Caroline Evans 7/24/25 Caroline Evans 7/24/25

Asbury, Autonomy & Abstract

Asbury Tattoo Convention is this weekend! Get out to Ocean Place Resort and Spa and say, “Hi” to Caroline, Casey and Koryn! Casey’s MBMC tattoo event is Weds! So come out and support body autonomy for women with a MBMC tattoo! Read about abstract tattooing in the blog below.

Help Us Help Women

Lately, we’ve enjoyed giving back to the community. Radiant Energy Tattoo has been donating to worthwhile causes, and while all donations are important, none is more important than saving lives. As a woman owned business, with the majority of employees being women, women’s issues are , not only at the forefront of our thoughts, but our lives as well.
This is our 4th year participating in the My Body My Choice Tattoo Flash Event. So far, the first year was our best. In 2022, we tattooed 11 clients and donated $1732. In 2023 & 2024, we tattooed less, donating $354 and $520 respectively. However, in 2023, we tattooed 2 clients in Jan. They took advantage of our year round MBMC policy. During the National Event in the summer, we donate all the proceeds from the tattoos, but the tattoos are available year round. So, if you get a MBMC tattoo at any other time during the year, we donate half the proceeds, our artists get paid for their work, but the shop donates it’s portion.
This year, we have 3 artists participating, that’s the most we’ve ever had for this event. Meaning, we can get more tattoos on more people than ever before! We are hoping to donate more than our top amount of $1732. Help us help women. Stand with us in support of women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and human rights. If you’ve ever needed an excuse to get another tattoo, (or your first tattoo!) the excuses don’t get any better than this.

**The Art of Abstract Tattooing: Breaking the Boundaries of Ink**

In the ever-evolving world of tattooing, abstract tattoos have carved out a distinct space where personal meaning, visual experimentation, and artistic freedom collide. Unlike traditional tattoo styles that rely on recognizable imagery (skulls, roses, anchors), abstract tattoos focus on emotion, movement, symbolism, and form over literal representation. They challenge both artist and viewer to feel, rather than interpret.
**What Is Abstract Tattooing?**
Abstract tattooing is a style that draws influence from abstract art, where the focus is on shape, line, color, and composition rather than realistic depictions. These tattoos can range from bold, geometric designs to chaotic, painterly expressions. Some incorporate elements of modern art, like cubism or surrealism, while others echo natural textures like smoke, water, or galaxies.
This style often leaves room for interpretation. A sweeping black line might symbolize grief or momentum. A splash of watercolor-like pigment may represent joy, chaos, or a memory too complex to put into words. The beauty of abstract tattooing lies in its openness. It invites emotion rather than dictating narrative.
**The Artist’s Perspective**
For tattoo artists, abstract work is both freeing and demanding. It requires a strong understanding of composition, negative space, and how ink behaves in skin over time. Artists often approach these tattoos more like a painting or improvisational performance than a stencil-based application.
Creating balance without symmetry, movement without a subject, and meaning without a message. These are the core challenges of abstract tattooing. Each piece is often customized, blending the client’s personal story with the artist’s visual instincts.

**Why People Choose Abstract Tattoos**

People choose abstract tattoos for a variety of reasons, such as emotional expression or storytelling without words. Abstract tattoos can express emotions that are hard to define in words or images and allow people to carry deeply personal symbols that don’t need or have a definitive explanation behind them. Because these designs are often striking, modern, and unique, the aesthetic tends to appeal to those who are uninterested in popular motifs or trends. Abstract tattoos offer something deeply individual.
**Techniques and Variations**
Abstract tattoos aren't limited to one technique. They may include:
**Brushstroke-style tattoos** that mimic calligraphy or ink wash.
**Watercolor effects** with gradients and soft edges.
**Line work and dotwork** used in nonrepresentational patterns.
**Geometric abstraction**, incorporating sharp shapes and negative space.
**Textural layers** that suggest motion, decay, or energy.
Some artists combine abstract techniques with figurative elements, like placing a realistic face amid swirling color to create hybrid pieces that straddle styles.
**Is Abstract Tattooing Right for You?**
If you’re considering an abstract tattoo, ask yourself what you want the piece to *feel* like, rather than what you want it to *look* like. The best abstract tattoos are created through collaboration between client and artist. Sharing your emotional or conceptual inspiration allows the artist to translate it visually.
It’s also important to choose an artist who specializes in this style. Abstract tattooing requires a different set of sensibilities than traditional tattooing, and not all artists work in this mode.
Abstract tattooing is more than just art on skin - it’s an emotional language, a visual experiment, and a testament to the idea that not all stories need clear outlines. In a world where tattoos have long told tales in recognizable symbols, abstract work invites us to feel first and define later.
Whether you’re looking to express the chaos of a transformative time, the calm of a lifelong truth, or simply want something beautiful that speaks in whispers instead of shouts, abstract tattooing offers a powerful, personal, and ever-evolving canvas.
*The tattoos illustrating this article were done by Caroline or Koryn.*

