Issue 21

Cover Girl

Nysa Rose

Artist!

Jlynn, Tara, Randson, Hornet, Omri, and Kandy

Conventions, expos, and more

Models!

Ellery, Kenzie, Brandy, CYD

Steve Azzara (RIP) President/Editor in Chief/MFIC Pamela Haven Co owner/President/Writer Matt Sellers Writer/Creative director/Editor

Contributors

Cypress Bates Video Journalist/Writer Santelmo (Saint) Vazquez

Cover- @nysa_rose Photographer- @dellamoredante Special Thanks to...

Daniel Kearney, Santelmo (Saint) Vazquez, Mark Lawrence, Shawn Alexander, Tommy’s Supplies, New England Tattoo Expo, Sellers Ink Tattoo, Sean Hightower, Walt Anderson, Carnival of Ink, The Most famous studio, Urbans edge tattoo after care. New England tatoo expo, DR. Rebecca perry

Pro Team

Lydia Bruno, Pammy Sellers, Pepe Carire, And Jimmy Dalessio, Ninetoes, Nikko Gould, Josh Paul, Mike Geyer, Tyce Johnson

Ellery-6 Jlynn-14 Kenzie-30 Tara-38 Nysa-50 Randson-58 Hornet-72 Brandy-84 Spotlight-92 Omri-104 West Plains-120 Homewardbound-130 Cruel Summer-138 Kandy-144 CYD-154

Ellery

photography :@gracesummersphotography Tattoo credits @brent.wilhelmi 6

model-Ellery Artzer

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Jlynn

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Artist-@thejlynnattaway Interviewed by-@msellersink13

Tell us a little bit about where you’re from and what was it like growing up?

I’m originally from a small town, Texarkana, Texas where I spent most of my life. I grew up having big dreams, but also not having family support. So most of those dreams were out the window at a young age. I decided I had to take life into my own hands and forge a path by myself. That’s how tattooing came about. I’ve now been in Shreveport, Louisiana for the past 8 years and I’m thriving!

Were there any artists (tattoo or otherwise) who influenced your style early on?

Early on in my tattoo career I had artists from my hometown that I looked up to like, Joel Wright and Jason Elliot. They inspired my older style of tattooing that I don’t do anymore but nonetheless they helped build my passion for the art and helped form me as an artist. So shoutout to the homies.

How long have you been tattooing for and has your style evolved over time? If so, how?

I’ve been tattooing for 12-13 years. My style has definitely evolved over the years. For the first 9 years of my career I strictly did color which ranged from neotrad, illustrative, and color realism. I had always been terrified of black and grey realism. Due to a few failed attempts early on. Now that’s really all I’ve done for the past 4 years, and I absolutely love it! It was the last thing I thought I’d ever be doing.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about tattoo artists?

I mean I think the most common one is that we’re all a bunch of heathens, criminals, and drug addicts.

Which honestly you can find that in any career. From my experience I’ve met some of the nicest, most down to earth and excepting people in the tattoo industry. Things have changed a lot even since I started tattooing.

What does tattooing mean to you personally?

Honestly, everything. It’s really all I’ve got. These days most of my clients just give me a topic and let me do what I want.

What more could I ask for? It’s the greatest feeling being able to create without limitations.

Have you ever turned down a tattoo request? Why? Why? Early on, never! Now days, I often to do. Not because I’m some prima donna or anything but because I want to be fully engulfed in the the subject matter that I’m tattooing. That’s how I feel like I’m gonna do the best I can and give the client absolutely all of me.

What are some of your biggest achievements in your career?

Just getting to the level I’m at currently, still being able to grow and being able to persevere through the storms. Also I’ve won some awards and been in some magazines which is super dope.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in tattooing?

I don’t know if you’ve ever seen the show “Parks and Rec” but there’s a character on the show named Ron Swanson played by Nick Offerman. He once said “you can’t half ass two things, you have to whole ass one thing.” And honestly that quote is part of the reason I’m still a tattoo artist. So all in all, to really be the best you can be, you’ve got to be all in or nothing.

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Kenzie

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Model-@tattoosbykenz photography-@inked_photography

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Tara

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Artist-@tarastats Interviewed by-@msellersink13

Where are you from and what was it like growing up?

