GENE BUDOWSKI

I’ve been tattooing for over a decade now in MD. I specialize in custom large-scale Japanese and neo (modern) traditional. My goal for each and every tattoo is for it to last a lifetime. I was taught to be wellrounded and that I should be able to do almost everything that walks through the door. I pride myself in the fact that I take the time to draw each and every tattoo that selects me for their project. I have been blessed to be able to travel the country tattooing from MD, Philly, Florida, Vegas, and even Puerto Rico! ⸺ What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? At first, my family and friends were not about it! I had like 2-3 that actually supported me. Tattooing is for sure one of the hardest things I’ve had to endure in life. I thought about quitting many times, but I pushed through. No one starts off good. But if you set goals, hold yourself accountable, and seek the knowledge to better yourself. You will be unstoppable. We live in a world where knowledge is at our fingertips ⸺ Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) Yea, for sure. I don’t tattoo private areas or faces; unless you are legit covered. That’s kind of a way of passage thing. Too many kids these days are running around with only a hand tattoo or a face tattoo. Just looks dumb, haha. Back in the day, you had to earn those areas. We need to bring back integrity to this industry. Nowadays there are so many shops; you can just go to each one until you find someone who will do it… sadly ⸺ What do you think is in store for the future of tattooing? I think tattooing is going to keep evolving. It’s only been “legal” for about 30 years. Ink has come a long way, so tattoos can actually last a lifetime. Tattooing back in the day was more about street rep/ rand by the mob. So back then, the tattoos weren’t nearly as good. So, I can’t wait to see what the future holds ⸺ What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? The most crucial advice I can give to someone who is trying to get into this industry is three things. In order to succeed in anything in life, you need to first have goals, set them, and then crush them. Second, you need drive/motivation. You got to be hungry to seek knowledge from people/books. Get tattooed by the people you look up to. Nine times out of ten, they will guide you. Go to the library to get figure drawing books. Third, hold yourself accountable! Take constructive criticism, be adaptable, and CARE! ✕