Emma Griffiths Tattoo

I've been tattooed a hell of a lot in my lifetime (half my life now, if you must know. Word.) I remember the first time I encountered Emma's work, when I was getting tattooed in another Brooklyn studio and her paintings were on display. I sound like a pretentious ass when I describe art, so I'll leave it at this: when I found out the painter I had been admiring was a tattoo artist, I immediately called and booked an appointment for a chest piece.

I think trusting someone to do your chest piece as the first tattoo you're getting from them speaks volumes. I had been wanting an old school looking flapper, but not exactly that flash gypsy design, being that it was on my chest and the fact that I wanted something unique. I described this to Emma during our consultation and when she showed me what she had drawn up, it was just perfection. I don't know if it's because we're kindred spirits and have a similar aesthetic, but it's been that way with each subsequent piece I've gotten from her (a stunning portrait of Lady Day on my inner arm, a flash-like sailor on my other inner arm, another stunning portrait of Josephine Baker on my calf)... My most recent piece in progress is three hummingbirds on a butterfly bush on my entire right side and yes that includes the ribs.

Which brings me to another point. All of the tattoos that Emma has done for me were on sensitive spots but her light touch with the gun made it thoroughly bearable. I realized the difference after getting tattooed recently by a dude who drove the needles in with all the force of a fucking jack hammer. Never again. It doesn't have to be miserable, people. I've been under the needle for hours, trust.

Finally, you should know that I'm not alone in loving the art that graces my body. I'm stopped constantly and asked who my artist is. I'd be sending Emma a lot more business if I still lived in Brooklyn!

Luv Emma Porcupine! She is my tattoo artist of choice. I had my first tat done by her when she had her tiny storefront on the LES and she was really a sweetheart. I went back for two more and those won't be the last. Emma is a real artist dedicated to her craft. She is also very highly regarded inside the biz as I've heard from a number of other tattoo artists.

Emma is amazing.  I've been going to her for years, and she's not only a brilliant artist, but a lovely soul.  She's designed bright, bold custom work for me that gets me stopped on the street.  She has a light touch, a great eye, and the studio is the cleanest and meanest you'll ever step foot in.