I was born and raised in NW Arkansas and NE Oklahoma all my life.

Not a lot to do around here growing up so I had lots of time to do art. I have always been into different kinds of art but ever since i started tattooing it has been my main focus. I love everything about tattooing.

What inspired you to pursue tattooing as a career?

My husband. He was a tattoo artist when i met him then i later I decided that i wanted to tattoo. I never thought about becoming a tattoo artist growing up because my parents were so agaisnt tattoos. But once i started and they saw the art you could create they came around eventually. But ive always been artistic. Always had a passion for drawing, painting and all other forms of art.

How long have you been tattooing for and how has the journey been treating you?

April 4, i will have been licensed in the state of arkansas for 20 years.

Its been a great journey so far. Some ups and downs. I dont get to do many conventions. But the one that i did attend i did win a 1st place award for best neo traditional. Ive been to a few others but only ever tattooed at one.

Have you worked in multiple shops or cities? How has that influenced you?

Ive worked in a few different shops. Now i own the shop that i work in. I had to create an enviroment where the people that work there get along. But i have worked with some good artist that i have learned some techniques from. I pick little tips and tricks from people all the time. I am always trying to learn something new if it will improve my tattoo skills.

What’s been your biggest challenge as a tattoo artist?

My biggest challenge is working in smallish city. Around here there arent a whole lot of people willing to let you design the piece or give full creative freedom.

Have you ever turned down a tattoo request? Why? Yes. I do not tattoo anything gang related or racist. I also wont tattoo on a minors face or hands. I think you should be old enough to make your own decisions bef

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Nysa

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Model-@nysa_rose Photographer-@dellamoredante

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Randson

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Artist-@ rdtattoo_ Interviewed by- @msellersink13

Let’s start off with where you are from and what was it like growing up?

I am from Campina Grande Brazil, PB, but I moved with my parents to São Paulo when I was 2 years old. Growing up here was fundamental for my development; it is a city full of opportunities and challenges that shaped me greatly.

How did you get into tattooing, and how long have you been tattooing for?

I have loved drawing since I was a child and have always had a natural talent for it. I discovered tattooing through my brother-in-law Leo, a great artist to this day, who planted the idea in my mind that I could become a tattoo artist one day. I took drawing courses, honed my skills, and received my first tattoo machine as a gift from my wife, an encouragement I still carry today. I have now been tattooing professionally for 7 years.

Which artists (tattoo or otherwise) inspire your work?

The artists who currently inspire me the most include my brother-inlaw Leo (@leofavarink), my sister Ranna (@fromthesoul.jpg), Chris (@ primm_), Michael (@michaeljtattoos), Jeff (@jeffnortontattoo), Bruno (@btrad_), Raffa (@raffasantosart), Cristian (@kasasink), Justin (@ justinhartmanart), and also (@kennipoke).

How would you describe your tattooing style, and what got you into that certain style?

I am still developing my tattoo style, but I work extensively in realism. I would define my style as a mix of neo-traditional and black work because I enjoy combining contrast, details, and forms that convey emotion.

How do you stay inspired or avoid creative burnout?

I try to draw every day and have a strong passion for photography, especially landscapes, and I often visit museums for inspiration. When creating, I make several sketches of ideas in my mind and let them “rest”; when inspiration strikes, I select some to transform into final tattoo pieces.

What are some of your biggest accomplishments during your career?

One of the greatest achievements in my career was meeting Chris (@ primm_) and visiting his studio, @ the.grand.reaper, in San Diego, CA, USA. It was incredible to meet the outstanding artists working there and to witness one of them — my brother-in-law — tattooing my wife. Another significant achievement was having one of my paintings featured in the Alchemy exhibition, organized by @gurutattoo together with @zeroskateboards, which showcased prominent names in the tattoo industry.

What’s your biggest goal as a tattoo artist?

My main goal is to gain recognition among the top names in tattooing and to take my art around the world, turning people’s skin into true works of expressive art.

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Hornet 72

Artist-@hornet.eds Interviewed by-@msellersink13

Where are you from and what was it like growing up?

