best tattoo artist

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What to bring to your first tattoo!

Posted by david on March 18, 2021
Posted in: David Meek Tattoos, Tattoo apprentice, Tucson Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Shop. Tagged: , , , . Leave a Comment

Every week, it seems I get the pleasure of making a persons first tattoo.

Me tattooing my dear friend with fun Mickey Mouse tattoo

Its completely normal to be  bit nervous about the whole process. So I thought maybe I’d help out all the future first timers with a short blog about what to do to prepare and what to bring with you to your first tattoo.

1. A GOOD NIGHTS SLEEP

Start the whole process by getting some good rest. And this goes for life in general!

2. SOME WATER AND SNACKS

Tattoos take a lot out of you. You have to be ready to put some good stuff back in. Bring and drink plenty of water and a few power bars.

3.COMFY CLOTHING

Youre gonna be twisting around a bit, best wear some comfy clothes that you dont mind getting dirty. ( some ink and fluids may get on them)

4. PHONE CHARGER

Years ago you just sat there and stared at the wall. Nowadays you stare at your phone. Its great idea to make sure youve got the juice for your phone!

5. ACCESSIBLE CLOTHING

I mentioned comfort but access is important too. Dont wear jeans if youre getting something on your thigh. zip up hoodies are great for back tattoos as well as outdated bathing suits for ribs hips backs and such.

6. PMA

sometimes its unavoidable to be grouchy but youre getting tattooed! this should be a great day.

Theres probably many more things Im forgetting, but this is a great start!

What are your thoughts? What did I forget? Stress balls? Chewing tobacco?

Let me know in the comments or tweet me @davidmeekart

If you want to set up an appointment with me, text my shop Art and Sol Tattoo at 520-324-7358

David Meek

Tucson Tattoo Artist

Best of Tucson is back!!

Posted by david on June 18, 2020
Posted in: Tucson Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Shop. Tagged: , , , , , , , . Leave a Comment

Its that wonderful time of year! The Tucson Weekly is accepting nominations for the best of Tucson. Ive been fortunate to be nominated in the top 5 for Best Tattoo Artist the last couple years and would love to keep the streak alive! If youve been lucky enough to have been tattooed in my new shop Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery, then you know all to well that it is the best place to get tattooed in Tucson. If you haven’t, well, we eagerly await you coming down. Not only is the shop super clean and inviting, we also host amazing local artists every month (pandemic permitting) in our gallery space.

Click hereto begin nominating now

Nominations for Best Tattoo Shop and Best Tattoo Artist in Tucson: Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery and David Meek

Art and Sol Tattoo CoVid Closure

Posted by david on March 28, 2020
Posted in: best tucson tattoos, Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Shop. Tagged: , , , , , . Leave a Comment

Well, here I am, finally writing about the current situation for us at the shop. Its not my favorite thing, but thats ok. 

As per Mayor Romero, non-essential businesses are to be closed by 8am this morning. 

Molly has been home isolating for a few days now and we are happy to join you and her in isolation. 

Johnna and I have been talking about this for days on end. Each morning we wake up and check what we call the “damage report”

Its not an ideal way to start the day, but it eliminated alot of confusion that can occur with social media and media outlets. 

our favorites are the

World Health Organization
CDC
Pima County
City of Tucson
https://www.azdhs.gov/
the office of Governor Ducey

So as of today we are officially closed for appointments until at least the 17th of April.

Johnna and I plan to shoot some texts to everyone that will be affected between now and then. 

Our plan as of now is to get all of our drawings and design work done, so when this is leveled out and we can have you back in the shop, we will fit you in however and wherever we can!

I am still doing  virtual consultations for tattoos, but am booking for august as of now. we can use skype ,google hangouts, messenger, or IG as of now.

So thats the main news here. Im hoping that you are doing well and are able to stay safe if you have to work or stay sane if you are stuck at home.

Our little family just discovered how much we love rock climbing and its killing us not to get over to the rock gym. But we arent sick so we have to be grateful for the right things instead of bummed about the things we cant do.

