Alright, strap in because this will be long but worth it. I am going to go chronologically. I had…read morebeen looking for a new tattoo artist & studio for a tattoo to document my recent trip to Italy. I had done research, as one should always do when getting something permanently put on your body, (tip for the kids that go out on a whim and get inked) and I came across Sorry Mama. The initial correspondence was via text with Raquel, the studio manager. Raquel was awesome. We had great and timely contact and I set up the initial date and sent a deposit to secure my date/time. I had to change my appointment twice, and Raquel was more than accommodating. I had uploaded ideas of what I was envisioning for my tattoo and sent them over to Raquel.
One week before I was set to get my tattoo I had an epiphany and decided that I wanted to completely change gears on the type of tattoo I wanted and messaged Raquel who responded in a timely manner and connected me directly with my artist, Eric/Raven.
Eric messaged back and forth over several days and he was more than gracious when I asked for a potential change. Eric sent me two versions of what he had prepared for me. Now let me say that had i wanted additional changes I feel that Eric would have made changes without any issues, but the images that he sent me were so flawless and impressive that I had no need to change a thing, I just needed to make a decision. The choice was actually easy as I wanted to stay true to the traditional Japanese Irezumi art of tattooing.
The day for my appointment came and I was so excited for it that I was constantly watching the time. I arrived on time and when I walked into Sorry Mama I was blown away by the vibe, the cleanliness and the overall esthetic of the studio. Eric came from the back and greeted me warmly. We spoke briefly and I filled out the appropriate paperwork and had my DL copied. This studio does things the correct way and is nothing short of professional.
I followed Eric back to his space and felt really comfortable not only with Eric but with the space, the lighting and environment. This tattoo was going to take two sessions due to its size and color. Could it have been done in one session, sure it could have been, but I really feel good about having it broken up into two.
Eric positioned the overlay and we looked at it and he decided that he thought that he needed it to be moved slightly in order for the placement to be perfect. I was really impressed with that because it showed me that I had made the right choice in studios and artist because it was clear to me how serious Eric is about his craft.
Eric got started and we took several breaks, just to stretch out, and six or so hours later we were done for the day. I left with the proper covering synthetic sheet to aid in the healing process as well as the proper balm to use once the barrier was to come off, 48 hours later.
I used the balm as directed by Eric and just couldn't stop looking at the artwork. Yes, it as definitely ART! The linework was impeccable and flawless. The healing process was actually easy. My skin wasn't hammered one bit and the whole process was painless for me. Now I realize that each person may have a different experience based on their skin, body placement and pain tolerance, but this being my third tattoo, the process felt great.
The final day approached and I confirmed with Eric, via text, and I was super stoked. I arrived at the shop and was greeted warmly, again, by Eric and had a seat while he got things prepared.
I had the opportunity to meet the studio owner, Leo. What a cool and chill guy. He was almost more excited than I was about the work that Eric had previously done and that I was so happy with it.
Let me also say that during the previous six hour session, which breezed by, the conversation between Eric and me just flowed. There were never any uncomfortable moments and we talked quite a bit about a range of topics. I learned of his journey in the industry as well as many personal things about him. I can honestly say that Eric is one of the most interesting artists and people that I have met. So Thank You Eric, you're amazing.
This session was not nearly as long but still over three hours. Breaks were taken, snacks were offered, and then I was all done. I spoke to Eric about my next idea and timeline and he was super supportive and confident.
Although I have only had two other tattoos, I have found my artist for life. I will refer everyone that I know, that wants a clearly defined and amazing piece of art to adorn their body to Sorry Mama and Eric or Leo. They both have different artistic styles and I have seen both of their works. I will not be looking any further for my future artwork than Sorry Mama.
If you are serious about QUALITY tattoos and want an ARTIST to help design and tattoo you then I urge you to take the step, contact the shop, talk with Raquel and get yourself in a chair!
