Tat Chat: Billy Keith’s Japanese Ink
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Annnnnd we’re back. Once again with a client from Fineline Tattoo. Like what you see? Maybe get a tattoo there.
Ladies and gents, meet Billy Keith. He’s a Japanese tattoo aficionado who’s pretty much covered neck to toes. Japanese tattooing dates back thousands of years. Irezumi (入れ墨, 入墨, 文) is the Japanese word for tattoo. The history is definitely worth checking out.
BB: Thanks for joining us, Billy. Besides spending your time getting inked, what do you do?
No problem. I am a mechanic and elevator repairman.
BB: Tell me about your ink.
99% of my tattoos were done at Fineline. All Japanese style done by Mehai Bakaty.
BB: Why Japanese style?
To me, it’s the most beautiful and detailed style.
BB: How did you find out about Fineline?
It was about 23 years ago. I saw an ad in the back of a tattoo magazine. They were operating out of a loft in the old McGurk’s Suicide Hall.
BB: What was your first tattoo?
I got this Grim Reaper by an artist named Uncle Bob in Texas when I was 16. Grew up in Queens, though.
BB: Any other hobbies?
Music. I play the drums and the guitar.
BB: Do you have a favorite tat?
The tiger on my stomach.
BB: No hesitation there – nice!
Yeah. Definitely my favorite.
BB: What does the writing down the center of your torso say?
I miss you like the flowers miss the rain.
BB: That’s sweet and so is your ink.
Thanks.
BB: Thank you!
Billy is basically running out of real estate. Check him out.
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