When it comes to getting ink, there are many decisions that need to be made. Finding an artist, finding their location, and evaluating if the place is clean and professional.
When you're new to the area, looking for an artist can be tricky - but thank goodness for social media! Through word of mouth, checking Yelp, Facebook and reviewing photos on Instagram, I was able to meet up wtih Steve Roberts at Rise Above.
When I first talkd with him, he asked me important questions about my concept of an abstract pocket watch. (His question, abstract mean different things to different people) He provided me his instagram so I could review some of his work, and that was when I knew he was the guy to do the work for me.
I stopped in to meet with him and it consisted of reviewing my concept, him evaluating the ink area and collecting the size, and scheduling the appt. and collecting the deposit. But, what was most impressive walking in was how clean and open the entire facility looked like. Â Pictures hung on the wall, photo albums and books with each artists designs were neatly setup in the front and easily accessible for people to look through, and a unique ambiance to set an artistic mood.
I'm excited to come back to finish up the rest of my artwork. :)
When I was in college, I got a tattoo on my shoulder blade. It was stupid really. A cartoon panda with an apple on its head. It was cute, until I turned 25. And 26. And 27...by 29, I knew it was time to bid the tattoo adieu. After a recommendation from my hair stylist, I decided to book an appointment with Scott Lukacs at Rise Above. (I think it's important to note that the first time I got a tattoo, the pain got to me so much that I dry-heaved.)
These guys are real artists. I mean, real artists...everything they do is original. I told Scott what I wanted and he drew it up exceeding my expectations.
Through the whole experience, I felt calm and relaxed, and was excited about the fact that I was receiving a tattoo (of a colorful stargazer lily) that nobody else had. In fact, people are always asking me where I got it done and complimenting on how realistic it looks!
The place is clean, the artists are laid back. I can't wait to return this summer for even more ink!
It's taken me 5 tattoos to finally find a place that I can confidently say I have shop loyalty too. I got my 5th and largest tattoo here at Rise Above by Scott Lukacs.
By far the friendliest guy I've dealt with in tattoo related situations, and I've been to many of the popular tattoos shops in the area (black chapel, ascension, etc). This small shop, run by Scott White and Scott Lukacs is fairly new to the area, but I hope will be a mainstay in the mills50 neighbourhood. There's some serious talent in this shop. Scott Lukacs travels alot and is always fully booked at the conventions he does tattoo work in all over the world. I happened to catch him shortly after he returned from vacation and he helped me make my custom project a reality. I won't ever have to trust any other artist with doing permanent art on my body ever again. If you're looking for some custom work done, look through their online portfolios and check this place out. They have the talent to make your vision a reality.
Elizabeth F is right. This place is 5 stars for Scott White alone.
Scott has done four of my tattoos, one being custom. I walked in with an idea and he drew it quickly, precisely and edited until I was completely happy. Good thing since it's a life decision =) What I really appreciate about Scott is the love he has for the art and he's not afraid to tell you if something won't work or is stupid and will suggest, based on his expertise, tips on improvement. He takes pride in each piece. He is also a local artist, all of his work is fabulous. He does colors brilliantly as well.
So happy he is at this location now and it's his baby. True art work is done here and if you want to stop in and see their work, please do so. Scott is appointment only though so make sure to call ahead or stop in before you want the actual work done.
I love the guys at Rise Above! I have another tattoo by the talented Scott White and I recently came to his new shop for an addition to my back and it looks awesome! I had no doubts :) Although I only have ink from Scott White, Scott Lukacs and Joe Spino are very talented as well.
I think one of my favorite things about this place is how fun and inviting the environment and the guys are. They are SO friendly and the conversation is always entertaining. I would definitely recommend Rise Above if you're looking to get some new ink. You won't regret it! :)
If you are looking for awesome dudes with awesome talent, this is the shop for you. Â Scott White is my current go-to guy for all things permanent, but the skill that flows from the machines of the other two guys (Scott Lukacs, Joe Spino) makes me tempted to stray. Â There isn't much to see here as far as flash on the walls go (the shop is too busy looking badass to have room), but they can draw up anything your little heart can imagine. Â
The BEST part? Â These guys are actually NICE to you. Â They leave their attitudes somewhere else and come to the shop ready to help you get something you'll want forever. Â
And I like it.