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
Friday, January 25, 2008
Republic of Texas Alternative Arts Series Mixes Music with Tattoo
Ordinance prohibits tattoo shops but allows body piercing
If you’re planning on getting ink in DeKalb, you’d better be talking about pens.
It may come as a surprise for students interested in getting a tattoo in their college’s town, but DeKalb has an ordinance prohibiting the operation of tattoo parlors.
“I’m really surprised that DeKalb doesn’t have any tattoo parlors, because, being a college town, most people would assume there would be some,” said Megan Laurent, a nutrition and dietetics major.
The tattoo ordinance took effect in May 1991.
“[It came about when] someone opened a parlor in downtown DeKalb,” said DeKalb City Clerk Donna Johnson. “At that time, city council didn’t want a tattoo parlor in the city and came up with the ordinance.”
The ordinance, found under Municipal 11.04 states, “It shall be unlawful for any person to tattoo a human being, except that tattooing may be performed for medical purpose by a person licensed or otherwise authorized by the State of Illinois to practice medicine or osteopathy.”
Although NIU existed in 1991, the social landscape was different, and tattoos were not as commonplace among college students.
“In 1991, the opinion of tattoos were not as they are today,” Johnson said. “They are more socially acceptable now.”
Even though DeKalb prohibits tattoos, body-piercing businesses can be successful without relying on tattoo profits.
“The college is only one-third of our business,” said Kenny Weinstock, owner of Out On A Whim, 127 E. Lincoln Highway.
Even if DeKalb did allow tattoo parlors, body-piercing businesses would most likely not see a huge profit, especially coming from students.
“A lot of college kids can’t afford tattooing,” Weinstock said. “Tattooing can be very expensive.”
Although the ordinance has existed for over ten years, it could potentially be revoked in the future.
“Over the years, we’ve had different people contacting us, asking if they can open a business here,” Johnson said. “No one has ever wanted to go so far as to ask city council to change the ordinance.”
By Sam Brunell
Source: Northern Star Online
Friday, May 4, 2007
Looking For Tattoo Designs
You can hardly look anywhere without seeing someone whose been inked. I’m mature enough not to be under any pressure from my peers. I’ve done my homework about tattoos and feel comfortable about the tattoo designs I want.
I definitely decided not to go to the shop and browse through the worn-out catalogs I’ve seen in the 5 shops I’ve visited. Like the cleanliness, hate the catalogs (By The Way, You'll Love The Designs At These Shops
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Think about this: You don't have to settle for the designs you see at the first or even the first 10 shops you visit. Don't allow yourself to feel pressured into making a design decision you're not 100% satisfied with.
If one artist can't do the design you want, move on. Believe me, there are talented artists out there who can do unbelievable work. Take your time and don't settle....get what you want.
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About The Author:
Alex Rich PhD is a hypnotherapist and a personal and business coach and wears his tattoos proudly. Who Has The Biggest Selection of Tattoo Designs On The Net? Click On Looking For Tattoo Designs
Copyright 2007 – Alex Rich, PhD. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
