08 July,2010 09:42 AM IST | | The Guide Team
Lara Pascoe goes on a tattoo trail and picks three Studios that will ink you well
If you're looking for the hottest places in Bangalore to get yourself inked with some originality and panache but don't know where to start; we've scouted out some of the finest studios and artists who can brand you just right.
Bramha Tattoo Studio
Stepping into the small clinical studio in Indo Dubai Plaza, Bramha Tattoo Studio doesn't appear to be a comforting place, but don't be perturbed, you're here for the artwork not the ambience.
Hundreds of artwork line the walls for your choosing and one bed with one talented artist, Girish, will take care of your tattooing needs.
In the industry for almost 8 years, Girish was originally trained by a methodical Russian tattoo artist and finds his passion is in maori tribal art with a Polynesian influence.
"My favourite piece is a customer who came to be with a tradition Indian design that they wanted customised. I put in some maori tribal art, Polynesian art and western influences to fuse an interesting piece that's a good story to tell."
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Inspiration: Indian traditional, Maori tribal and Polynesian art.
At Indo Dubai Plaza, Brigade Road, Bangalore
Artist Girish
Call 94482-00145
For Rs 2,000-6,000
Kraayonz Tattoo Studio
Tattooist to the celebrities, Sameer Patange runs the nationally successful Kraayonz Tattoo studios and has recently opened shop at Raheja Arcade. With a personal love for comics and customising his clients work, Sameer trains all of his apprentices in the specialties of keeping an eye for detail and having an "I can do this" attitude.
His current protege, Deep, will be managing the funky Bangalore studio which is decked out with a modern interior, colourful lighting and feature artworks that sets it apart from traditional tattoo studios.
Starting his career in 1998, Sameer realises the impact his work has on his clients;" I started with my passion for art and wanting to do something with a difference.
My first piece of advice to anyone is to do their homework and make sure they realise this is for life. Once they have reached this, we're happy to run with them on whatever designs they like and how we can make it better"
Inspiration: Japanese oriental, detailed work, cartoons and US based tattoo artist Anil Gupta.
At Shop 8, Raheja Arcade near The Forum
Artist: Sameer Patange/ Deep
Call 98203 42044
For Rs 2000 - 10000
Log on to:www.sameerpatange.com
Kayo Shroff Studio
Independent from the industry, tattoo artist Kayo Shroff is only in it for the art. Without charging for his work, this talented artiste makes up for his lack of profit by fulfilling his passion.
Growing up with a keen passion for watercolour artwork, Kayo who works full time with an IT firm wanted to change his canvas and started training in tattooing two years ago.
Now working on weekends only from his personal studio at his penthouse apartment, he finds his latest passion to be in exotic celtic and tribal pieces that are on large spaces of human "canvas" such as backs or chests.
The catch lies in the fact that Shroff reserves the right to choose who he works on.
"I'm open to anybody who is interested and what sort of work they want, although I have a preference for larger pieces. It's not a job for me; therefore I want to get the best out of my art and strive to learn more."
Inspiration Tribal art and large canvas pieces.
Call 98453 47327
For Free
Log onto www.kayoshroff.daportfolio.com
What to do before your tattoo
Check the hygiene of your parlour. If you see the artist not using brand new sterilised needles, antiseptic or rubber gloves; walk out straight away. The possibility of contracting deadly diseases or infections is too great for you to risk it.
Talk to the artist to make sure you are on the same understanding on your artwork and what you are looking for. Most artists will be delighted to add in their creative twists if you ask them.
Make sure the trial trace stamp is placed correctly before the needles come out. This is the outline that the tattoo artist will be following, so make sure its sitting correctly for your liking.
If you're feeling unsure about your artwork, ask your closest friends and colleagues for their opinion. After all, they are the ones you'll be showing it off to and you may be disheartened if some of them think it's unsuitable for you.
