Seth Leibowitz has owned Artform Gallery & Tattoo in Leechburgh, Pennsylvania for nearly a decade. He describes his shop as a creative atmosphere with a variety of artistic outlets that doubles as his home away from home. It took vision and drive to get where he is today; and it wasn’t exactly the vision he had for himself all along.

About fifteen years ago, after Seth attended The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, he rented a small apartment in town. Like most exiting college, the big question was: Now what do I do? He never really cared for tattoos because he didn’t believe that they could ever look good.

One day he ran into a gentleman standing outside a tattoo shop below his apartment. The guy had an amazing portrait of Kurt Cobain that blew Seth’s mind. At that moment his interest was piqued; he soon began working at American Tattoo and would later move on to open Artform Gallery & Tattoo.

Seth specializes in cover-up tattoo work. When asked more about his style, he said:

“Versatility is key with tattooing . . . [I] really try not to perfect a signature style; instead I enjoy exploring new styles and embracing different techniques.”

He’s inspired by Jeff Gogue, a brilliant painter and tattoo artist. Seth also adds that Jeff is an “. . . all around great human being.” When it comes to his artwork, Alex Grey has also made a huge impact in addition to Guy Aitchison. Seth admires that Guy is educating fellow artists by promoting the high standards for the tattooing industry.

Seth’s advice for someone getting a tattoo:

“Take your time, don’t rush, do your research, and above all make sure your tattoo artist is taking every precaution to prevent cross contamination and is OSHA certified. Also, it goes without saying that if your ‘tattoo artist’ is tattooing you inside their home as opposed to an aseptic tattoo parlor; it’s probably not the cleanest environment and typically no reputable artist would do this. DO YOUR RESEARCH!”

Seth’s advice for aspiring tattoo artists:

“Get your OSHA certifications for body modifications for your client’s safety and your own. Don’t think this is an easy career to pursue. You must take years of practice and research event hen you may not want to continue on this career path. If you rush, you may harm yourself or permanently scar or ruin a person’s body. Put the money aside and think about the people who will carry your artwork forever.”

When’s Seth is not tattooing, he’s painting, painting, and painting some more.