Caroline Evans 7/17/25 Caroline Evans 7/17/25

Fine Line Tattoos & MBMC

Read about fine line tattoos below. Don’t forget about the Asbury Tattoo Fest coming up next week. It’s being held in Long Branch this year at the Ocean Place Resort & Spa, 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch, NJ on July 25 - 27. Our MBMC 3 day event has turned into a 2 day event. Scheduling conflicts moved Koryn to Aug 2.

**Where Did Everybody Go?**

When **MBMC** began in 2022, there were *153* participating shops listed on their website, this year only 28 are listed. What is the reason for the drop in participation? You can speculate all day, but we have no real answer.
Of those participating, 18 are LGBTQIA+ owned and/or artists, 5 that are women owned LGBTQIA+ friendly and 5 failed to specify. Where are all the allies? Are women the only ones fighting for body autonomy? Where are the men who support feminine issues?
Radiant Energy Tattoo is the only participating shop in NJ for the 4th year in a row. Where are the other NJ shops that care about women’s issues? There are other female artists and women owned shops in Ocean County. Why have so many turned a blind eye?
Help us help women. Stand with us in support of women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and human rights. If you’ve ever needed an excuse to get another tattoo, (or your first tattoo!) the excuses don’t get any better than this.

**The Art of Precision: Exploring Fine Line Tattoos**

In the ever-evolving world of tattooing, fine line tattoos have carved out a distinctive niche. Characterized by their delicate strokes and intricate detail, fine line work is the subtle sibling of bold traditional tattoos. Minimalist in appearance but rich in expression, these tattoos have become a popular choice for those seeking something elegant, personal, and timeless.
**What Is a Fine Line Tattoo?**
Fine line tattoos are defined by the use of single-needle or small groupings of needles to create precise, hair-thin lines. This technique allows for extreme detail and subtlety—ideal for *minimalist designs,* *delicate script, botanical illustrations*, and *portraiture*. Unlike bold or traditional styles that rely on heavy shading and thick outlines, fine line tattoos are light, airy, and often look more like a pen drawing on the skin.
**A Style Rooted in Precision**
Mastering fine line work requires exceptional skill and control. There's very little room for error when working with such thin lines—any wobble or inconsistency is more noticeable. This style relies not just on the artist’s steady hand but also on understanding how skin heals over time. Because fine lines can fade or blur faster than bolder work, artists often place them in areas less prone to friction and movement, such as the inner arm, ribs, or back.

**Popular Designs in Fine Line Tattoos**

Fine line tattoos cover a wide range of subjects. Some of the most popular include:
**Botanical** pieces - flowers, leaves, and vines
**Micro tattoos** - tiny, detailed symbols or portraits
**Minimalist illustrations** -hands, moons, geometric shapes
**Delicate script** - often names, quotes, or dates in cursive or typewriter fonts
**Fine line realism** - subtle renditions of animals, architecture, or faces
What makes these tattoos especially appealing is their ability to look both understated and meaningful. They can be discreet and intimate, like a small reminder tucked behind an ear or on the inside of a wrist.
**Healing and Longevity**
Because fine line tattoos use less ink and trauma to the skin, they often heal faster than heavier styles. However, they can also be more susceptible to fading, blowout, or loss of clarity over time, especially on areas of the body with high friction or exposure to sun. That’s why proper aftercare, and touch-ups when needed, are essential.
When done well and cared for, fine line tattoos can age gracefully, softening into a subtle, vintage-looking etching over time.
**Who Are Fine Line Tattoos For?**
Fine line tattoos are ideal for those who want something elegant, discreet, and detailed. Whether it’s your first tattoo or part of a larger collection, the minimalist charm of fine line work fits a wide range of personalities and aesthetics. It's a favorite among those drawn to subtle symbolism, storytelling, and visual poetry.
Fine line tattooing is more than a trend—it’s a testament to the growing diversity and artistry within modern tattoo culture. This style proves that bold statements don’t always require bold lines. With careful planning, a skilled artist, and a bit of patience, a fine line tattoo can become a beautiful and lasting expression of your individuality.

