Caroline Evans 8/14/25 Caroline Evans 8/14/25

Complimentary Tattoos & Caroline’s 27th Anniversary

Next week, Caroline will celebrate her 27th anniversary as a tattoo artist! We will celebrate with a Live Q&A on both tiktok and Instagram! 7pm on Weds, Aug 20th.

Flash Day is coming up, check out the new flash and make an appointment! We continue our article series below, read about how complimentary tattoos are trending.

**The Art of Connection: Complementary and Matching Tattoos**

Tattoos have always been a deeply personal form of self-expression, but when two people share ink, it becomes something more. It becomes a living, permanent symbol of connection. Complementary and matching tattoos are a unique way for friends, family members, or partners to express their bond. While the idea might seem simple, two people get the same design, the meaning often runs far deeper.
**Matching Tattoos: Two Halves of One Story**
Matching tattoos are often identical, symbolizing unity and shared experience. These can be minimalist like identical hearts, initials, or dates; or highly detailed such as the same portrait or intricate design. The message is straightforward: we are in this together.
·       Popular Choices: Infinity symbols, anchors, identical flowers, or shared quotes.
·       Symbolism: Unity, loyalty, and shared identity.

**Complementary Tattoos: Different, but Connected**
Complementary tattoos take the concept further, using two designs that only make sense together. These might be halves of a whole like a sun and moon, lock and key, or puzzle pieces; or designs that tell a story when side by side. They honor individuality while highlighting a shared connection.
·       Popular Choices: Yin and yang, matching animals, constellations, or two halves of an image.
·       Symbolism: Balance, harmony, and the beauty of differences.

**Why People Choose Them**
The appeal of complementary and matching tattoos lies in their dual nature. They are both personal and shared. People often choose them to mark a milestone (friendship anniversaries, relationships, or family events), honor loved ones who live far apart, or celebrate survival through a shared challenge.

**Considerations Before Committing**

Since tattoos are permanent, it’s important to choose a design that can stand on its own even if life changes. A design that still holds meaning individually will ensure the tattoo remains meaningful years down the road. Placement is also key. Many choose wrists, ankles, or forearms so the tattoos can be seen together easily.
**Creative Ideas for Complimentary and Matching Tattoos**
·       Sun and moon – representing balance, or opposing halves - light and dark, or day and night
·       Puzzle Pieces – showing that you fit perfectly together
·       Heartbeat & Heart – one wears the heartbeat line and the other the heart it belongs to
·       Anchor and wheel – for steadying each other while navigating life
·       Birds in flight – one bird flying toward the other’s branch or nest
·       Lock & Key – symbolizing trust and emotional security
·       Wave & Mountain – celebrating differences and unity at the same time
·       Matching Coordinates – the location of here you met, married or shared a special moment
·       Flame & Lantern – one carries the light, the other the vessel
·       Split Quotes – each wears half of a phrase that becomes whole when read together
  **The Lasting Impact**
Whether perfectly matched or cleverly complementary, these tattoos go beyond simple body art, they serve as a constant reminder of a bond worth celebrating. In the end, they’re not just ink on skin; they’re a story you carry with you, forever intertwined with someone else’s. The tattoos featured in this blog post were done by Caroline. All of our artists love matching tattoos and they can help your group design something you all will love.

Caroline Evans 8/7/25 Caroline Evans 8/7/25

What’s Trending?

Wildwood is happening this weekend!!! Caroline is hoping to see you there. Flash day is coming up on Aug 27th, the new flash is posted. Go check it out!

What’s Trending?

Keeping up with trends is important in the tattoo industry. Google says this is a list of what’s trending in 2025:

Popular tattoo trends include minimalist and fine line designs, hyperrealistic micro tattoos, and a resurgence of large back pieces and bold colors. Other trends include color blocking and abstract shapes, nostalgic Y2K and pop culture references, and spiritual and symbolic designs, finger and spine tattoos, inner ear and helix tattoos, blackwork and complimentary tattoos. Over the next few weeks, we’ll look at these trends in more detail.

**Ink on the Edge: Inner Ear and Helix Tattoos**

In the ever-evolving world of body art, tattoo placement is just as much a statement as the design itself. While traditional areas like arms, backs, and legs still reign, more subtle and intimate placements are gaining popularity with none more intriguing than the inner ear and helix. These tiny canvases offer a unique blend of boldness and delicacy, drawing attention in the most unexpected way.
**What Are Inner Ear and Helix Tattoos?**
Inner ear tattoos are designs placed in the bowl of the ear (concha) or on the surrounding inner ear cartilage. Helix tattoos, on the other hand, are inked along the upper outer rim of the ear, where cartilage piercings are commonly seen. These areas are often mistaken for being too small or complex for tattooing, but skilled artists have found creative ways to use these tight spaces for stunning micro-tattoos.
**Why Choose This Placement?**
**1. Subtlety with Style:**
Inner ear and helix tattoos are small enough to be discreet yet eye-catching. They can peek out from behind hair or under a hat, offering a private kind of flair like a secret you can share or hide.
**2. Alternative to Piercings:**
These tattoos offer a decorative alternative to jewelry. Florals, mandalas, stars, dots, and even geometric patterns mimic the look of metal and gemstone pieces without the upkeep or healing issues associated with piercings.
**3. Expression in Minimalism:**
In a world leaning more toward minimalism and fine line work, these tattoos allow for elegant and intricate designs without taking up a large area. They're perfect for those who want to express themselves through body art without committing to a large piece.

