Some Tattoo Artists “Thriving” Despite Economy

With many unemployed, and others having lost, or are losing their homes due to the economy, one artistic community seems to be doing just fine financially…the tattoo community in Logan Square.

The newest addition to the area’s tattoo scene is Esther Garcia’s Butterfat Tattoo on the 3100 block of Logan Boulevard that is set to open Thanksgiving weekend.

“All the things I hear about the economy are not true in my particular experience,” Garcia said. “I’ve been doing very well for quite a while.” Her faithful clientele have kept her business not only afloat but thriving. “I’ve managed to create enough demand for what I do that I’m not really affected by the economic situation.”

Just north of Milwaukee and Western is Omar Gutierrez’s Revolution Tattoo, where clients and work are still streaming in. Gutierrez says his shop has been “surprisingly recession-proof.”

Within a one-mile radius of the Milwaukee and Fullerton Avenue intersection, there are no less than six tattoo parlors.

“The popularity of tattoos is definitely growing a lot,” said Gutierrez.

Garcia thinks that today’s economy may actually be fueling the tattoo businesses in the area as people in facing possible financial hardships “are reminded that they want things that are well-made and will last their entire life.”

Logan Square resident Bob Chapman, believes business is business and says a number of tattoo shops is “better than having empty storefronts” throughout the neighborhood.