Chris Stuart has spent the past decade honing his skills, trying to perfect the passion that he truly loves: tattooing. For someone who describes his style as “less is more,” Stuart has taken Traditional Americana tattooing and put his subtle and personal touch upon the craft. Stuart can currently be found working alongside Rodney Raines and the talented crew at Ace Custom Tattoo in Charlotte, N.C.  We had the chance to pick his brain and find out what he loves about tattooing and life in general.

How long have you been tattooing? 

I am going on my twelfth year.

Do you have any formal art training? 

I never received any formal training.  My family tells me that as soon as I could hold a pencil I was sketching at all times.

What made you want to become a tattoo artist? 

I was always fascinated by the older tattoos that I would see from time to time at a young age…mainly military-style tattoos such as pinups, anchors, panthers, mom and dad hearts, etc.  My mom and dad let my uncle, Scott, who I always looked up to, take me to get my first tattoo about 16 years ago.  From then on, tattooing has been my art form of choice.

Did you do an apprenticeship?

I never really went through an apprenticeship.  I’d been getting tattooed by Randy Herring when I started to talk to him about my interest in tattooing.  I was gifted some tattoo equipment, and had been doing a few tattoos out of my house.  One day, Randy told me to bring my equipment and show him what I could do.  He hired me on the spot.  After that, I tried to learn as much as I could by getting tattooed, going to conventions, and learning from all of the great artists that surrounded me.  I am very fortunate to have gotten into this business the way I did.

How did you end up at Ace Custom? What’s it like working there?

I worked with a number of great artists while I was at Randy’s shop, one of them being Rodney Raines.  Shortly after Rodney left to work at Ace Custom Tattoo, I followed.  Working at Ace has been great.  Everyone there is different in so many ways, but no one has an ego or a “tattitude” whatsoever.  That combination can be very hard to find in this business. We’re all there to do the best tattoos we can, and make every client as happy as possible.  It’s a very relaxed environment, and I’m lucky to have a great clientele who keep me super busy. 

How would you describe your style? What are your favorite subjects to tattoo?

I would have to say less is more when describing my style.  I like to be able to recognize a tattoo from across the room and for many years after it’s been done.  I really enjoy tattooing Traditional Americana.  That style is so timeless, and is what initially drew me into this business.  However, I try to be very versatile and not limit myself too much. If it’s something that I’m not into, or my style doesn’t work for the client, I’ll do my best to lead them to the right artist.

Who are some of your influences?

The first influences that come to mind are Sailor Jerry, Scott Sylvia, Juan Puente, Grez, Mark Mahoney, Tim Hendricks, Seth Ciferri, Adam Barton, Mike Giant, Chris Conn, and Mike Wilson.  I could go on and on. There are so many for different reasons.

On a personal level, I would like to thank Rodney Raines and everyone at Ace Custom Tattoo. I would like to also thank my convention homies, Phil Colvin and Dave Kruseman, for joining me in burrito binges.

How do you feel about the current state of tattoo conventions?

I believe there are too many, which is both good and bad!  Good, in that people are able to experience different artists more frequently.  Bad, in that the quality of many conventions has gone way down.  It feels like anyone can throw together a convention now.  Few, however, can pull it off, leaving the public and tattooers happy and ready to return the next time around.

How has the tattoo industry changed since you’ve been in it?

The tattoo industry has changed in so many ways.   I never started tattooing for the money.  I loved the art and the honor of being a tattooer.  With things becoming more mainstream, many people are now trying to get into this business for quick money and fame.  For every new and amazing artist that comes into this industry, ten not-so-amazing ones follow. 

When I was starting to tattoo, I had to struggle to find cool stuff to get ideas from.  Now, it’s overwhelming how many resources are available.  New artists have it easier when it comes to finding reference for all styles, which is making them get better quicker. 

Where do you see tattooing in five to ten years?

I see it coming increasingly into the mainstream.  Hopefully, something good will come out of this recession and those “artists” who don’t really have a passion for this industry will weed themselves out. 

What is your favorite thing about being a tattoo artist?

Having the ability to see the world while doing something I love.  I enjoy being able to create art that will be worn by someone for the rest of their life.  That’s a real honor to me.

What do you like to do outside of tattooing?

I like to spend quality time with my family and friends.  Most of that time is spent eating good food!  Traveling for relaxation is always nice.  I probably spend too many lazy nights watching movies on Netflix. 

What is your favorite horror movie of all time?

Anyone who knows me knows that this would pretty much be impossible for me to answer.  I did watch Cannibal Holocaust on Christmas with my girlfriend…it definitely made it into my top five “gnarliest-ever” movies!

What is your deepest darkest secret?

Everyone knows I love Dirty Dancing, Purple Rain, and Grease.  What the hell else could be deeper and darker?

Any future plans or final words?

I plan to travel every chance I get and work to grow as an artist.  I take every day as it comes.  The day I stop wanting to learn more and work harder is the day I’ll stop doing what I do.  Thank you to everyone that has helped me along my path.  Rest in peace Uncle Scott…your inspiration has gotten me very far, and I look forward to what is to come.