AJ

A.J. grew up in Spearfish, South Dakota, and has remained closely connected to the Black Hills and the lifestyle that comes with calling the region home.

A United States Marine Corps veteran who also served in the South Dakota Army National Guard, A.J. comes from a family with a long history of military service. His grandfather served during World War II, and his father served during the Vietnam War. That family history, combined with his own military experience, has helped shape the discipline, dedication, and sense of responsibility he brings to his work.

Like his brother, A.J.'s artistic interests began in childhood. Growing up with an artist in the family and sharing those early drawing experiences helped establish a creative foundation that eventually developed into his own approach to tattooing.

Today, A.J. works across a variety of tattoo styles, with a particular focus on traditional tattooing and illustrated realism. Traditional tattooing has become a renewed passion, offering an appreciation for its history, strong composition, bold lines, and timeless appeal. Illustrated realism provides another creative outlet, allowing him to push the boundaries of drawing and incorporate more personal interpretation while keeping the artwork grounded.

His approach reflects an appreciation for both the fundamentals of tattooing and the creative possibilities that come with developing a design around an individual client.