**Design Considerations**

Because of the small, curved nature of the ear, designs need to be carefully planned. Common motifs include: tiny florals (like sprigs of lavender or vines), geometric lines or dotwork, celestial elements (moons, stars, suns), minimalist symbols or script, mandalas and tribal-inspired patterns, black ink is typically favored for longevity and clarity, though muted pastels and watercolor washes can also be used for a softer effect.
**Pain and Healing**
Let’s be honest, tattoos on the ear *hurt*. The ear has thin skin and a lot of nerve endings, especially in the cartilage, so expect a sharp, pinch-like sensation. However, because these tattoos are small, the pain is usually brief and manageable.
Healing time is relatively quick (2–4 weeks), but the ear’s shape makes aftercare slightly tricky. Avoid sleeping on the tattooed side, keep it clean and dry, and be careful with headphones or hats during the healing period.
**The Artist Matters**
Precision is key with inner ear and helix tattoos. Choose an experienced tattoo artist familiar with small, detailed work and confident working on complex surfaces. Not every artist will offer ear tattoos, so be sure to ask if it's something they’re comfortable doing. Both Caroline and Koryn have the talent and expertise to create beautiful, lasting ear tattoos.
Whether you're replacing piercings, celebrating a moment, or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind design, Radiant Energy Tattoo is looking forward to working with you to express your individuality in this beautifully understated way.

Caroline Evans 7/31/25 Caroline Evans 7/31/25

Wildwood and Watercolor

Wildwood convention is coming up NEXT WEEK! So, if you missed Asbury or didn’t get enough Tattoo Beach Bash, head on down the GSP Aug 8th for another weekend of summer tattoo fun! Caroline will be alone this time, so make sure you stop by and say “Hi!” Koryn and Caroline are having their MBMC Tattoo Event this Saturday! There are only a couple spots left, so call/text 732-503-8469 to make an appointment and support women’s rights!

**A Splash of Art: The Beauty of Watercolor Tattoos**

Watercolor tattoos have captivated the tattoo world with their vibrant, flowing colors and painterly aesthetic. Inspired by the brushstrokes and bleeding pigments of watercolor paintings, this style breaks away from traditional tattoo rules to create pieces that feel spontaneous, emotional, and alive. Whether bold and bright or soft and dreamy, watercolor tattoos are perfect for those who want a tattoo that looks like a living work of art.

**What Is a Watercolor Tattoo?**
Watercolor tattoos mimic the look of watercolor paintings featuring fluid gradients, soft edges, drips, splashes, and non-traditional shading. Artists use layered tones, color washes, and negative space to replicate the transparency and movement of watercolor pigments on paper.
Unlike most tattoo styles that use strong black outlines, many watercolor tattoos use minimal or no linework, giving the impression that the ink has been painted directly onto the skin.

**Techniques Behind the Style**
Creating a successful watercolor tattoo requires a skilled artist who understands both color theory and the way ink behaves in skin. Techniques often include:
**Layering soft washes** of color to create a gradient effect
**Controlled ink splatter and drips** for a spontaneous feel
**Color blending** to mimic pigment bleeding
**Minimal black outlining** or anchoring elements to help the tattoo age well
Since watercolor tattoos often lack the heavy black outlines that help traditional tattoos stay sharp over time, artists will sometimes include **hidden structure or subtle shading** to reinforce the design’s longevity.

**Popular Watercolor Tattoo Designs**

The watercolor tattoo style can be applied to a wide range of subjects. Some common themes include:
**Nature-inspired designs** – flowers, trees, animals, oceans, and skies
**Abstract shapes and color bursts** – often without a defined form
**Silhouettes with color splashes** – birds, dancers, animals, or geometric shapes filled with watercolor effects
**Portraits and pop culture imagery** – made more expressive with bold color choices
**Script or lettering** – surrounded by washes of color for emotional emphasis
Each watercolor tattoo is highly individualized. The color palette and flow of the design can be tailored to reflect the wearer’s personality or emotional connection to the subject.

**How Do Watercolor Tattoos Age?**
One of the biggest concerns with watercolor tattoos is how they age over time. Because they rely on soft colors and minimal linework, they can fade or blur more quickly than bold traditional tattoos if not carefully placed or properly cared for.
*To ensure longevity:*
Choose areas of the body that don’t see heavy friction or sun exposure
Work with an artist who knows how to balance aesthetic and structure
Use sunscreen and follow aftercare instructions carefully
Be open to occasional touch-ups to keep colors vivid
When done skillfully, watercolor tattoos age beautifully, taking on the look of a softly faded painting.

**Is a Watercolor Tattoo Right for You?**

Watercolor tattoos are perfect for people who are drawn to color, creativity, and expressive design. They offer a non-traditional approach that feels more fluid and emotional than classic tattoo styles. Whether you want a tattoo that looks like a sunset, a flower in bloom, or a burst of chaotic color, watercolor can bring it to life in a unique way.

Watercolor tattoos are where fine art and body art collide. They represent a modern, evolving approach to tattooing; one that celebrates movement, emotion, and individuality. With the right artist and thoughtful design, a watercolor tattoo can be a vibrant, personal masterpiece you carry with you for life. Both Caroline and Koryn have done beautiful watercolor tattoos for clients. If you are thinking about getting a watercolor tattoo, come in for a consult, either artist would love to work with you. You can check out their portfolios at https://www.instagram.com/koryn_tattoo/ and https://www.instagram.com/carolineannevans/

*Tip: Always check an artist’s portfolio for healed examples of watercolor work. A tattoo that looks amazing fresh out of the chair may require skillful planning to look just as stunning years later.*

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!