Thinking about a fine line tattoo? Look for an artist whose portfolio shows a mastery of delicate detail and healed examples of their work. Precision is everything in this style—and the right artist makes all the difference. The tattoos accompanying this article were done by *Caroline*, *Koryn, or* *Casey*.

Caroline Evans 7/10/25 Caroline Evans 7/10/25

Tattoo Blog & July Events

Read the Traditional vs. Neo Traditional Tattoos Blog Pt 2 below. Don’t forget our upcoming events, first the Asbury Tattoo Fest, this year being held in Long Branch at the Ocean Place Resort & Spa. Come out and see Caroline, Koryn and Casey tattooing! Maybe get a tattoo yourself. The My Body My Choice Tattoo Flash Event is going to be a 3 day event at Radiant Energy Tattoo! We are the only shop in NJ that is participating, so check out the flash and support women’s rights by getting a tattoo! All proceeds are donated, so your donating to yourself as well as helping the women’s movement. Casey’s MBMC event is 7/30, Koryn’s on 8/1 and Caroline’s on 8/2. See our FB event posts for more info or click here.

**What Sets Neo Traditional Tattoos Apart?**

Enter Neo Traditional tattoos—the modern evolution of Old School style. Emerging in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Neo Traditional art builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, infusing it with new life, broader influences, and expanded creative freedom.
**Defining Features of Neo Traditional Tattoos**
·       Rich, Expanded Color Palette: Neo Traditional tattoos burst with color, embracing everything from pastels and jewel tones to earthy hues. Artists are unafraid to blend, shade, and layer colors for depth and vibrancy.
·       Intricate Linework: While the bold outlines of Traditional are still present, Neo Traditional tattoos often incorporate varying line weights—thick to thin—adding sophistication and dimension to the artwork.
·       Detailed Shading and Depth: Shading plays a crucial role in Neo Traditional design, introducing gradients, textures, and highlights that create a three-dimensional feel.
·       Expanded Subject Matter: The sky’s the limit for Neo Traditional motifs. While classic icons like roses and daggers persist, artists also draw inspiration from myth, fantasy, animals, portraits, and pop culture.
·       Emphasis on Ornamentation: Neo Traditional tattoos frequently include decorative elements—beads, filigree, lace, jewels, or ornamental borders—that add elegance and complexity to the piece.
**The Spirit of Innovation**
Neo Traditional tattoos are, at their core, a celebration of artistic innovation. They pay homage to the past while embracing modern aesthetics and techniques. For many, Neo Traditional art offers a way to express personal style through a blend of tradition and originality. Artists are encouraged to experiment, to push boundaries, and to reinterpret classic themes in new ways.
Photo: Flash by ivebeencalledmax on DeviantArt

**Side-by-Side: Traditional vs. Neo Traditional Tattoos**

To truly appreciate the nuances between these two styles, let’s compare them across a few key aspects:
·       Linework: Traditional tattoos rely on bold, uniform lines; Neo Traditional uses a broader range of line weights for added detail.
·       Color: Traditional is simple—mostly primary colors, little blending. Neo Traditional is vibrant, with layers, shading, and a modern palette.
·       Imagery: Traditional sticks to established icons; Neo Traditional welcomes a wider variety of subjects, often with personal or fantastical twists.
·       Detail: Traditional is minimal and straightforward; Neo Traditional is lush with detail, shading, and ornamentation.
·       Purpose: Traditional tattoos were often about marking identity, allegiance, or experience; Neo Traditional tattoos are more likely to be individualistic and artistic, serving as personal statements or fine art pieces.
Photo: tattoo by Bobby at Love Machine Tattoo shop