You have to know that I am a chronic optimist. I try to find the opportunity and  drive  in most instances…. and this no different. My wheels have been turning for weeks now. 

Ill be bringing back The Tattooers Podcast next week, so stay tuned for that…( send me questions youd like to have answered or tattoo artists youd like to know more about)

We want to do everything we can to stay open after all of this. 

What kinds of things can we do for you?
Limited run T-shirts?
Hats?
live drawing?
Drawing tutorials?

Send me any and all suggestions. I am game to work on things that will make you happy!!

Johnna will be teaching online yoga classes out of the shop too! you can find her on Instagram for now but a youtube channel is in the near future. 

Ill wrap this thing up for now, but just know that we are so grateful for you. Art and Sol is a big part of my life, and it wouldnt exist if people like you didnt support it. 

So for now, on behalf of Johnna, Molly and Myself, Thank you for everything, and we will see you soon.. online or in person!

Dave

L-R: Johnna Warren, David Meek, Molly Jaffee in front of Tucsons best tattoo shop Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery

Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery in Tucson is open

Posted by david on October 18, 2019
Posted in: Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery, David Meek Tattoos, Tucson Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Shop. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , . Leave a Comment

Hi Tucson, how are ya? have you been well? thats great… me too. 2019 has been one heck of a ride. Ive been able to do some really fun things this year. One of which was planning and marrying my sweetheart of the last 11 years. Hard to think we could squeeze any more into a 12 month period but I’m trying hahaha.

No signs yet but heres the building and home of Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery in Tucson Arizona

In fact, its already happened. We made the decision to expand our private studio and create a bigger environment that many artists could use to cultivate their artistic and personal dreams.

Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery is just that. Our little utopian tattoo studio. But not only that. We will also host new local artists each month.

Heres the inside view of Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery. So comfy and cozy…. Check out those floors!

Tucson is filled with 2 of my favorite things. Art and Sunshine ( and tacos)… hence the spelling of sun in our name. So maybe its like 3 things but it doesnt roll of the tongue the same way.

We’ve also added a new website, instagram, Facebook blah blah blah your favorite social media. Ill link to them so you can follow the ones you love.

what else? oh, i almost forgot… We are now offering permanent makeup and paramedical tattooing by appointment. In my opinion she is one of the best cosmetic tattooers in the tucson and you know how picky I am. or if you don’t, just know that i am.

Our first gallery artist is a dear friend that I happen to have 3 paintings in my personal collection Wallace Book… so it was a no brainer to have him show in our gallery first. You need to come down to the gallery to see his work, or if you cant make it, check him out on social media.

  • view from the entrance of Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery in Tucson Arizona
  • Painting by Wallace book the 1st artist displayed at Art and Sol Tattoo Gallery
  • painting by wallace book
  • paintings by wallace book
  • Painting with the Surly Wench and The Rocky Horror Picture Show by Wallace Book

Ill keep you posted here but you can also check out our new shop site to get to know the other artists and all the activities we have planned each month. Ill let you know when thats ready. Til then you can follow all the news @artandsoltattoo on Instagram and Wallace Book @wbookart as well as our new artists @off_tatt_molly and @raemorgan315

Hope we see you soon… like real soon. like October 25th at 6pm soon.

Back from the Honeymoon and its the last day to vote for Best Tattoo Artist in Tucson.

Posted by david on August 5, 2019
Posted in: Tattoo apprentice, Tucson Tattoo Artist, Tucson Weekly. Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , . Leave a Comment

Im Back. Wow, what a trip. The whole month of July has just flown by. In fact this whole year is cruisin.

The honeymoon was a huge success. We started with a day trip to Disneyland which is probably no surprise to some of you. After all, we did get engaged in the elusive Club 33 and got married on Walt and Lillians wedding anniversary, so why not start the honeymoon with a guided tour in Walts footsteps ending in Walts famed apartment above the firehouse.

