Our featured tattoo artist for August is Greg Ross, owner and artist at Blue Rose Tattoo in Huntsville, Alabama. Greg is an excellent artist who has been tattooing for 12 years. Although he appreciates other styles, his focus is primarily new school and animation style tattoos.
Greg’s interest in tattooing was first inspired by music. He said, “I was into punk/metal as a kid and most of the bands I liked were heavily tattooed. I always liked to draw flyers for shows and comics so it just sort of took off from that.”
Greg got first started apprenticing under Matt Crunk at a shop called InkCity in Decatur, Alabama. Some of his biggest influences when he started tattooing were Jime Litwalk, Tony Ciavarro and Gunnar.
He told us that, these days, he’s influenced by so many artists it would be impossible to name the all. “At the moment I’m really digging Frank LaNatra, James Texx, Electric Pick… This list could go on for days, there’s a million people I see on Instagram who are super good and I don’t even know their name. Outside of tattooing – I’ve always loved Coop, Frank Kozik, The Pizz. Lately I’ve been obsessed with the guys from Creature Box, they’re too rad.”
He eventually opened his own shop, Blue Rose Tattoo, in Huntsville. “It’s a small shop but we have a great crew and some really nice customers who let us have a lot of freedom with their tattoos. We’re planning on moving to a bigger location in the near future.”
Greg’s advice for someone looking to get his or her first tattoo:
“Just do your research. I think you need to make sure the artist is the right one for your tattoo. I think you should pay special attention to the style of tattooing in the artists portfolio. Most good tattooers should be able to take on anything you’re wanting, to some extent, but if you get something in their specific style of tattooing you’re going to get a much more amazing piece. If their style’s not to your taste, keep looking.
“Other than that you need to trust your artist. If you’re unsure about everything or second guess their suggestions, they may not be the right fit for you. There are so many great tattooers out there. At this point, if you’re willing to travel, there’s no reason to not end up with a great tattoo.”
Greg’s advice for tattoo artists who are just getting started:
“Draw nonstop all the time. Be humble and learn everything you can from other artists. For me, tattooing was the goal, not a stepping stone to something else. Stay focused on tattooing and don’t worry about anything else that may/may not come with it.”
Contact Greg Ross
Email: greg@thebluerosetattoo.com
Instagram: @gross9978
Facebook: BlueRoseTattoo78
Shop: Blue Rose Tattoo
1402 North Memorial Parkway
Huntsville, AL 35801
Phone: (256) 533-4400
*** Don’t forget to mention you saw him on PerfectTattooArtists.com!
Images © Greg Ross
