I was born in 1969 in Toledo Ohio. I showed an interest in art at an early age (being removed from class for drawing in the second grade.) I attended Waite high school where I took as many art classes as were allowed, graduating in 1987. Years later I attended the University of Toledo from 1992-1993, where I continued my education in the fine arts and studied English, anthropology, and Japanese.

I never served a traditional apprenticeship in tattooing. At that time the doors were closed pretty tight to newcomers, so I struck out on my own. I struggled early on to overcome the tattoo medium, becoming frustrated and discouraged at times. Part of my education consisted of getting tattooed by others in the industry that I respected. It was in this manner that I learned the most about tattooing. Collecting tattoos from Little Vinnie, Dave Waugh, Kim Saigh, Kevin LeBlanc, Jon Clue and Guy Aitchison, to name a few.

I opened my own studio, Infinite Art, in November of 1994. I wanted a tattoo studio where people could communicate with their artists and realize their visions, without being talked down to or feeling intimidated.

I started sending my work to tattoo magazines and ended up getting a couple of articles published, one in TATTOO and one in Outlaw Biker’s Tattoo Revue. This helped immensely in clients being comfortable trusting me with larger more complex pieces. I am a better artist today because tattooing has allowed me to refine my art.

I try to remain as versatile as possible for my clients as they continue to challenge me. I love tattooing and don’t really turn anything down. As far as favorite subject matter to tattoo, I would have to say anything that flows well. Composition, to me, is of utmost importance when it comes to something looking aesthetically pleasing to the eye on the human form. My interested are very expansive and include, science fiction, past cultures, space, film, Japan, abstract art, nature, insects and many more. Whenever possible these themes will make it into a tattoo I may be working on. I try not to limit myself and my clients constantly push me to find new ways to express myself through tattoos. I also love the challenge of cover-ups. There is a certain degree of expertise involved in rendering a successful cover-up and I revel in the challenge and limitation this provides me. It forces me to be more focused.

The tattoos I have started recently are among some of my favorites I have ever done. I thank all my clients who have placed their trust in me and allowed me to tattoo them. It is an honor and without them, I would not be where I am today. Thank you. MONK