It was incredible. To be able to share that space with other Walt enthusiasts was pure Disney Magic. We also checked out Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge which left me vibrating after my smugglers run adventure. The whole area is a must see.

Great shot of the Carnival Splendor with Lee your Cruise Director somewhere aboard

We followed it up with a 7 day Mexican Riviera Carnival Cruise. Its both relaxing and quite demanding. Im still trying to recover from a small cold I had on the honeymoon, while my wife feels like shes still on the boat….

Once I get more pictures from both of our phones Ill post a bit more.

David Meek best tucson tattoo artist nominee for the Tucson Weekly's Best of Tucson 2019
The Tucson Weekly Best of Tucson 2019 Best Tattoo Artist Nominee David Meek

But alas, the rest of this post is a reminder that today is the last day to vote for Best Tattoo Artist in the Tucson Weekly’s Best of Tucson. Im lucky to have been nominated to the top 5 for 2 years in a row but c’mon, winning would be so cool hahaha.

You can cast your votes by clicking here or you can click the button below.

CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR THE BEST TATTOO ARTIST

No matter the outcome Im so happy to be home, Im so happy to have so many wonderful clients that trust me to make fun tattoo memories, and Im so happy to be married.

Now its time to get back to work!

Did you take any trips this summer? Im thinking maybe a mountain getaway next? any recomendations?

Dave

Tucson Weekly Best Tattoo Artist Finalist

Posted by david on July 23, 2019
Posted in: best tucson tattoos, David Meek Tattoos, Tucson Tattoo Artist, Tucson Weekly. Tagged: , , , , , , , . Leave a Comment
Black and Grey Disneys Belle and Castle from Beauty and the Beast movie arm half sleeve tattoo by David Meek best tattoo artist in tucson
Belle from Disneys Beauty and the Beast Tattoo by David Meek Tucson Arizona

What a month. I just got married and Im a finalist in the Tucson Weekly’s Best of Tucson for Best Tattoo Artist for the 2nd year in a row. Im blown away. Its such an honor that my friends and customers think so highly of my work. As an artist its hard to see what others see, as Im always questing for improvement. Always wanting each piece to be better than the last. Not to say that my work isnt fantastic… Its just the plight of an artist. Never settling for “ok”. Staying up at night worrying about the small details that most never see.

Tucson Weekly Best of Tucson 2019 Best Tattoo artist David Meek Best hot dog You sly dog best food truck molecular munchies
Tucson Weekly Best of Tucson 2019

Its truly an honor to be recognized in my community. I learned how to tattoo here back in 2006 and 07. And to be among such amazing artists in the top 5 is mind blowing for sure.

Black and Grey realistic realism roaring bear half sleeve arm tattoo by david meek best tattoo artist tucson arizona
Black and Grey Realistic bear half sleeve arm tattoo by David Meek Tucson Az

My goal then and now has been to make great tattoos that stand the test of time! True collaborations between artist and collector.

If you havent voted in the Finals for best tattoo artist in Tucson, you can click the link here.

No matter the outcome, I have the best job and best customers in Tucson. So lets keep it going!

Be sure to check out some of my friends and vote for them as well like

You Sly Dog…. Molecular Munchies…. Tucson Hop Shop….Cyndi and Chris in the morning…Yoga Oasis… Jade Beall Photography

CLICK HERE TO VOTE FOR THE BEST IN TUCSON

Who are some of your favorite Tucson businesses and artists. Leave them in the comments so others can see who deserves some local love!

Dave

Best of Tucson 2019 finalists are in and I’m up for Best Tattoo Artist!

Posted by david on July 2, 2019
Posted in: best tucson tattoos, David Meek Tattoos, Tucson Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Expo. Tagged: , , , , , , , , . Leave a Comment

The first round of voting for Best of Tucson is in and Im blown away. For the second year in a row Ive been nominated for Best Tattoo Artist in Tucson. Thanks to all who nominated me! Its a huge honor to be be in the top 5… Im happy to just make good tattoos for my amazing clientele, but a little recognition aint gonna kill me haha. So again a huge thank you to all that have gotten me this far and trust me year after year to make tattoos for you.

