I am no novice to tattoos. I have about 20% of my body covered in beautiful pieces, all done by two artists that I trust very highly. Neither of them are in LA, and when my beloved cat of 21 years passed away on my wedding night I knew I needed to honor him with the most important tattoo of my life. The problem....where to find the perfect artist to properly honor my little one?
Upon seeing the History Channel piece on tattoo history, I was impressed by the Zulu Tattoo shop and wanted to check it out more. I had already met with four other artists who I knew immediately were not right for me, and had perused countless artist books. I emailed Catherine and she responded right away with her suggestion for my particular needs. I made the consult appointment with Lantz as per her suggestion.
The shop is beautiful,VERY clean, but warm, none of that "stark" feel. Catherine is lovely and helpful and Lantz was right on time for our appointment. Two minutes with him and I knew he was the perfect person, just as it was suggested he would be. We discussed the piece and they went out of their way to fit me in before I left the country for a long business trip.
It has been 12 years or so since my last piece, and I was admittedly a bit nervous. Lantz made me feel at ease and talked to me to keep me distracted through the toughest parts. He finished it in a very short time considering the great detail (did not milk the clock like some artists will) and the results? INCREDIBLE. The colors are so vibrant, the detail so beautiful, and he captured the essence of my little beast so perfectly it seems like he is a photograph.
Needless to say, I am ecstatic with the whole experience, beginning to end. I even chatted a little with Mischa, who is really lovely, and got a sample of both hers and King Afa's work while i was there and was very impressed...If this is your first, or 21st piece, this is your place!
Pros: Friendly, Clean, Highly skilled.
Cons: Parking - but they have very reasonable valet on certain days!
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