**Which Style Is Right for You?**

Your choice between Traditional and Neo Traditional tattoos comes down to your personal aesthetic and the story you want your ink to tell. If you love vintage flair, timelessness, and simplicity, a Traditional tattoo may be perfect. If you’re drawn to bold color, ornate detail, and the freedom to innovate, Neo Traditional might better reflect your personality.
Here are a few things to consider:
·       Longevity: Traditional tattoos are renowned for aging gracefully, thanks to their simplicity and bold lines.
·       Personal Expression: Neo Traditional tattoos offer more freedom for customization and elaborate storytelling.
·       Pain and Time: With their complexity and size, Neo Traditional tattoos may require longer sessions and more touch-ups.
·       Artist’s Specialty: Not all artists excel in both styles. Choosing an artist whose portfolio demonstrates expertise in your chosen genre is crucial.
**Celebrating Both Traditions**
Whether you’re a purist or a pioneer, both Traditional and Neo Traditional tattoos offer rich opportunities for self-expression. The artistry, history, and evolution behind these styles prove that tattooing is not just a trend - it’s a living, breathing art form. By understanding the roots and branches of tattoo culture, you can make a more informed (and meaningful) decision for your next piece.
In the end, the best tattoo is one that resonates with you, one that tells your story, complements your style, and stands as a testament to your individuality. Whether you choose the classic boldness of Traditional or the lush detail of Neo Traditional, your tattoo becomes a timeless work of art, connecting you with the past while expressing who you are today.
Photo: TL Casey, TR Rich, BL Koryn, BR Caroline

Caroline Evans 7/3/25 Caroline Evans 7/3/25

Upcoming Events & Tat Blog

Read the Traditional vs. Neo Traditional Tattoos Blog Pt 1 below. We have big upcoming events, first the Asbury Tattoo Beach Bash! All 3 female artists will be tattooing! I hope you made an appointment already! Plus, the My Body My Choice Tattoo Flash Event is happening nationwide on July26, but since we will be at the Asbury Convention, Radiant Energy is having a massive 3 day event! We are the only shop in NJ that is participating, so we want to make sure that everyone who wants a tattoo can get one. Casey is tattooing on 7/30, Koryn on 8/1 and Caroline on 8/2. See our FB event posts for more info or click here.

**Traditional vs. Neo Traditional Tattoos: Exploring the Art, History, and Evolution**

**A Deep Dive into the Enduring Legacy and Fresh Innovations of Two Tattoo Styles**
Tattoos have always been more than ink and skin—they are a form of self-expression, an illustration of personal journeys, and, for many, a badge of identity. Among the myriad of tattoo styles that have emerged throughout the decades, two particular genres stand out for their bold aesthetics and deep-rooted history: Traditional and Neo Traditional tattoos. If you’ve ever wondered what separates these two visually striking forms, or if you’re contemplating which style best suits your next piece, this blog will guide you through the art, history, techniques, and cultural significance that distinguish Traditional from Neo Traditional tattoos.
**Understanding Traditional Tattoos**
Sometimes referred to as “Old School” tattoos, Traditional tattoos are the very embodiment of the Western tattoo legacy. Their roots trace back to the early 20th century, flourishing especially among sailors, soldiers, and adventurers. Artists like Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins are synonymous with this movement, shaping what we now consider the classic American tattoo style.

**Key Characteristics of Traditional Tattoos**

• Bold Black Outlines: The defining feature of a traditional tattoo is its clean, thick black outline. This helps the design pop and ensures it stands the test of time as the ink ages.
• Limited Color Palette: Traditional tattoos typically employ a restrained color scheme, favoring primary colors like red, yellow, green, and blue, with little to no shading or gradient.
• Iconic Imagery: Common motifs include anchors, roses, pin-up girls, daggers, swallows, hearts, skulls, and ships. Each image often carries its own symbolism—swallows for safe return, anchors for stability, roses for love, and so on.
• Minimal Detailing: Simplicity is key. The designs are straightforward and focused, allowing for visibility and clarity even as the tattoo ages.
• Durability: The emphasis on bold lines and simple shapes was practical; these tattoos were meant to withstand time and weathering, ideal for those living rough-and-tumble lives at sea or in the military.
**The Cultural Legacy of Traditional Tattoos**
Traditional tattoos were, in many ways, a form of rebellion and camaraderie. To have ink in the early 1900s was to stand apart from the crowd, to align oneself with a subculture of risk-takers and wanderers. These tattoos were badges—of bravery, of love lost and found, of journeys both literal and metaphorical. Today, they’re celebrated for their vintage charm and historical roots, often chosen by those who want a classic, timeless design.

