Wow! Where do I even begin with Chipper Harbin? From the moment I walked into his studio in March 2016 with a drawing of Fenway Park, I knew I was in the hands of a true artist. As you can see from the photos, Chipper didn't just ink a tattoo; he meticulously replicated my original artwork onto my calf. The detail is astounding, and it's exactly what I had envisioned. But Chipper's artistry goes far beyond simply copying. When I returned in 2017 for my next piece, I asked him to create something that symbolized my connection to my children and my home state of Maine. Chipper's process was so thoughtful. He took the time to really understand what I wanted, asking insightful questions about Maine and my kids. The result? A breathtaking design featuring the Maine Pine Tree, vibrant fireworks, and a radiant sunrise. The Pine Tree for my roots, the fireworks for my son (a fellow Fourth of July enthusiast!), and the sunrise for my daughter, whose childhood was filled with "You are my Sunshine." It was perfect - a deeply personal and meaningful piece brought to life beautifully. Beyond these custom creations, Chipper also masterfully completed the color work on my left sleeve, taking a design from another artist and truly making it sing. And now, I'm thrilled to be collaborating with him on my right sleeve. What truly sets Chipper apart is not just his exceptional talent but also his incredible personality. The hours spent getting tattooed by him have felt like building a genuine friendship. We've shared stories, discussed his artistic vision, and explored my dreams for each piece. Chipper has a remarkable ability to take my sometimes vague ideas and transform them into stunning works of art on my skin. Chipper Harbin is more than just a tattoo artist; he's a visionary, a skilled craftsman, and a wonderful human being. If you're looking for a tattoo that is not only expertly executed but also deeply meaningful and personal, look no further. Five stars simply aren't enough! I'm already looking forward to many more hours in his chair. read more

Getting a tattoo was a huge decision for me, and I put a ton of research into the process. During that research, I came across Chipper's work and I knew that this was the guy I wanted to do my first tattoo. His style is unique and instantly recognizable, and as an artist myself, I knew I wanted someone who understood the artistic mindset and was not just another tattoo artist. We spoke several times leading up to the tattoo appointment and he was extremely helpful and understanding in working with me to get exactly what I wanted from the tattoo experience. Not only is he a great tattoo artist, but the 6 hours I spent with him flew by because of his awesome demeanor. He was easy to talk to and kept things light and comfortable. His new private studio is definitely a big plus for first timers and allowed some privacy that other places just can't offer. Chipper truly is an artist and a storyteller and wants to match your vision as much as possible, while maintaining his own artistic integrity and style. I couldn't recommend anyone higher than Chipper! read more

From the moment I walked through the door Chipper made me feel right at home, while I filled out some of the paper work he made a fresh cup of coffee as we discussed placement and color ideas along with non related things like music and what I did for work. Throughout the session he walked me through every idea and step and his vision to make sure we were on the same page. He's a fantastic artist with a truly unique style and cares immensely about creativity, originality, and making you a part of his world of tattooing. I went to Chip for this reason, he offers something new and puts a tattoo on your body that both you and him will are proud of. He continued to follow up after the session during the healing process with the same excitement and care he started with. He will be seeing me again and I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great tattoo artist. -J read more

Chipper has been a complete jewel to work with. I have been following his work on Instagram for awhile and finally decided to book a tattoo for an idea I had. I emailed him to start the process rolling and he has been the most professional, courteous, and genuinely awesome person to work with. He truly cares about customer experience and really understands how to meet and EXCEED customer needs. From the first email until I left his chair, he was very invested in my experience. During the tattoo itself, Chipper was efficient, friendly, and really masterful as his craft. It's very apparent he loves his art and his work and he conveys that pride into the piece you walk away with. I am so, so thankful that I live in the same city as Chipper and I now have a beautiful piece of his artwork forever. If you are on the fence, please book with him now. You will not regret it! read more

Chipper did an amazing job on my tattoo. I had been wanting to get a tattoo of a variation of Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree bark, but had a hard time finding someone that could complete it with the style I had in mind. I came across Chippers name, reading an article on Reddit about the best artists in Nashville, and his name came up several times. After seeing his work, I knew he was the guy! I felt so good about picking him to do my tattoo, that I just let him do what he wanted. Told him I wanted it to be somewhat abstract, but that I trusted him to do what he felt was best. I am so glad I did, because my tattoo exceeded all the expectations I ever had. I love it so much!! Not to mention, he was great to talk to, and overall a genuinely nice guy. I would recommend him to anyone. Cant wait to get more work done by Chipper! read more

I found Chip while I was living in Atlanta back in 2014. It was not a tough decision to decide to make the 5 hours trip to go see him once I saw his work online. Fast forward to now, 5 years later and I now live in California and Chip moved into his own private Studio within East Tattoo Collective. I made the trip back to Atlanta for work and once again, I snuck away for a day and made another trip to see Chip for more work because I trust his work wholeheartedly. The quality of his work is unmatched and once you get to talking to him, you will find out for yourself that he is SO amazing to work with. Make an appointment now if this is the style of work you are looking for, you will not be disappointed. I will continue to work with Chip for as long as I have space on my body and projects in mind! ! read more

After a not perfect experience at a tattoo shop in my hometown of Clarksville, I contacted Chipper to improve my existing tattoo. From the beginning he knew exactly what I wanted. He even used the word "dainty," which totally described the look I desired. Chipper got to know me and my tattoo buddy before he started, telling us his history in tattooing. He listened to my suggestions while making his own, too. He added and added to my tattoo until it was perfect. He followed up soon afterwards, and answered my questions immediately when I had thoughts/questions a week in. Almost 3 weeks later I am totally loving my ink! I highly recommend Chipper for the experience, artwork and color you can't find anywhere else...5 stars! read more

