Choosing an artist

I have an idea that I would like for my next tattoo, but I'm going to need help designing it. There are two artists in my area whose work I really like and would like to see what each of them would come up with. My question is, what is the accepted etiquette when it comes to something like this? I would hate to waste anyone's time having them design something for me, then not use it. What is the best way to approach this? Thanks. jb

if its a big piece maybe they could both work on it, i know some artist love to collaborate.

yeah nothing wrong with that. hopefully you have a good idea of what you envision the art you want to be....if you want the artist to expunge on your concept i guess you should just hook up an appointment with them and just be honest and let em know your dilemma. good luck.

First you should choose an artist and then work with them on the design. Who are you thinking about going to? There are some awesome artists in Florida. What are your ideas?

You might want to find an artist who is good at the particular style of work you want as there are many styles of work as well as artist who specialize in that particular one. Take your ideas/artwork into them, dicuss what you want it to look like when done and perhaps even pay the art fee to have both draw it up for you. At worst, you'd be out a bit of art fee but that's far better than ending up with a tattoo you are not happy with and could have been done as you wanted in the first place. Kmama told you right, there are some awesome tattoo artist in Florida and what do you have in mind, as perhaps we could recommed someone for you to check out. Take your time, do your research and Good Luck...Doc

First off, thanks to everyone for the input. Of all of the artists I've checked out in the Central Florida area, my favorite is by far Earl Funk at Trinity Tattoo (http://www.trinitytattoo.com) in Longwood. He did my first (and only) tattoo, and although it was relatively simple in design, I was impressed with him, and his shop. Just recently I was made aware of Ant at Ascension Custom Dermagraphics. It's a newer shop, but from what I've read, he has lots of experience, and I really like what I see on their site. My original question centered around tattoo etiquette, and if it was generally accepted to have an artist design something, then not use it (the design), or even the artist, at all. If most are comfortable charging just an "art fee", then that may be the route I go. I think more than anything, I would feel awkward having to explain to the artist that this was just an "audition", and that he may not get the part. I believe my idea would best be served by someone who excels in a modern/cartoon style. I am looking for the main image to be on my deltoid, with the possibility of it becoming the centerpiece for a quarter or half sleeve in the near future. If anyone has any comments, suggestions, or input, they are always welcome. Thanks again.

I would go talk with both,and see who i connect better with..Alot of the time it's not who's a better tattooer,but who do i feel more comfortable with..A couple more sites to check out.. www.ocalatattoo.com www.subculturez.com www.redletter1.com

yeah, you should be able to pick the artist before asking them to design the tattoo. Earl is awesome, and I think he would be a good fit. Dont know the other folks they may be awesome! But I wouldn't ask an artist to draw for you unless you were committed to getting the tattoo from them. Another person off the top of my head who would do a good job is Jason Ackerman.

Just wanted to share a picture of the outline of my new tattoo. Earl Funk at Trinity Tattoo in Longwood, FL did an amazing job making my idea come to life. I can't wait for the two weeks to pass so that I can get the color and shading done. What do you think?

Looks great! Tell Earl to join as a member already! I wish I had a chance to talk to him in Boston... ah well..

I like that a lot! I'm grinning just looking it. Nice to see that you got what you wanted. Good luck!

I posted the outline a few weeks ago, so here's the finished product, all healed up. And once again, I can't say enough about Earl at Trinity Tattoo in Longwood, FL. Check him out if you're in the area...

I posted the outline a few weeks ago, so here's the finished product, all healed up. And once again, I can't say enough about Earl at Trinity Tattoo in Longwood, FL. Check him out if you're in the area...