Caroline Evans 6/26/25 Caroline Evans 6/26/25

Summer is here!

Summer and tattoos go hand in hand. Both are colorful, fun and full of life. It’s when we can show off our tattoos in public! Don’t forget sunscreen and to reapply! My Body My Choice Flash Tattoo fundraising event is coming. We are still determining which day, or days, we will be participating since the national event is being held while we are at the Asbury Convention! Caroline, Casey and Koryn will all be there tattooing, so come out and see us!

**Summer and Tattoos: A Season of Expression and Celebration**

Summer is more than just a change in the weather—it's a state of mind. It’s a time of sunshine, freedom, and transformation. And for many people, it’s also tattoo season.
As the days get longer and the layers come off, tattoos step into the spotlight. Arms, legs, backs, and shoulders that have been covered during colder months are suddenly on full display. This visibility isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about expression. Summer is when people wear their stories on their skin with pride.
**The Season of Symbolism**
Summer tattoos often reflect the energy of the season. Bright florals, ocean waves, suns, bees, fruit, and celestial bodies are all popular motifs that embody joy, growth, travel, and light. For some, summer is a time to mark a milestone such as graduations, weddings, births, and vacations all inspire fresh ink.
There’s also a spiritual element to summer tattoos. The season represents vitality, abundance, and the peak of life’s cycle. Whether it’s a sunflower for resilience or a phoenix for rebirth, summer tattoos can carry deep meaning beneath their vibrant surfaces.
**A Time for New Ink**
Tattoo artists often see a spike in bookings during summer. With more skin exposed, people are more inspired to add to or showcase their body art. The mood is lighter, more playful, and full of momentum. It’s a time when many feel the pull to be bold—whether that means getting their first tattoo or committing to a larger piece.
However, summer isn’t always the easiest season to heal new tattoos. Sun exposure, swimming, and sweating can affect the healing process, so artists typically remind clients to plan carefully. A fresh tattoo needs to stay protected from the sun and out of chlorinated or salt water until fully healed. Still, for those who are mindful of aftercare, summer can be a magical time to get inked.
**Tattoos as a Summer Ritual**
For some, getting a tattoo each summer becomes a personal tradition, a way to check in with themselves, to honor change, or to commemorate adventures. It’s a creative ritual that marks time and allows people to carry their memories with them long after the season ends.
Whether you're basking in the warmth of your healed work or planning your next piece under the sun, let this season be one of inspiration, beauty, and self-expression.
After all, summer fades—but ink is forever.
Photo by Jessica Christian on Unsplash

Caroline Evans 6/19/25 Caroline Evans 6/19/25

Juneteenth, MBMC, Asbury

Happy Juneteenth! Read our blog about Juneteenth and tattoos. The 4th annual My Body My Choice Tattoo Flash Event is happening next month and we are still the only shop in NJ that participates. Don’t forget about the Asbury Park Tattoo Fest happening in Long Branch next month. Check out our socials to find out more about these events, or check back here next month!

**Why Juneteenth Matters in Ink**

Tattoos are permanent. So are the scars of slavery and systemic racism. When people choose to mark their bodies with symbols of Juneteenth, they are making a permanent commitment to remembering the past, honoring their ancestors, and celebrating the resilience of Black people.
Common themes in Juneteenth tattoos include:
Chains breaking apart, representing liberation from bondage
The Juneteenth flag, with its starburst and red, white, and blue design symbolizing freedom for all
The date “June 19, 1865” in script or Roman numerals
Portraits of Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, or contemporary Black leaders
Phrases like “Still We Rise,” “Free-ish since 1865,” or “Unbought, Unbossed”
Each of these carries layers of meaning—reminding the wearer and the world that Black freedom is both a historical milestone and an unfinished project.
**Tattooing as a Tool of Reclamation**
In the transatlantic slave trade, Black bodies were often branded and marked without consent. In that violent history, tattooing takes on profound significance—because now, Black people are choosing what goes on their skin, and why. Tattooing becomes an act of sovereignty.
Juneteenth tattoos represent more than a holiday. They are a reclaiming of body, story, and legacy. They say: We know where we came from. We know who we are. We know where we’re going.

