Trading Surf for Southern Spirit
So, what makes a SoCal artist pick up his tattoo gun and set up shop just outside Nashville?
“It wasn’t just about leaving L.A.,” Jason says. “It was about finding somewhere that made sense for the kind of tattoos I want to do—and the kind of artist I’ve become.”
Southern California might be known for its competitive tattoo scene and creative energy, but for Jason, Tennessee brought something he hadn’t felt in a while: purpose. His studio, which officially opened on October 16, isn’t your average walk-in spot. It’s private, appointment-only, and intentionally designed to offer a calm, connected experience. Think more “sacred space” than buzz-and-go.
“Nashville welcomed me in a way I hadn’t felt in years,” Jason reflects.
Tattoos That Carry Weight
Jason specializes in black-and-grey realism and neo-traditional styles. But what really sets his work apart? The meaning behind each piece.
From faith-based tattoos to memorials and service-oriented designs, his clients come in with stories—and leave with art that honors them. Many are veterans or active-duty military. Others are locals who want to commemorate something deeply personal.
“There’s something about people here,” he says. “They don’t just want a cool design—they want something that reflects faith, service, or a loved one’s memory.”
He brings that same care to every step of the process: designs are fully custom, inks are vegan and cruelty-free, and clients receive complete aftercare support. That’s not just about ethics—it’s about respect.
📌 Want to see the work? Check out the tattoo portfolio for faith-based tattoos in Tennessee.
Built on military values—and a little Hollywood
You might recognize Jason from his appearances on Marked: Military Edition, a reality series exploring the connections between ink and service. That experience shaped more than just his visibility—it honed his storytelling instincts.
“The show taught me how to listen better—to pull out stories that deserve to be seen on skin,” he says.
That skillset, combined with the precision and discipline honed in his military years, gives his work a level of intentionality that’s rare in the industry.
“Every piece I do is custom because every story is different,” he says. “Whether it’s a skull, a cross, or your grandma’s dog—I got you.”
Inside the studio: A Peek At The Space
The Hendersonville studio, co-curated with his wife, Staci, is more than just a workspace—it’s an experience. The suite blends spa-like calm with serious ink gear: pro-grade chairs, clean layout, and walls adorned with both client art and military memorabilia.
Here’s what you’ll see when you walk in:
- A private, appointment-only studio—no random walk-ins.
- Custom digital previews before the needle hits skin.
- A vibe that says “relax and talk to me,” not “hurry up and pick a design.”
Booking Your Own Story in Ink
Jason is now booking consultations for new clients who want work that tells a story—not just fills space. If you’re looking for a tattoo shop in Nashville, TN that values collaboration, meaning, and detail over speed or flash, you might’ve found your spot.
You can learn more about Jason’s approach here or hit up his Instagram for recent pieces and studio updates.
📍 Want to find the place? Check out the map to Elvis Tattoo Shop (just call ahead or schedule a consultation to make sure we can roll out the welcome mat—and keep things private for the client in the chair).
