a spot to get our first tattoos, and I reached out to this place just to inquire. From the initial contact, all the way through, everyone was SO kind and SO professional. Got an appointment set up for the next day, so turn around time was great. Images were sent over and were ready as soon as we arrived, and our artist, Rick, was set up for us already. He just confirmed placement and size, and then got to work! Work is so clean, and he's incredibly kind and conversational throughout the whole process. Made us feel so at home and comfortable. Took great care of me, but especially my mom, and specially accommodated her and her disability to ensure we still both had a great experience. Will 100% recommend this place to anyone. Already talking about booking my next appointment. Thanks to everyone there, especially Rick (and Isabella, who I was emailing with) for an incredible experience. read more

I came in to get my belly ring pierced, and I had one the best experiences!!! I have had a belly ring before but it closed up a a few years back. That specific piercing was done at a different shop, needless to say I highly recommend Artistic Encounter!!! read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

micah pierced my septum crooked and too low and charged me $60 after the fact .... i know people are human and mess up but he could at least admit it looks horrible /: i had to go to a different place and get it taken out. also it was bleeding so much and i've never had a piercing bleed ... don't trust read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

So yesterday was Father's Day and my husband wanted a tattoo as his gift for Father's Day....so MY hubby gets what hubby wants :) We looked at all tattoo shops in the area but one stood out to me and it was Artistic Encounter. It stood out because of the quality of work shown on their pics. So I made the decision for us to have his tattoo done by someone here, plus the place looked clean, which is a huge thing to my husband and I. So we called and found out they were taking walk- ins which was perfect because we was kinda being spontaneous. We arrived and walked in and was greeted by two friendly faces at the front desk. We informed what we was wanting to be done and they told us that "Fabian" would take care of us. When getting a tattoo, one must think about what they are getting and who will be doing the work on them...they could mess up, or ... it could be perfect...but things like that stuck in our heads before having the work done. We was greeted by a sweet friendly face with a dynamic personality..."Fabian" He looks very young but when you talk to him he is full of wisdom!!!! This young man impressed both my husband and I so much during his tattoo session. He is ALL about his tools being clean, his area was very clean, organized and he explained all of the steps that he would go through and showed us the tool he would use as well to bring a level of comfort, so definitively eased our minds before he began. We was there for a well worth 3 hours...his music selection was extremely impressive! He likes old school everything...he's like an old soul, lots of music that had us both bopping and singing or rapping along! His insight on life is beautiful...it all begins with his foundation, his parents...his passion is doing tattoos but he also does it to help out his parents as well. I take my hat off to him I really do! Seriously I endorse my everything to this man, so if you want a bad ass tattoo with a wonderful Artist, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND "FABIAN" he is a perfectionist that is extremely detail oriented and that combination alone should say a lot!!! His specialty is lettering but he does a whole lot more too...so check him out!!! Thanks again Fabian!!! I will be referring people to you for sure!!!! 6/23/17 Update My husband called to ask about the care of his tattoo and some lady that was obviously having a bad day answered and was so sarcastically RUDE!!!! I wish her Boss could've heard her on the phone...BEWARE OF HER! read more

I was excited to visit this shop after reading the good reviews and viewing the tattoos posted. I came as a walk in with the aim of getting a tattoo to commemorate my late father. Unfortunately for me, I did not have a great experience. Due to length, I'll only highlight the most troubling aspect of my visit. I have over 12 tattoos, so I'm adept to the healing process. 80% of the artists I visited used Saniderm. I did not have any reactions to the product in the past, and am knowledgeable on how to use the product. My tattoo I got two weeks prior to my visit healed beautifully using Saniderm. When the tattoo was completed, my artist put over 3 layers of Saniderm over my tattoo and advised me to keep it on for 6 days. The following day I experienced discomfort which I assumed was due to the tattoo. On day 2, my discomfort increased and I noticed blisters and redness on the outer edges of the adhesive so I had to remove it early. I later learned it was because the adhesive was placed too tightly. In the days following, the irritation/blisters began to scar, so now I am left with scarring that perfectly aligns with where the adhesive was placed. I hoping that it eventually fades, if not, I may have to get a small tattoo to cover it. I've included a before and after of my arm. Would not recommend this shop. read more