I was referred to Chipper by a few people whose ink I absolutely love. He is an amazing artist and a very fun guy. His shop is clean and comfortable, his location is convenient and his demeanor is fantastic. Having been my first tattoo experience, I found Chipper to be considerate and careful, he definitely wanted me to have a great first tattoo! I thoroughly enjoyed the time spent there. The conversation was interesting and just distracting enough to keep my mind off the pain (which was negligible.) Chipper let me choose the music, and dictate the room temperature. He is super accommodating. I am already booking my second appointment. I will hopefully have a nice collection of Chipper's art soon! :-) read more

I've been bragging about Chipper for years now, so this is my chance to share it publicly. Chipper is a rare breed of an artist soul with seasoned professionalism. I've had three sessions with him so far, and every one of them was memorable. It's such a delight to step out of a session with the feeling that your story was told well in your newly crafted work of art on your body. It almost doesn't need mentioning at this point, but the quality of the actual tattoo itself is world class as well. It always feels very personal and unique. Chipper is not only professional and quick and communication, he's also a genuinely good hang while you're getting your tattoo done. Can't recommend enough. read more

Chipper does amazing work and is great to work with! Made us feel very comfortable. Great sense of humor. Very respectful. My wife and I got some watercolor work done with an anchor and coordinates where we were married. He made sure we were in love with our tats the whole time. We both absolutely love them both. I highly recommend him to anyone coming to Nashville wanting some fresh ink... I'm already thinking we need to plan another trip to get another tat I have in mind done by him! He is just getting started in his new space at East Tattoo Collective (was at Safe House). Space was nice. He even made sure we were good with the temp of the room we were in. read more

If you're looking for a watercolor tattoo, Chipper is your guy. I have zero creativity, he was able to create what I wanted and made it so much better than I expected. Of course, I had high expectations after seeing his work but it's so much better than I hoped for. The studio was clean and everyone was nice and professional. Chipper was fun to work with and chatted through the whole process. If you are having art placed on your body forever make sure to go with the best and chipper is by far the best in Nashville! When I need another paw print added as these are my dogs actual prints, I will definitely be calling him for the appointment! read more

Chipper is an amazing artist with vision combined with great listening skills. I had an incredible session with him. He has deep intuition and helped me design a tattoo of that reflected the meaning and symbolism and significance that I was going for. His skills in watercolor tattoos are unique and rare, he's been ranked as a top tattoo artist in the nation in the world and yet during my appointment I felt listen to, he acted as if my small arm tattoo was important and meaningful to him, and he was very sincere. The entire experience was positive, inspirational, and I highly recommend him as both an artist and an overall great person. read more

Chipper understands that there is more to tattooing than making great art. He recognizes that customer service is central to his work, and you're made aware of his hospitality and personability the minute you walk into the shop. Chipper is warm and welcoming, friendly and unpretentious. His incredible artwork is only elevated by his down-to-earth personality. His space is clean, his attitude is professional, and you won't find an artist doing better abstract/color work in the area. He knows what he's doing, be open to his suggestions, trust his creative vision, and you'll wind up with a piece of art better than you ever imagined. read more

I spent months trying to find an artist who did the style I was looking for and waited months after finding him to make the dive and get my first tattoo. He did an incredible job with my first, a beautiful ginkgo piece, so when I wanted to add to it, I went back to him at his new, private place in East. He placed a note from one of my patients perfectly to fit in with the original piece. Chipper is very friendly and professional, and he plays great music and provides great conversation. I've recommended him to friends and had friends recommend him to me prior to my first because they've all had great experiences too! read more

I had an old tattoo I needed to get covered up. I contacted Chip because a friend of mine went to him a few years ago and he did a great job for her. The process to make an appointment was easy and he was very open to what I wanted. The day of, we met up and he helped me tweak my ideas and gave me good insights on what would look the best and hold up over time. He was fun to talk with while he worked and the end result is beautiful! I have been stopped multiple times and complimented on it. I'm very satisfied with the whole experience and would absolutely go to him again! read more

The best in the business. I've done 3 sessions with Chipper over the last 4 years and each piece ended up exceeding what I could have imagined. He has a unique way of taking ideas and bringing them to life visually while adding unique twists along the way. I always have a high level of confidence that he will create an exceptional piece of art that tells a story that I can enjoy forever. Above the actual artwork, Chipper is professional and a humble and kind human, I always enjoy his company and conversation. Looking forward to several future sessions with him! read more

Came to Nashville for my Anniversary. Researched local tattoo artists for my wife and I for a month or so before arrival and came across Chipper. He did an amazing job and my tat is more than I could have asked for. He has a rad personality and really makes you feel like your old friends. I am sure there will be more trips to Nashville for tattoos from this pro! Highly recommend him to anyone! The watercolor work you did, still amazes me! Thanks again! If you are in Nashville and looking for a tattoo-check out Chipper Harbin- you will leave amazed! read more

Had a great experience this week getting a tattoo with Chipper. I have been following him on Instagram for a few years since I had a couple of friends get tattoos from him. I love his style and the watercolor look he puts into a lot of his pieces. He fit me into his schedule while I was on Nashville for vacation, which I greatly appreciate. He was personable, understanding and took all of my ideas and incorporated it into a beautiful tattoo. His space was relaxing and he helped answer all the questions I had. read more

Chipper made my first tattoo an experience more than just body art; a homely manner and respectful yet fun-poking demeanor had me comfortable and ready to get started. His talent is undeniable and his style is unique all the while keeping your preferences of the tattoo in mind. If I were to continue to get tattoos, they would most likely be from him. The workspace was eclectic and enjoyable as well, fitting for the artistry there. Tattoo care instructions were simple and easy to follow. Well worth it. read more