Of Ink and Art: Long Beach Tattoo Studios
It may be surprising that a large part of a tattoo studio’s business comes from tourists. Out-of-town ink certainly makes sense in Long Beach, where both city and tattoo studios are worthy of memorializing: a rich history as a port town and artistic haven make it one of the nation’s great inking destinations. From history-making to state-of-the-art, traditional to cutting edge, here are some studios that continue to make their mark.
ALF’S BODY ART STUDIO
Located in bustling Belmont Shore, Alf's Body Art Studio (5347 E Second St) offers not only a safe space with terrific artists knowledgeable in a variety of styles–Japanese, black and grey, fine line, traditional–but an atmosphere both vibrant and relaxing. Step onto their beautiful balcony above Second Street for some great people watching and peaceful vibes before or after your appointment.
OUTER LIMITS TATTOO
This site has the distinction of being the nation’s oldest tattoo shop, having operated as such since 1927. Fittingly, Outer Limits Tattoo (22 S Chestnut Pl) features a small tattoo museum, but make no mistake, this place doesn’t live in the past. It remains a vibrant, forward thinking space with about a dozen exceptional artists including owner Kari Barba, an absolute legend in the industry. Clean and welcoming, Outer Limits also offers cosmetic tattooing as well as private rooms available upon request.
PAPER CRANE TATTOO STUDIO
Paper Crane Tattoo Studio (530 E Broadway) provides a wide swath of styles, from Japanese traditional to avant-garde to quality black-and-gray as well as full color designs. Having recently celebrated its 20-year anniversary, the studio employs both the latest technology with traditional tools. Its artists strive not only to create beautiful images but also to craft authentic stories that last a lifetime. Located in the heart of the East Village Arts District, the studio offers a sanctuary for self-expression with its semi-private studio separated from passersby.
THE RAVEN AND THE WOLVES
As you might expect from a tattoo studio that is also a fine art gallery, The Raven and The Wolves (212 The Promenade N) combines an open, hygienic and hypercool atmosphere with an emphasis on artistic expression. Many consider co-owner Carlos Torres to be among the world’s best black and gray artists and his style has been influential with a generation of his colleagues. Located on the Promenade in Downtown Long Beach, The Raven and The Wolves’ open concept makes for a bright, open, beautiful space.
PORT CITY TATTOO
Port City Tattoo (4290 Outer Traffic Circle) is the kind of place that accepts walk-ins every day–appointments are also available. Clients are welcome to bring in any drawing, personal photograph, printed design or ideas and work with artists to create a custom tattoo that not only looks great, but also fits their body. Striving to create exceptional works of body art, and placing an emphasis on comfort and safety, no job is too big or too small.
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