Photo by Siednji Leon on Unsplash

**Black Tattoo Artists and Cultural Stewardship**

The tattoo industry, like many others, has historically been dominated by white voices. But in recent years, more Black tattoo artists have gained visibility and recognition, creating spaces where Black clients can feel seen, heard, and understood.
Tattooing Black skin requires technical knowledge, cultural sensitivity, and artistic skill. Black artists bring not just the technical ability, but the lived experience necessary to design tattoos that reflect the complexities of Black identity.These artists are not just technicians—they’re cultural stewards. They’re helping shape a visual language of Black liberation, one tattoo at a time.
**More Than a Tattoo: A Living Legacy**
To wear a Juneteenth tattoo is to carry history in the flesh. It’s a daily reminder of where we’ve been and a commitment to where we’re going. It honors the ancestors who never got to see freedom and empowers future generations to continue the fight for justice and equity.
Whether it’s a minimalist date or an elaborate back piece, every Juneteenth tattoo is a story etched in resilience, pride, and power.
**Want to Learn More?**
Follow Black tattoo artists and studios on platforms like Instagram (click here for artists we featured during Black History Month)
Watch documentaries such as **Color Outside the Lines: A Tattoo Documentary (2012)** and
**Exploring the Black Experience in Tattooing | Intersectional Ink** to explore the Black experience in the tattoo industry
Support events and flash tattoo days during Juneteenth hosted by Black-owned studios
This Juneteenth, whether you're marching, dancing, reflecting, or getting inked—celebrate freedom not just as a historical moment, but as a living, evolving truth.
Freedom is not given. It is claimed. And sometimes, it’s tattooed. ✊🏿

Caroline Evans 6/12/25 Caroline Evans 6/12/25

Father’s Day & Shrooms

Read our blog about Father’s Day and tattoos. Tomorrow is our Friday the 13th Flash Event. We are participating in a global hiding mushrooms event.

Game of Shrooms

In 2019, an artist named Daniel “Attaboy” Seifert, created a scavenger hunt for everyone who loves mushrooms and art. It went viral (fungal?) and is now a global event. Artists create mushroom themed art, sculptures, paintings, etc. and hide them somewhere in the community. Art enthusiasts go look for it. This event was created to celebrate the unexpected surprises life can hand you.
Caroline, Koryn, Casey and Melanie created these adorable mushrooms for people to find. They will be giving clues on Instagram. The event is being held on Saturday, June 14th. If you would like to participate, click here for the map and more information.

**Ink and Legacy: Celebrating Father’s Day Through Tattoos**

Father’s Day is a time to honor the men who have shaped our lives with strength, guidance, love, and sacrifice. For many, the bond with a father—or father figure—runs deeper than words can express. That’s where tattoos come in: permanent, personal, and profoundly meaningful. More than just body art, Father’s Day tattoos tell stories of love, loss, legacy, and connection between generations.
Whether you’re a dad getting inked for your child, a child honoring their father, or someone paying tribute to a father figure who made a difference, tattoos have become a powerful way to commemorate that relationship.
**Tattoos by Dads: Ink for the Kids**
Fathers themselves often choose to celebrate their role through tattoos. Some opt for:
Names, birthdates, or footprints of their children
Portraits or cartoon versions of their kids
Artwork drawn by their children, turned into tattoo designs
Symbolic imagery—like a lion and cub, tree and sapling, or watchful eyes
Coordinates of the place where they became a dad
These tattoos reflect the pride, love, and fierce protectiveness that often define fatherhood. They’re more than decoration—they’re declarations of identity and commitment.
Photo by Devon Divine on Unsplash

