Today we’d like to introduce you to Joel Molina.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Apprenticed in Champaign, Il at NewLife tattoos under Tattoo Tilt. Moved to Richmond, VA and worked for a year at All For One Tattoo. Before coming back to Chicago land in 2012, first working at Tomato Tattoo in Lisle, IL. Finally, landed at Chicago Tattooing Company in April of 2013.
Has it been a smooth road?
Hell, no.
All of the struggles in any craft or trade.
Makes it more interesting and something to be said about being persistent and hard working.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Chicago Tattooing Company story. Tell us more about the business.
Chicago Tattooing Company was first opened by Cliff Raven in the late 60’s. Owned and operated by Dale Grande since 1973, CTC is Chicago’s oldest running shop.
Specialize in Traditional American and Japanese style tattooing.
Mainly, a street shop catering to most styles including lettering, black and gray, and black work style tattoos.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Interesting to see how social media shapes and forms the future of tattooing. Already Myspace and TV shows have revolutionized how accessible tattoos are. Then, it transformed into Facebook and Instagram. Pretty interesting seeing the changes, especially through my boss’ eyes who has been in the industry for close to 50 yrs.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Interesting to see how social media shapes and forms the future of tattooing. Already Myspace and TV shows have revolutionized how accessible tattoos are. Then, it transformed into Facebook and Instagram. Pretty interesting seeing the changes, especially through my boss’ eyes who has been in the industry for close to 50 yrs.
Pricing:
- Hourly Rate is $150
- Shop minimum is $60 and $100 for anything on the hands, feet or neck
Contact Info:
- Address: 1017 W Belmont Ave
- Website: https://www.chicagotattooing.com/
- Phone: (773) 528-6969
- Email: chicagotattooinginfo@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chicagotattoo/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thechicagotattooco/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChicagoTattoo
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/chicago-tattoo-and-piercing-chicago?sort_by=date_desc
Image Credit:
Tattoos by Gentleman Joel
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