I started my apprenticeship under Cory Sheppard of Punktuer ( Joplin,Mo.) in 2008. After purchasing and assembling two disassembled Green Monster Tattoo machines from an Eikon catalog, per Cory's instruction, my tattoo career took off.

From 2009 to 2011, I continued to work at Punktuer. I moved on to Blacklist Ink of Joplin later in 2011. Here I truly feel my understanding of the many levels of tattooing began to broaden. I experimented with many different styles and machines and developed my own methods.

In January 2016, alongside another artist, I opened Brickhaus Tattoo Studio.

October 1st 2018, 10 years after starting my journey in the tattoo industry, I started B.A.’s Tattoo Studio. For two and a half years, I called that Carthage, MO studio my business home, but sadly was flooded out in February ‘21. That month, freezing temperatures caused rolling black outs resulting in busted water and sewer lines. A literal sh** storm of damages.

March 1st 2021 I relocated to Studio C (Joplin, Mo). It was while I worked here that I started the process of becoming licensed in Kansas with the goal of building a private studio on my land in southeast Kansas.

February ‘22, after receiving my Kansas license, I joined the team at Odd Animals in Pittsburg, KS. I stayed there while I finished preparing the final location of B.A.’s Tattoo Studio.

Now you can find me at 1124 S 108th St McCune, KS. I have a private studio on my property in the country.

The Tiger

Several have asked me why I chose a tiger to signify my studio. This tiger is specifically one named Machli. Her story is one of strength and independence but also of adversities and support. She was a force to be reckoned with but had help from time to time. I felt a connection with her story. I, like her, and regardless of determination, would not have gained so much or made it to where I have in life, without help along the way. I have my family, friends and past co-workers and teacher to thank in part for my ability to do what I love