Ram Lee Tattoo

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  As of this review, I have 6 tattoos - one large ankle piece that is a composite of 3 artists' work, a good-sized back piece, a shoulder, and one only a few select people know about. I'm a detail-oriented person that loves good art, and knows the importance of finding exceptional artists for something as permanent as a tattoo. I researched the artists that did my art and chose them carefully.  I based my artist selection on the style they specialize in, their skills, the equipment they use, the cleanliness and comfort of their shop, and the personal connection I established with them.
  
  When I met with Ram Lee, saw his work, visited his studio, and discussed his background and areas of specialty, I knew I'd finally found a "local" artist that could meet my high expectations. Traverse City is lucky Ram and his family decided to settle down here.  I've traveled long distances to work with tattoo artists of Ram's caliber - now we have one here.
  
  When Ram is not in his tattoo parlor, he travels extensively to share his skills, knowledge and experience with his clients.  He's often a Guest Artist in shops throughout the U.S.  Every year he has a booth at several large, "invitation-only" conventions and shows.  Ram's work is that good, his desire to please his clients is that great, and his Love of creating amazing tattoo art runs that deep.
  
  Ram's history and experience reads like a who's who of the tattoo industry.  A number of his friends are famous tattoo artists, he's worked for the one and only Brian Everett of Route 66 Tattoo, and practiced his art alongside Tom Renshaw of Eternal Tattoos and Durb Morrison of Stained Skin.  Like any artist, the more time a tattooist spends with the masters of their art form, the more insights they gain, and the better their skills and techniques become.  Ram is truly devoted to his profession.
  
  Ram Lee is the consummate professional tattoo artist.  He usually answers his own calls and emails.  When he schedules an appointment with you, he keeps it, and he's punctual.  He listens intently to what you desire for your personal masterpiece, and he has an extensive library of art books and references to draw from to help bring your masterpiece to life.  Like a painter or a sculptor, a tattooist's skills are filtered by the quality of their equipment.  Ram's machines are top-shelf, and he only uses the best in the industry. To assure you a great tattoo and the most sterile of conditions, he uses disposable tubes and needles.  Ram used to be an EMT and passes any and all required licensing exams and tests with flying colors.
  
  Ram Lee Tattoo is unlike any other tattoo shop in northern Michigan.  Ram wanted his tattoo parlor to be more personal and comfortable, while exceeding necessary health dept. standards.  Ram Lee Tattoo is a mix of old and new, precision and technology, comfort and sterility, rock & roll good times, and calm, soothing surroundings.  Ram's studio is in a great space above Right Brain Brewery, in the "warehouse district" of Traverse City, where he's among numerous fine artists and detail-oriented craftsmen.  The waiting area is welcoming and relaxing, while the "work area" is super clean, well-lit and nicely organized.  Ram keeps his tattoo parlor well-stocked, and being that he's sponsored by Eternal Tattoo Supply, he has a vast assortment of inks at his disposal.  
  
  Ram is an interesting mix of old school craftsman, and new world man.  He's detail and service oriented, with a great work ethic, yet has fully embraced the use of today's technology.  He's always armed with his iPad, laptop or phone, which he uses to stay in touch with the world and his clients, to share his work and travels, or for referencing artwork.  His studio has WiFi available, offers the ability for you to listen to your own music, and when I was there, a large flat-screen TV was awaiting installation.
  
  Ram is presently working on revitalizing and enhancing my ankle piece.  He's brought back to life the fine detail work that had faded, he's creatively accentuated some shading work that lost it's vigor, and he's tying all the pieces together with some classic Japanese waves. A few weeks ago he brought to life Isaac Bignell's "Loon Dance" on my right shoulder.  Ram's lines are uber clean, and his shading is absolutely amazing - whether he's working with black & grey or color.  Ram's an amazing artist, and he's a lot of fun to work with.
  
  If you're looking to get some ink, you owe it to yourself to give Ram a call.

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  Posted on 04.27.11 Mike A.

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