Artistic Encounter - Scarring - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

See all

I first reached out to the owner, BillyJack and let him know I was looking to get tattooed here. Before I knew it, I had the most gorgeous floral sun tattoo I had EVER seen! I was looking for something that would match my crescent moon. (The moon was done at another respective shop). Last week, I returned for another tattoo. It goes to show, I found a new favorite shop! The only thing left to do is get some piercings. I checked out the jewelry and I'm pretty excited! read more

See all

Had the best piercing experience here, got 3 ear piercings at a time and now that they've all healed I plan to get a few more here. The piercer was super calming, knowledgable, professional and so kind! Super funny too, great prices and wait times for walk-ins! read more

My sister and I received our first tattoo from Colin on yesterday. The experience was great from the customer service to the full explanation of tattoo aftercare! Our tattoo was exactly what we wanted and we are grateful for the care and patience that we received from Colin! Thank you for a great first experience! read more

Artistic Encounter - Our matching tattoos! - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Worst customer service I have ever received in my life, I went through 3 tattoo artists here between this shop and their other shop. I got a leg tattoo done by an artist name Gabe after he took over for their previous artist I paid to fix my neck tattoo I thought the guy was a stand up dude, I liked the work he did on my leg, it was a half sleeve leg tattoo I spent $500 with him and also paid twice for artist encounters to do my neck because the first artist tried to come to my house and do my tattoo after leaving a deposit with him they had to switch me to another artist which is how I met this artist Gabe. so I left him a $140 deposit for my leg and tipped him. I scheduled an appointment then had a hardship happen, I let three artist know he said via text it's cool bro just get at me when you're good I said ok. I contact him now to schedule my appt and this guy puts me off don't respond back to my messages after texting him over 2 weeks. He responds with the date he can get me in and he lost his phone old phone then after never respond back, I send text being nothing but respectful get at me when you have a moment. He don't respond back at all, so I call the shop and this guy tells me to watch how I'm talking to him starts threatening me and his exact words steady calling me homie, as if he is mocking me. He is being disrespectful towards me when I'm just trying to complete what my deposit would cover. A tattoo session. if we were in person I would've been more offended, I'm a grown man and don't play like that. I've been nothing but respectful with him in this shop which is why I left a deposit with him after the overall horrible experience I've had to begin with. He starts telling me his other customer is paying him 1500 on a tattoos he's working on and he's helping manage the shop and helping his boss with tattoos. I tell him Yk what, you have my money already calm down and get back to me when you have a moment I'm the customer and you have my money and this is what I have to deal with thank god I have everything in text. So I wait almost a month and I still haven't heard anything from this guy. Finally I text him today and tell him I don't even want the tattoo or getting anything done by you again after this experience. He tells me he could refund $70 back of my $140 because I'm cancelling an appointment I've reached out to you several times and you keep putting me off not giving me a date or time or never returned my calls after we last spoke, I will never in life come to this shop again, they are very rude and unprofessional. read more

First of all Kyle is DOPE . His realistic form of art if everything. I came into the shop not knowing what I wanted and once I saw his art I was instantly inspired. The shop has a great atmosphere and everyone is chill and friendly ! 10 out of 10 , do recommend ! read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Dom Ransom!! Thats it. Kidding. But seriously. Dom was recommended to me by a friend of mine. I had a wrist tattoo that I liked but didnt love. And Dom hooked a sista up!! Added color, leaves and life too my tattoo. Dom is sweet, knowlegable, and just great all around. I walked into her shop plans to fix one tattoo and came out with two. Lol! Her enviroment is really cute. I will be back a million times more. The other artist that work there are really nice and helpful. The place is really clean and professional. read more

I went in here a couple of weeks ago to try and get a small tattoo. There was some poeple in the front but the counter girl decided to go and get me someone from the back. It turns out this person was that Dominique girl. She looked very upset at the fact that she had to come to the front to talk to me constantly rolling her eyes and just very unmotivated about her work. I told them that I did not want her to do my tattoo and she became very upset. All I said was that I wanted someone more enthusiastic and fun to do my tattoo, someone who at least would pretend to like their work. Anyway, they did not like this so I was told to go somewhere else. I was very unimpressed by the way they handled the situation rolling their eyes at customers because they don't want to work. read more