Walt Disneys Beauty and the Beast Black and Grey Arm Tattoo by David Meek in Tucson Arizona
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Arm Tattoo by Me in Tucson Arizona

Best of Tucson Voting is live… so lets get best tattoo artist and best tattoo shop this year!

Posted by david on May 25, 2019
Posted in: best tucson tattoos, David Meek Tattoos, Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Artist. Tagged: , , , , , , . Leave a Comment

Traditional Pinup Hula Girl Tattoo available in Tucson at David Meek Tattoos

The time is upon us. The Tucson Weekly’s Best of Tucson 2019 voting has begun. Last year I was so very fortunate to have so many wonderful people put my name and my private studio in the ring for Best Tattoo Artist as well as Best Tattoo Shop in Tucson. It was such an honor to have the trust and votes from so many. My goal has always been to make tattoos that stand the test of time, are applied with clean crisp technique, in a clean and relaxingly comfortable studio…. So, as far as that goes, Ive been a winner for along time in that competition.

But… The competitor in me always wants a little more haha. So last year was only the first year my studio was open, and I was a finalist for Best Tattoo Artist and the studio was a finalist for Best Tattoo Shop. Amazing. But I think we can do a bit better this year.

This first round is for nominations. So please take a moment to go the the link and show some love for your favorite things in Tucson.

CLICK HERE TO CAST YOUR NOMINATIONS FOR BEST OF TUCSON

Best tattoo artist – David Meek Best Tattoo shop – David Meek Tattoos, Best Hot Dog- You Sly Dog, Best radio or morning show hosts – Cyndi and Chris, Best Hamburger- Molecular Munchies, Best brewery-Dilinger Brewing Co Best Yoga Studio- Yoga Oasis… these are just a few of my friends that deserve some recognition and a nomination!

Thanks for taking the time to support local tucson businesses!

Dave Meek

The Best of Tucson Finalists are in!

Posted by david on July 6, 2018
Posted in: David Meek Tattoos, tucson, Tucson Tattoo Artist. Tagged: , , , . 2 comments

Hey everyone, it happened… The Tucson Weekly Best of Tucson finalists are officially in… And even more exciting, I have been nominated for Best Tattoo Artist (David Meek) as well as Best Tattoo Shop (David Meek Tattoos). This is an incredible honor and I have to thank all of the people that have allowed me to tattoo them. The only thing is… We Need to Win. So here is the link to head back to ballot and let Tucson KNOW who is the best. Im also happy to report some of my close friends have also made it in the finals Best Food Truck ( You Sly Dog) Best Brewery (Borderlands) Best Neighborhood Bar and Best Beer Selection ( Tucson Hop Shop) just to name a few. 

Here is the link for you to cast your votes for the Best in Tucson.

Im so excited. Thanks so much… and you can bet money we will have a celebration when we win!!

 

Dave





The Tucson Weekly Best of Tucson 2018

Posted by david on May 15, 2018
Posted in: best tucson tattoos, David Meek Tattoos, Tattoo Artist, Tucson Tattoo Artist. Tagged: , , , . Leave a Comment

The Tucson Weekly best of Tucson primary voting is underway til June 17th and there is no better time to let your favorite Tucson establishment know how you feel about them. Categories include best Food Truck (You Sly Dog) or best radio host (Cyndi from 92.9) to best art gallery (MOCA) or best yoga studio (yoga oasis). I love being able to participate and support my favorite things about Tucson. From Roccos little chicagos wings to renting movies at Casa Video or grabbing a beer at Borderlands Brewery it makes me feel good how awesome our local stuff is. 

Click THIS LINK to go to the Tucson Weekly Best of Tucson Voting page to get started.

And support all your favorite local stuff including best tattoo artist ( ME!) and tattoo shop (David Meek Tattoos) 

Thanks everyone, Im really excited to see how this goes..

 

Dave