John tattoos at his shop, Steel City in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.
What is your all-time favorite movie?
I watch too many movies to pick just one, Aliens is near the top of the list though.
What are you passionate about?
My wife and kids, tattooing, art, music and bikes.
Coffee, tea or Coca-Cola?
Coffee for sure, but I do enjoy some hot tea too.
What has Influenced your career?
Everyone I have ever worked with has had some influence on me. Being able to hear honest opinions and critiques from friends and peers has been an important part of driving me to get better.
What is your morning routine?
I usually wake up around 7 with the kids, make breakfast and get them ready for the day. I try to fit in a workout, then off to the shop by 11.
If you could interview one person, who would it be and why?
King Diamond, do I really need to explain?
Best advise you can give a new apprentice:
In this day of over saturation, don’t bother!!! If your gonna do it though, you have to give it your all. Pay attention, don’t get upset over critiques, and give respect to those that have come before you. Draw, draw, and draw some more!
Career Highlights
Realizing that I’ve been tattooing since 1991 and I’m still just as excited about it. There’s been lots of cool things along the way, but knowing there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing after all these years is awesome.