Dom Ransom is the literal best ever. She's the sweetest and doesn't make getting tattooed weird. She did an amazing job on my rework. I couldn't have picked a better artist to do it! I'll deff be back for her original art work. read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

See all

I went here to get a set of curated eat piercings and I couldn't be happier with them. The facility is immaculate, the staff is professional, patient, helpful and highly skilled. I got what I paid for and I am beyond pleased with their work. I'll never go anywhere else! read more

Came in yesterday as a walk-in for my belly button piercing. I did have to wait a while for the piercer to come back from wherever but I didn't mind waiting! The staff is super friendly and the whole studio is very clean. I was very very nervous to get my piercing (I'm very hesitant about needles) but Jeremy did not rush me and did not make me feel as if I was a bother. He gave me water and chocolate before and after since I started to feel faint. The process itself wasn't too painful and I really appreciated him making sure I was comfortable and felt fine afterwards. Definitely recommend this place! read more

Artistic Encounter - Cool & clean place! - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

I have been going to AE for over 10 years. I've always found Billy Jack, and all the guys and girls to be among the most talented artists; whether it be visual art or skin art, that I've ever seen. Whether you have your own idea; or need help designing your dream piece, all of the pro artists from AE can help guide you. read more

Artistic Encounter - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

I am very disappointed in the artist I found at this location A.R. She led me to believe she could accomplish creating my piece, it was something a little more different than her usual style however turned out to be too difficult for her. I waited 3 months just to be rescheduled and then canceled on. I am only happy I was able to get my refund back. Be sure your artist can accomplish what you are looking for and takes your time seriously. read more

I walked in without an appointment and was able to get a cover up tattoo. I had a decal with the concept of what I wanted. Chris drew out a design incorporating both a Hawaiian flower with the paw prints that I wanted. It looks awesome! Everyone was very friendly and the studio is very clean, comfortable and well laid out. I would highly recommend Chris! read more

Walked in to get a piercing on a Saturday night. The guy was busy tattooing someone, so I had to wait a while. Didn't even mind though because the atmosphere was so chill-- I really enjoyed the dope art hanging around. Once we got to piercing, the dude was easygoing and made me feel very comfortable. He didn't talk much, and made it a very quick and easy process. I was in and out in no time. Def coming here again for another piercing. read more

BillyJack is a beast!!! He did an amazing job on my arm. I went in thinking I was going to have a pretty cool tat on my arm plus get my son's name and birthdate done. He way over exceeded my expectations for the towers on the inside of my bicep. The lettering and spacing of my son's name was perfect and I couldn't have asked for it to be any better. Then he fixed up my existing tattoo of my unit patch (originally done very poorly by an artist in Dallas not affiliated with Artistic Encounters; cough**Dexter Borrowed Time**cough). I didn't think there was much that could be done with that tattoo, but BillyJack proved me wrong. I loved everything about my visit and got way more than I was expecting. Based on what I saw in my 4 hours there, I could tell that he ran a tight ship and held all of his artists accountable and would not accept anything less than perfect. I will only go here for my tattoos now and will trust anyone there to do great work! Love this place and can't wait to add more to my arm. read more

See all

I went in for a cover up barely an idea. Jade was so patient and kind; She brought my vision to life, free handed at that! Highly recommend this shop and Jade. The art is worth the price! read more

Artistic Encounter - I am in love a with my coverup by Jade. She was incredibly patient and kind. - Tattoo Near Me - Dallas, Texas

See all

Walk ins accepted! Credit cards accepted! One street over from Commerce. Walked and got my left nostril pierced, paid w/my card and left. The piercer was very kind, and made sure to give me detailed aftercare instructions. Easy peasy. I'm coming back again for a tattoo! read more

Billyjack is a master at his art. His shops make you comfortable and such a great vibe. If you want; line work, color, portrait, ir anything in between he has someone there to do it. I've had friends and family go to his shop that have the same experience and love their tattoos! Billyjack did all mine (6) including a cover up and an improvement on 1 that I hated and now I LOVE thanks to him. read more

Very clean studio! I took my sister for a spur of the moment piercing for my sister. The artist, Dom, was super sweet, professional and clean. We didn't set an appointment, just called early. They fit is right in. I'd definitely go back read more