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I’m from Alicante, Spain. I grew up in a city by the sea, surrounded

by Mediterranean culture but also influenced by urban life. From an early age, I was drawn to art and creativity, and I was always fascinated by the graffiti I saw on the streets. I began drawing at the age of seven with my grandfather, started painting graffiti at twelve, and, almost by chance, began tattooing when I was twenty-one.

2. How long have you been tattooing for and how has the journey been for you?

I have been tattooing professionally for ten years. It has been an intense journey, full of learning and personal growth. I started out with a lot of passion, and over time that passion evolved into a way of life. Tattooing has taught me discipline, patience, and how to connect with people through art that stays with them forever.

How would you describe your tattooing style, and what led you to that particular style of tattoo work?

I specialize mainly in Japanese and new school styles, though I work in almost any style. Japanese tattooing attracts me because of its visual strength, symbolism, and ability to tell stories. New school, on the other hand, connects me with something more colorful, cartoon-like, and imaginative, where I can unleash my creativity. Ultimately, what led me to these styles was my passion for Japanese culture combined with my graffiti background.

Do you think tattooing is respected enough as an art form?

More and more so. Tattooing has gone from being something marginal to being recognized as a legitimate artistic discipline. That said, I still think there is room to grow. In many contexts, it is not valued on the same level as painting or sculpture, even though it requires equal, if not greater, commitment, because it is expressed on the human body in an irreversible way.

Have you participated in any tattoo conventions or competitions?

I’ve taken part in several conventions, both to showcase my work and to learn from other artists. The atmosphere is inspiring, filled with passion and respect for the craft. Competing is not my main motivation, but I do enjoy sharing, exchanging ideas, and seeing how tattooing evolves internationally. I have also served as a judge at the Brussels convention, which was a very enriching experience because it allowed me to be on the other side of the competition. It wasn’t an easy task, though, as there were so many talented artists that making a choice was far from simple.

Can you walk me through your process from consultation to the final tattoo?

Of course. The process begins with a consultation, where we schedule a meeting for the client to share their ideas. I guide them and suggest different ways to elevate that idea. Once the concept is clear, I move into the research stage, gathering as much information as possible from books, photography, and reading. Then I move on to the design phase, creating the most personal version of that idea.

Before tattooing, I review the details with the client and make any necessary adjustments, since I value respecting their preferences.

During the session, I pay close attention to every line and shadow, focusing not only on technique but also on the client’s comfort. The process ends with aftercare instructions, because a good tattoo depends as much on healing as on the artist’s work.

Often, it doesn’t end there, I stay in touch with clients because after spending so many hours together, a meaningful bond is formed.

What do you like to do outside of work—any hobbies?

Outside of tattooing, I love spending time with my family, which is a top priority for me. As for hobbies, I practice Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which helps me stay fit, release tension, and keep a calm mind.

I also continue painting graffiti from time to time and, of course, traveling and discovering new cultures—something that always ends up inspiring my tattoo designs

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Brandy

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Model-@Brandy.bug08 Photographer: Radiant Inc

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!ARTIST SPOTLIGHT!

Ash Sagara

Shane Kamen

Brad Anthony

Jero Garza

Dale Martin

Brain French

Scott Trerrotola

Joseph Jones

Josh Paul

Danny Mack

Shaun Monto

Zach Webb

James Majik

Malachi Green

Alexis Sin

Nikko Gould

Nicholas Grim

Chris Oppenheim

Blake Kinnamon

Devon Kemper

Chayla Pica

Ash Tattoo Rochester

Ginger Harris

Steve Myers

Bryan Matthew Ellis

Jason Ayers

Justin Schultz

Ashley Jades

Joe Capone

Christa Wagner

Victor Williams IV

Nathan Kinley

Vincent Vickers jr

Ryan Stratton

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Omri

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Artist-@omriamartattoos Interviewed by-@msellersink13

Tell us a little bit about where your from and what was it like growing up?

I was born and raised in Israel 38 years ago, in a small town Near Tel aviv. growing up was pretty standard, I wasn’t a good student and got in trouble a lot I was more into skateboarding and girls then school .

My first encounter with tattoos was seeing my older brothers tattoos growing up , but Tattooing was my saving grace , it gave me a sense of purpose and an environment I felt I belonged to.

What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?

