Friday, January 25, 2008

Republic of Texas Alternative Arts Series Mixes Music with Tattoo

Republic of Texas Tattoo Studio manager Jon Claeton, and fellow tattooer Donny Silverman, have combined their love of music with their talent for ink to create the Republic of Texas Alternative Arts Series. A bi-weekly event held at their 2000 Southern Oaks Drive location in South Austin, the series features free live performances by local artists, in addition to their body art services.

In the "Live Music Capital of the World" combining these two creative arts seemed a natural progression. "Tattoos and music have gone together since the beginning of rock-n-roll," says tattooer Donny Silverman. "As all the arts have evolved, including music and tattooing ... it's cool to have -- and be a part of -- this little public outlet that's open to presenting all of it!" Jon Claeton, manager of the Republic of Texas Tattoo Studio, believes they've hit on a magic combination.

"The creative process is always heightened by music, and having live music here is great for tattooing." Claeton went on to say that "tattooing to live music is the best ... thing that ever happened." The opening show of the series was held January 15, 2008 and featured Audiopium, who performed electric jazz funk. Free pizza from Austin Pizza and beverages were provided to everyone who stopped by.

Upcoming performances include The Nematoads on 1/29, a benefit for KOOP radio on Fat Tuesday (2/5) featuring music by the Bustamoovalators and authentic Louisiana cuisine provided by Jad Duplechain, Harry Bodine on 2/19, and Carl Smith & ECFA on 2/26. Tentative future performances include Graham Reynolds, Chris Duarte, and Big Star Burlesque. Admission is free, and complimentary food and beverages are served. Donations for the series and band tips are accepted. Performers may sell CDs, DVDs, t-shirts, etc.
Source: PRNewswire

1 comment:

Unknown said...

Go elsewhere for quality tattoo work! Had a good idea hacked up by Donny. Tribal mask turned bad into a bobble head doll! An imposter of an artist. Guy must be on drugs. He carries a pissy attitude to boot. Will act impatient when you try to explain something to him and make you uncomfortable by staying mute the entire time he tears your flesh with the needle. My tattoo took a month to heal. Parlor is more like a seedy hangout with child care services. Lots of weird things to look at. And one guy has his two boys there a lot. I have it from another honest tattoo artist in town many of them there do meth. Go there if you want a Ripley's experience with jacked-up scratchers babbling around you constantly. Do not go here for quality work or professional service. I have terrible ink on my forearm that will need to be covered up somehow. A terrible experience all around. Don't take any chances here!