**Tattoos for Dad: Ink as Tribute**

One of the most popular types of Father’s Day tattoos is a memorial or tribute tattoo—something that symbolizes a father’s personality, wisdom, or influence. These tattoos often include:
Portraits of fathers or grandfathers
Handwritten messages or signatures from old cards and letters
Favorite sayings or “Dad-isms”—phrases he was known for
Symbols of fatherhood, like tools, anchors, birds, watches, or vintage cars
Important dates like birth, passing, or Father’s Day itself
Religious or spiritual symbols that reflect his beliefs
For those who have lost a father, these tattoos serve as both grief rituals and enduring reminders that love doesn’t fade—it simply finds new forms.
**Matching Tattoos: Bonding Through Ink**
More and more families are celebrating Father’s Day with matching or complementary tattoos. A father and child might share:
A matching quote split across two tattoos
Shared symbols, like arrows, puzzle pieces, or compasses
Heartbeat or sound wave tattoos from a voice message or laugh
Numbers or Roman numerals meaningful to their relationship
Getting tattooed together can become a meaningful ritual in itself—a way to create a shared experience and a lifelong reminder of that bond.

**Beyond Biology: Honoring Father Figures**

Father’s Day isn’t just for biological dads. Stepfathers, mentors, grandfathers, uncles, coaches, and chosen family all play vital roles in shaping who we are. Tattoos can honor any father figure who’s offered love, support, and wisdom.
A tattoo in their honor might incorporate:
Military or profession-specific imagery (if they were in the service, a trade, or a specific field)
A meaningful quote they lived by
Shared hobbies or passions—from fishing rods to guitar picks to chess pieces
These tattoos are personal monuments to the men who showed up, stood by, and helped raise us into who we are today.
**A Legacy Etched in Skin**
Fatherhood, in all its forms, is a journey of heart, responsibility, and devotion. Tattoos offer a permanent way to mark the impact a father has had—or the pride someone feels in being one. They become visible, lasting legacies, passed down like stories etched in skin.
This Father’s Day, whether you're remembering a dad, celebrating one, or becoming one, consider how a tattoo can say what words sometimes can’t. After all, love—and ink—can last a lifetime.
Happy Father’s Day. Here’s to the dads who leave a mark that never fades.

Caroline Evans 6/5/25 Caroline Evans 6/5/25

Friday the 13th & Tattoos

We attended Asbury Pride Parade and had a great time! We raised $50 for Rainbow Railroad and plan on participating again next year with more items to raffle off! With our Friday the 13th Flash day coming up, lets dive into the history of the date and tattoos. The Asbury Tattoo Fest will be happening in July this year and 3 of our artists will be in attendance! Caroline, Koryn and Casey will all be there tattooing, so come get a tattoo, or just stop by and say “Hi!”

**What to Expect: Flash, Fast, and Fun**

Friday the 13th tattoos are usually flash tattoos—small, pre-designed pieces meant to be done quickly and efficiently. They often feature black cats, coffins, skulls, the number 13, horseshoes, daggers, or spiders. Also, goofy or spooky themes like ghosts, tombstones, or “13” incorporated in creative ways.
These designs are intentionally simple, classic, and affordable—part of the tradition's appeal. It’s about getting something fun, impulsive, and tied to a specific moment in time.
Our Friday the 13th flash can be seen here!
**More Than a Gimmick: A Rite of Passage**
For many, a Friday the 13th tattoo is their first tattoo—a spontaneous decision made with friends, fueled by adrenaline and excitement. For seasoned collectors, it’s a fun addition to a growing patchwork of flash and a badge of loyalty to tattoo culture.
Tattooers often see Friday the 13th as a way to give back to their communities, offering accessible tattoos while showcasing their signature styles. It’s chaotic, sure—but also a celebration of the art form’s roots: fast, bold, and built on connection.

**Tips for Surviving (and Enjoying) the Day**

Arrive early – Popular shops can have lines down the block. We take appointments for flash day to keep the waiting to a minimum.
Bring cash – Many shops don’t take cards for flash events. We take cash and cards.
Be respectful – Tattooers are working hard, fast, and under pressure.
Tip well – That $13 deal doesn’t reflect the real value of their time and skill.
Know what you're getting – Flash means no changes, so pick something you’ll enjoy.
**From Superstition to Subculture**
Friday the 13th may be rooted in fear, but in the tattoo world, it’s flipped on its head. What was once a day to avoid has become one to look forward to—a chance to celebrate tattoo history, score a fun design, and participate in a tradition that turns superstition into style.
Whether you’re superstitious or just super into tattoos, Friday the 13th is a great reminder: sometimes the best memories (and ink) come from doing something a little spontaneous, a little weird, and a little bit magical.
Happy Friday the 13th—may your ink be lucky and your lines be short! 🖤

