John Tilt - Stourbridge Tattoo Studio
Ever since an early age I showed an interest in drawing and painting. From as far back as I can remember I always seemed to have a pencil in my hand! I have completed hundreds of oil paintings during my life and it was only until six years ago that I got introduced to the art of tattooing by international award winning artist Andrew Morris. He offered me an apprenticeship which I eagerly accepted.
I learnt every aspect of tattooing at the Sedgley branch under his guidance, from flash colour through to black and grey portraits. I then worked up the Dudley branch with Carl Zambra for six months where I developed my skills further, particularly with new school colour and then spent three years at the Stafford branch where I continued to develop as an artist. I have also learnt a lot from Hagar, of Hagar and Kev's tattoo studio, Walsall.
In 2009 I was offered a managerial position at the new Stourbridge studio which I gladly accepted. The shop has been open since September 2009 and is now established in the local area. I love all aspects of tattooing but I particularly like to do black and grey portraits. I feel very comfortable doing this type of tattoo due to being a portrait painter for twenty five years.
I would like to thank all of the people who have helped me during the last five years, particularly Andy Morris for allowing me to apprenctice under him and also Hagar for helping me develop as a tattooist. Tattooing is now a complete way of life for me.