At 14 I went with two girls to get a tattoo ,while trying to impress the girls I was with, I fell in love with tattooing , the atmosphere the music the conversations and the freedom the art form offered it was everything I ever wanted .

When I first got into it , I just wanted to tattoo , to call myself a tattoo artist , only after achieving that, The pursuit of being a Good Tattoo artist started , what could I to improve and grow as a Tattooer was all I cared about , and that has been my goal and still is .

Do you have any formal art training, or are you selftaught?

No formal training , but I wouldn’t say self taught I was lucky enough to have had a proper apprenticeship , when I was 14 I started In a biker shop , the owner sold me equipment when I was 16 but couldn’t teach to much as he was self taught himself . At 18 I got discharged from the army and I was lucky enough to have been offered a proper apprenticeship in the US at lucky draw tattoos in Atlanta GA under the mentorship of the owner Phillip Duke .

And tattooing has been a constant learning experience through the years .

How long have you been tattooing for and how has the journey been going for you?

I have been tattooing for 20 + years professionally And I couldn’t be more grateful to tattooing, the journey was long and definitely had its ups and downs but Through tattooing I got to travel the world and meet and work with some amazing artists from everywhere , Tattooing has given me everything I ever wished for

Do you specialize in any specific types of tattoos (e.g., blackwork, realism, traditional)? Tell us about it.

I specifically try to be Versatile, I love tattooing and I have spent the last two decades trying to study learn and work on every style of tattoos , when I started there want such a big demand you had to do what the client asked if you wanted to make a living.

Now days I truly enjoy each style , I definitely have an affinity towards Japanese, realisem and neo traditional but I find myself enjoying fine line , water color , trash polka and traditional .

I taught a seminar that I wrote in 2023 in the Toronto tattoo convention (NIX) called “Versatility in modern Tattooing” Where I talked about the similarities of the different styles of tattooing . and how by focusing on one style you can easily transition to a different as they’re principles are the same .

How do you handle clients who don’t know what they want?

By giving them time and space and being very confident in my abilities, I always say to clients , don’t try and design your tattoo or figure out how it’s going to fit or work on your body, that is my job just tell me what you would like to see on your body throw every idea at me , I might not use it all but we will create something uniquely for you, I like to say creating a tattoo is like a baby it’s a 50/50 process the clients ideas and wants and the artists expression experience and input.

How has the tattoo industry changed since you started?

The clientele , the artists , the art the equipment I would say in almost every facet of it , unfortunately like with music or any art form that is somewhat underground and niche. When tattooing became mainstream and fully accepted it lost some of its magic in the process , I feel bad for young Tattooers that what they deal with now days is chasing followers and likes instead of the art and respect of your peers , it sucks that most won’t know the feeling of traveling across country or to a different country to get tattooed by that one guy out there that does that style and learn from him while getting tattooed , now days it is accessible everywhere and everyone is doing similar work and follows a wave or genre .

But a good change I am happy for them that some of the unnecessary abuse is not there anymore , the equipment is not as hard to get and artist of different medium have enhanced tattooing a lot over the past two decades What do you like to do outside of work for fun? Any hobbies I’m a father husband and business owner so I am busy most of the time making sure everybody and everything is running smoothly , but I try to stay active with sports and the gym , and I’ve always been a fan of cartoons and video games since I was a kid so I still enjoy those when I can.

West Plains Tattoo Expo

West Plains Tattoo Expo & Food Truck Festival Makes a Bold Debut West Plains, MO – The inaugural West Plains Tattoo Expo and Food Truck Festival made its mark in 2025 with an unforgettable debut that drew in over 2,000 attendees across the weekend. A first-of-its-kind event for the region, this gathering brought together a diverse mix of tattoo enthusiasts, talented artists, and food lovers for a weekend filled with ink, flavor, and connection was held on May 30 th – June 1 st . Designed as a show by artists, for artists, the Expo emphasized authenticity, creativity, and community. The atmosphere was intimate, with a strong sense of camaraderie among the participating tattoo artists. Many described the event as more than just a convention—lifelong friendships were formed, and a true sense of family developed over the course of the weekend.