Caroline Evans 5/29/25 Caroline Evans 5/29/25

June will be Active

Between Pride and Juneteenth, Flag Day and Father’s Day, not to mention all the shop birthdays… June is going to be a very active month for us. Caroline will be at the Asbury Park Pride Parade manning the APT table and holding a silent auction of a blanket that Doreen made to benefit the Rainbow Railroad. Flash Day is a Friday the 13th flash day and you know what that means…client appreciation gift certificates!!! Brand new Friday the 13th Flash is coming next week! Everyone will be drawing a $31 sheet, a $50 sheet and a $100 sheet, arms and legs only. Happy Birthday to Doreen, Tom and Melanie!

**Ink and Identity: How Tattoos Celebrate and Chronicle LGBTQ+ Pride**

Throughout history, tattoos have been a powerful form of self-expression, rebellion, and solidarity. For the LGBTQ+ community, body art has long served as a deeply personal and political canvas—a place where pride, resistance, love, and identity are made visible and permanent. As Pride Month approaches, it’s worth celebrating how tattoos have not only mirrored the LGBTQ+ experience but have also helped shape queer visibility and culture.
**A History of Hidden Symbols and Bold Statements**
Long before rainbow flags adorned city streets in June, queer people used discreet symbols to identify one another and claim space in a hostile world. Tattoos played a part in this quiet communication. Some chose the Greek letter lambda, the pink triangle reclaimed from Nazi persecution, or the black triangle—once used to mark lesbians as "asocial"—as acts of quiet defiance and personal affirmation.
Over time, as the LGBTQ+ rights movement gained ground and visibility, tattoos became bolder and more colorful—literally and figuratively. The rise of Pride tattoos—rainbows, unicorns, slogans like “Love is Love,” or portraits of queer icons—coincided with a growing acceptance of queer identities in mainstream culture. What was once a covert signal became a proud proclamation.

**Ink as Activism**

Tattoos can also be tools of activism. A person might choose ink that honors the lives lost to AIDS, commemorates the Stonewall riots, or calls for trans rights. Some get tattoos to mark their coming out date, honor chosen family, or memorialize queer joy and resilience in a world that still offers too little of either.
During times of political backlash or anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, visible tattoos become acts of courage. A rainbow heart on a wrist or the phrase “Born This Way” across a shoulder blade can signal solidarity and serve as a public statement: I’m here. I’m proud. I’m not going back.
**Art that Tells the Truth**
Tattoos are more than decoration—they are declarations. For queer people, they tell stories of struggle and survival, of transformation and triumph. They mark heartbreak and healing, rebellion and rebirth.
As we celebrate Pride, we should also honor the artists and clients who use tattooing to write queer narratives on flesh. These images—etched in ink and lived in skin—remind us that pride isn’t just a month, a march, or a parade. It’s a lifelong journey, worn proudly, one line at a time.

**Tattoo Shops as Queer Spaces**

Tattooing has often flourished at society’s margins, making it a natural ally of queer culture. LGBTQ+ tattooers have carved out inclusive spaces that honor body diversity, respect pronouns, and center consent—often in contrast to more traditional or macho tattoo environments.
Queer-owned tattoo studios have become sanctuaries for self-expression, especially for trans and nonbinary clients. For many, getting tattooed is a form of gender affirmation: covering old scars, reclaiming one’s body, or aligning one’s exterior with internal truth. The tattoo process—collaborative, intimate, and body-focused—can be deeply empowering.
Whether it’s a minimalist rainbow or a full-back portrait of Marsha P. Johnson, every piece of body art tells a story. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, those stories are everything.

Happy Pride—and pass the stencil. 🌈

Caroline Evans 5/22/25 Caroline Evans 5/22/25

Ink and Honor

Flash Day is May 28th, check out the flash sheets and come get a tattoo! We are registered for the My Body My Choice Tattoo Flash Event this year! Come out and support women’s rights on July 26th. Asbury Pride Parade is June 1st. Caroline will be manning the APT table. Come out and say Hi! June 13th is our next flash event. Check out the flash sheets and get some gift certificates!

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