January 18, 2022 -

Today is the 30 year anniversary of the first day I gave a tattoo during my apprenticeship with Temple Drake in Bremerton, Washington. I opened my first studio, Ronin Tattoo Studio in Aurora, Illinois in 1999. My Second shop was Spenard Tattoo in Anchorage, Alaska in 2012. My third Studio was a private space, 2 man tiny studio from 2015-2018. Since then I have been at The Hole Look in Anchorage. Best of both worlds. Private Studio space inside of a busy shop where I can accommodate walk-ins between appointments.

I have also worked in New Jersey, done time in Florida (Fort Meyers & Orlando), a few shops in Illinois. Guest spots all over the place. Tattoo Conventions all over the United Sates, and worked one in Dublin, Ireland. Attended others in London, Barcelona & Prague.

The culture of tattooers and tattooees has changed dramatically in 3 decades. Tattoo “styles” are many with many sub-categories. Minimalism, linear, blackwork, pepper shading- all fun new trends in tattooing. The tech side of tattooing has absolutely exploded- machines and rotary machines, pushed forward with competition amongst builders and manufacturers has given tattooers equipment light years ahead of what I had available 30 years ago. Each new wave of new equipment makes tattooing more fun, precise, more capable, machines that are consistent and reliable.

A big Thank You to all of the thousands of clients that have kept boat afloat this whole time. Giving me an opportunity to create artwork on a near daily basis. The perfect “job” that caters to my drawing style. Thick and thin lines. Heavy Blacks. Simple color blends. Organic, curvy, fluid shapes that flow with the muscles and shapes of the body. Tiny designs to Full Backpieces, each comes with their own set of difficulties, and problem solving, making tattooing a constant never ending puzzle.

I am hoping for 15+ more years ahead of me. I have a ton of personal artwork I would love to get in the skin before I cal it quits.

Kevin Harden