Artists stayed consistently busy, with booked schedules and walk-ups keeping boothsbuzzing every day of the show. The quality of work, the laidback yet vibrant vibe, andthe professionalism of the artists set a new standard for what a tattoo expo can be.Alongside the artistry, the Food Truck Festival brought mouthwatering local fare to thecrowd, adding flavor to the experience and giving attendees even more reason to hangout, connect, and enjoy the event.

The success of the 2025 show has already built anticipation for next year’s event, with both artists and attendees eager for what’s to come. With its artist-first focus and undeniable sense of community, the West Plains Tattoo Expo is poised to become a staple in the Midwest tattoo scene for years to come.

Stay tuned—2026 is already in the works, and it promises to be even bigger.

Instagram: westplainstattooexpo Facebook: West Plains Tattoo Expo BY- Ernie Bustamante 120

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Homeward Bound Tattoo Expo In March 2025, the Homeward Bound Tattoo Expo Continued to take its place in Tulsa Ok. Held at the Osage Casino March 21st - 23rd over 200 tattoo artists from all over the US were in attendance. It was full of tattoos, music, and entertainment. Special guests like Russ and Audrey Quinn, Bryn Beer, Sarah Fetla, Kyle Chaney, and many others battled through intense competitions. But nothing is as important as the friendship, fellowship, and comradery these artists share. Event promoters Danielle and Marceau Hicks are at the top of their game making sure every detail is attended to and artists are well taken care of. Artists get to enjoy this tattoo convention twice a year with the convention taking place each March and August. Be sure to follow the show on Instagram for more details about the show. @homewardboundtattooexpo BY- Ernie Bustamante

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Cruel Summer 138

Power Couple

Cruel Summer Pin Up Winner

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Kandy 144

Artist-@kandytattoos interviewed by-@msellersink13

Let’s start off with where you’re from and what it was like growing up?

I was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado, but I actually grew up in California. I spent part of my childhood in Oxnard before moving to a small town in Northern California called Woodlake. That’s really where life began for me—it’s where I discovered tattooing, and everything changed from there.

How long have you been tattooing, and how has the journey been treating you?

I began my apprenticeship at just 14 years old, and by 18 I was officially a licensed tattoo artist. My love for tattooing started even earlier, when I was 7. My mom took me with her to get a tramp stamp, and I’ll never forget that shop—teal walls, flash covering the walls. I told her right then that I was going to be a tattoo artist one day and even have face tattoos. From 14 to 18, I was actually homeless, and tattooing became my way to rise above my circumstances and not let my parents’ choices define me. Today, I co-own a tattoo shop with my husband. Tattooing truly saved my life.

You also perform piercings. How long have you been doing that, and what’s it like juggling both tattooing and piercing?

I started my piercing apprenticeship at 20. At first, it was definitely a challenge to balance both, but now it feels second nature. As long as I stay organized and manage my schedule, it all flows really well.

What’s your favorite style of tattooing, and what drew you to it?

My favorite styles are Cybersigilism and Realism. They’re complete opposites—maybe that’s just the Gemini in me. Cybersigilism feels very freeing; it’s almost meditative the way it flows so naturally. On the other hand, Realism is all about precision, and I find a lot of peace in following a reference and getting every detail just right.

Bold, heavy-line work isn’t really my thing, but these two styles definitely light me up.

What are some hobbies you enjoy outside of work?

I love creating digital animations and painting—whether it’s charcoal or acrylics. My husband and I also play a lot of video games together. But honestly, my favorite pastime is being with my four kids. Watching them grow and just playing with them is such a blessing. I’m also a huge baker and love making sweets whenever I get the chance.

Do you have any big plans for the rest of the year?

Yes! I have a few more tattoo conventions lined up, and those are always such a great experience. My husband and I also just softlaunched our own tattoo and aftercare balm called Monkey Balm.

It officially goes live in a few months, and I’m beyond excited about that.

What’s your favorite food, and why?

That’s easy—lobster. When I was younger, I used to dream about what it might taste like. Now being able to have it whenever I want feels surreal, and it still feels like such a treat.

CYD

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Model-@cyd_the.kid Photography-@jameserbacher

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To our beloved friend Steve Azzara your legacy and hard work will be rememberd and continued through your magazine and memories. We all think about you everday until we meet again ol friend.

Rip Steve Azzara Owner/ Founder / Mfic