I was referred to Kuya Ron over Island Tat to get some ink blasted on my right shoulder. I was told Kuya Ron has a good rep, blasted for a long time, and has that "G" touch. As for me at least, anyone who can blast the "G" way and still do great work gets my business.
Initial Visit: Upon arrival, I noticed is that the shop is clean, island decor, and they got the island tunes playing. Like someone mentioned earlier, nothing but good vibes vibing. So I got to talk to Kuya Ron, told him what I wanted and he suggested what would be best to go about doing it. I took his word and felt confident with his suggestion. Everything was a go and got a appointment set.
The Day of Appointment: Early morning, I was first to get blasted for the day. I brought a actual pic of what I want. Kuya Ron sketched it up and made some modifications to jazz it up a bit. Then he transferred the piece to my right shoulder and started blasting. The session took about an hour or so and the end result was way better than I expected. Will most definitely get more ink blasted at Island Tat.
Maraming Mahalos Kuya Ron!
Why are there not more reviews of Island Tat - Lemon Grove!? I KNOOOW a ton of people have gotten their tattoo over here.
I got my tattoo (shoulder piece) done by Josh. I know this was my first tattoo, but he is seriously one of the most talented ARTISTS I have ever met; not just tattoo specific. He was able to take exactly what I wanted and make it a reality. He's really cool and down to earth as well. Definitely some good vibes at this location... from the atmosphere, the decor, Joe manning the front desk, the music and videos playing, to Josh going at your skin with a needle.
It's been 2.5 weeks since my appointment and I'm healing really well. Josh told me straight up that his clients tend to heal pretty fast and it's true. I've posted my tat on a forum and the people there claim that it stays true to original patterns while adding a modern twist and another guy says that it has "lots of strength". Both things that Josh SAID he was going to put into my tat. NICE!
Anyways, if you wanna get your tattoo somewhere where the tattoo artist is a true artist and he and the entire staff treat you well, go to Island Tat and make an appointment with Josh! I'm already thinking about booking my next!
I got my tat done by Joshawa at the Ia 'Oe E Ka La Hula Festival and Competition in Pleasanton about a month ago. I LOVE IT! I've seen Joshawa's work before and knew that he was the best when it comes to anything Polynesian. Joshawa definitely has an artist's feel for design. He was able to take my idea and put it in ink, freehanded too. The process was very quick and neat, fairly priced as well. My tat healed without any trouble in about a week.
If you're thinking about getting a tat, go to Island Tat. You'll be treated well, and come out with some awesome body art. Book early though, these guys are in high demand.
Besides the appointment mix up, which I had to confirm myself and found out the guy didn't put it in the computer....
everyone was great. So make sure you're booked for sure!!
After a long wait to get an appointment and then a couple reschedules...I finally got my tattoo from Josh...and it turned out better than I expected with room to add what I would get later. I knew what style I wanted (obviously doing my homework...n not just randomness) which was more Poly as opposed to Filipino etc. Â He freehands first...if he doesn't like it he'll erase...and come back and put something else. Â I took a quick look at it and felt it needed something in some places....he went back, fixed it up, and it was perfect. Josh gets the work done from start to finish. Â
I do plan on getting more done so I will be coming back to Island tat for sure. Â You can't forget about Kuya Ron either!! He was doing a tattoo at the same time and the work turned out great!! Â The female that was getting her tat done had gone to him before, so it does speak highly of his work as well.
Everyone's personality is fun and out going, humble, and real, even the people who come in to say what's up... may have not even worked there but a guy did come in and was the one who handed me the Tattoo Care paper when I was done! =)
I wasn't nervous but excited...
Although it might be hard to get an appointment "soon" there's so much that Island tat does also...my suggestion is to take what is available....but expect a great tattoo in the end!!! you wont be disappointed! Â The price is reasonable for the style and individuality of your own tattoo. Â i can't complain, im happy with my tattoo.
10/10/2010
Is there such thing as a pre review before the review?
My appointment is set for this coming up Wednesday October 13th. So far so good, i've been speaking with Tyler via email to arrange an appointment with Josh. The biggest reason why I mention this is you NEED to book ahead! At least a month in advance. These guys are always traveling to different conventions and show's, so start talking to them ahead of time. The style of traditional polynesian as far as Samoan, Maori, Hawaiian, Filipino with hooks, weaving, crosses, epu's, have always interested in me. From personal experience already having a left back and front panel to shoulder piece half sleeve is the beauty and design, as well as the meaning and the significance of the design. Every piece tells a story depicting that individual...who they are.
Wednesday i'm looking to ask if Josh can turn this half sleeve into a full sleeve. So more updates to come.
We'll see how it goes. Stay tuned.
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10/13/2010
Alright, soooo. After 7 hours and some change I finally tapped out. I guess this mean to be continued for the 2nd session that will partake on the 27th of October.
Finally, today I stepped foot in Island Tat to begin bringing down my half sleeve to my wrist. Today was the official day of getting to know the Island Tat crew as well. There was Tyler who is Josh's apprentice and worked the front desk, Kuya Ron who is a really cool dude who specializes in Filipino Tribal yet i'm under the impression he is well rounded in everything, then there was Joshawa who specializes in most Traditional Pacific Islander style of Tattooing. You ever walk in a shop and feel uncomfortable? Well all of these guy's make you feel welcome! Josh is really humble, and really really down to earth.
Once Josh has prepped and ready I sat in the chair. He began free handing my sleeve. Thirty minutes later we began the outline. Keep in my that he charges $150 and hour, but also keep in mind is the QUALITY your receiving for work that you will have for the rest of your life. His work is VERY prestine, lines created are crisp, and is very adimate about being perfect, so in other word he's a perfectionist.
So far so good. To be continued. AGAIN!
Josh created some original artwork for my paddling club. His work *is* one of a kind, has meaning, and will convey they type of message you are looking for. He's an extremely talented artist who takes deep pride in his craft. I highly recommend if you are looking for art that is unique and meaningful.
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