LEE ROWLETT

My name is Lee Rowlett. I’ve been tattooing for 18 years. I specialize in black and grey realism tattooing.

Who or where do you get your inspiration from? I get my inspiration from anything and everything. Textures, shapes, lighting, and other mediums of art. Everything I see is a form of inspiration to me.

What advice would you give to someone about getting his or her first tattoo? (A tattoo virgin) Eat a big healthy meal before the session and start hydrating several days before the appointment.

What did your family and friends think about you getting into the tattoo business? At first, I believed people saw it as more of a hobby. Now they see how successful I am, and most are proud of what I’ve made of myself.

What would you say is your favorite part of the job? Everything. I love the ability to travel and always have a job. I love drawing and doing tattoos. I’ve always been obsessed with art.

What was it that initially sparked your interest in tattooing?

I was 14 or 15, and a friend’s dad owned a shop in the small town I grew up in. I’ve always loved to draw, so after school, I would go to the shop and help clean and draw in the back office. When I turned 16, I started my apprenticeship.

Was it hard getting an apprenticeship? How was yours? Getting the apprenticeship wasn’t hard, but going through it, well, that’s a different story. My mentor was an old biker; drunk, loud, and loved to fight. It was a chaotic upbringing.

Are there any tattoos you would refuse to do? (face, private areas, etc.) I don’t do any symbols of hate. Other than that, I’ll do most things, given you’re tattooed enough to get your hands and face.

Have you ever had a bad tattooing experience, and what was it? Honestly, other than really terrible spots to get tattooed, palm, for instance, I haven’t had too bad of a time getting tattooed.

What is the most important advice you can give someone new to the art of tattooing? Focus and work hard but also remember that this is the greatest job on earth. Remember to have fun and keep loving what you do. ✕

18 Years

Tattooing

Jeffersonville, IN Location

Independent Artist

B&G realism

Neo-traditional/stylized realism

Specialty @leerowlett_tattooer Instagram leerowlettbookings @gmail.com