apprenticeships in Memphis

Hi there, I live in Memphis TN but I'm originally from Scotland. I have an extensive art & design backgound and have worked in Memphis Art Galleries for the last 15 years. I'm interested in becoming a full time, bona fide Tattoo artist. Is there such a thing as a tattoo apprenticeship and what is the availability? This is something I've thought about off and on since I was a teenager. Does anyone out there have any info or advice for me. Much appreciate ANY input. Thanks, Fiona.

there is such a thing as a tattoo apprenticeship..But with all the people tattooing today,it seems like it would be a difficult thing to find.You could go to all the shop's in your area,and inquire about it.One of the things u can do,is get tattooed by an artist who's work u admire.There are plenty of tattooers that wen't to art school,and are very talented artists,but they are lousy tattooers because they never get the technical aspect down.The only shop in Memphis that i know is good,is www.undergroundartmemphis.com David Evans is a good tattooer.A good shop that opened in Nashville,is www.musiccitytattoo.com

I actually talked to Ralph at Memphis Tattoo today. They actually do offer apprenticeships. I'll have to check into it a little more. However, it did seem like pretty good value for the money. Especially if you take into consideration how much college courses can cost these days...