Avalon Tattoo

My tattoo artist at another shop moved out of state and I had been itching for something new and was terrified to trust anyone with my tattoos until I walked into Avalon and met Joe Kearney. I feel like getting a tattoo from someone isn't just based on their ability but also on the connection you build with that someone. Having a tattoo artist you can trust is like having an actual relationship with that person, you are trusting them with your body and you should be able to give them the freedom to express themselves in that tattoo but know that the end result will be a work of art for the both of you. My experience with Avalon and with Joe is definitely something worth mentioning. From start to finish he was very honest, gave you his opinions and expressed actual interest in knowing you as a person. He gave me the most beautiful traditional Indian girl with a headdress and completely took the picture I brought in and turned it into a masterpiece by adding his own style. I have recommended Joe to all of my friends and will continue to remain a loyal Avalon customer. Long live Jose Carne!

I got my first (and only) tattoo so far done here by Tonya Van Parys. My tattoo was just a simple script that required very little "art", so when I initially walked in to find an artist, I chose based off of portfolio appearance, figuring that someone who would take the time to make their portfolio look neat in appearance would put similar attention into the tattoo. Luckily, Tonya happened to be free while I was there, so I spoke to her about the quote and font I wanted, then booked my appointment and left my deposit.

When I came back a few weeks later, I was understandably nervous, but the Talking Heads and Bowie playing over the soundsystem as I waited helped quite a bit. I quickly got the paperwork all done, and then headed back. I had one small change that I wanted to make to the design, but that was fixed quickly, and then I got the stencil put on. While she was setting up, Tonya explained what to look for in a tattoo artist's setup to make sure that everything was properly sterilized and clean if I were to get another tattoo in the future, which I appreciated.

Then it started. Because the tattoo was on my ribs, she told me that she wouldn't be trying to engage me in conversation, as too much talking could make me move around, which I also appreciated. I won't lie and say that it didn't hurt at all, but it hurt a lot less than I expected, especially for what I've heard is one of the most painful tattoo spots (but then again, I only have a 2x6 inch script tattoo, and not some giant piece with a ton of shading). I was done in about fifteen minutes (or maybe less, but it did seem like a lot longer while I was under the needle). She cleaned me up and let my friend take a photo for me before wrapping it up and giving me the aftercare instructions.

Be sure to follow the healing instructions that they give you!!! I did with mine and everything came out perfect, it's 8 months later and everything still looks great, I never experienced any of the gapping or fading that I know some people can get as a tattoo is healing.

All in all, a great first tattoo experience.

Went to Avalon for my first tattoo and was completely happy with my overall experience!! Clean place and very friendly staff!! I worked with Kelly on my first tattoo  and he did an amazing job! I moved to vegas not long ago but wanted to get my next tattoo at Avalon! So I flew in last weekend and learned Kelly had moved so I worked with Jason! He did such a fantastic job!! I am so happy with his work! It was on my ribs so he kept me calm and chatted with me so I Didnt focus on the pain! But overall he Did a good job and it Didnt even hurt that much!! Definitely will be flying back to see Jason for my next tat!!:)