MASTER MENTORS
World Class Internationally Renowned Tattoo Artist Mentors
ROBBIE RIPOLL
Season 5 of Ink Master
You might recognize Robbie from Season 5 of Ink Master, where he wowed audiences with his excellent skills and fresh ideas. His time on the show wasn’t just about competing—it was about showing the world what’s possible when passion meets talent. For many, it sparked a new dream of diving into the tattoo industry and learning how to become a tattoo artist.
Robbie also runs Rad Ink Tattoo in sunny Melbourne, Florida, a tattoo studio where creativity and quality shine bright. His tattoo studio isn’t just a place to get inked; it’s a space where clients feel welcomed, tattoo artists feel inspired, and everyone leaves with a story to tell. Robbie’s built Rad Ink into more than just a tattoo studio, it’s a hub for transformation and self-expression.
LIZ COOK
TLC’s Tattoo Girls
Meet Liz Cook, a force in the tattoo community renowned for her breathtaking color realism. Hailing from South Louisiana and growing up in Dallas, Texas, Liz's artistic journey led her to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Painting and Drawing from the University of North Texas. Her passion for art seamlessly transitioned into the world of tattooing, where she has made a significant impact.
Beyond her studio work, Liz Cook also gained national recognition through her appearance on TLC’s Tattoo Girls, where she showcased her expertise and navigated the dynamics of an all-female tattoo shop, further solidifying her reputation as a powerhouse in the industry.
GABE JAKSICH
Let’s talk about Gabe Jaksich—a true trailblazer in the tattoo world with over 40 years of experience. Gabe isn’t just a tattoo artist; he’s a mentor, innovator, and someone who’s helped countless individuals become tattoo artists and shape their careers around the globe.
His journey began in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he opened one of the city’s first retail tattoo studios in 1989, kickstarting the modern tattoo scene in South America. In 1995, Gabe brought his passion and talent to the United States, where he quickly made waves. Gabe's career has been nothing short of extraordinary, from winning awards at tattoo conventions to breaking new ground in cosmetic tattooing. He’s a pioneer in microblading, permanent makeup, and paramedical aesthetics, using tattoos to make a real difference in people’s lives.
RYAN ETERNAL
Season 5 of Ink Master
You might recognize Ryan Eternal from Season 5 of Ink Master, where he wowed audiences with his excellent skills and fresh ideas. His time on the show wasn’t just about competing—it was about showing the world what’s possible when passion meets talent.
With over two decades of experience, he has earned a reputation as a skilled tattoo artist with an eye for intricate detail and a deep respect for the history and evolution of tattooing. His work reflects a fusion of precision, storytelling, and emotion, setting him apart in the tattoo community. For many, it sparked a new dream of diving into the tattoo industry and learning how to become a tattoo artist.
Ryan's journey through the competitive landscape of Ink Master and his ongoing contributions to the tattoo community underscore his passion and commitment to the art form.
JOEY TATTOO
Spike TV’s Tattoo Rescue
Beyond the chair, Joey has been featured on Spike TV’s Tattoo Rescue, where he traveled the country helping struggling tattoo shops rebuild and improve.
Joey Tattoo is a veteran in the tattoo industry, with over 26 years of experience and an impressive portfolio of more than 17,000 tattoos. His journey began at 19 when he designed his own first tattoo and was offered an apprenticeship on the spot. That moment sparked a lifelong passion that led him to become one of the most well-respected tattoo artists and shop owners in the industry.
Throughout his career, Joey has apprenticed eleven tattoo artists, many of whom have gone on to achieve industry recognition. His ability to master multiple tattooing styles stems from a time when artists had to be versatile, though today, he is best known for his black and gray realism.
CRUSH CAPTAIN
Crush Captain, also known as Alejandro Guzmán, is a highly regarded tattoo artist specializing in vibrant, anime-inspired designs. With over a decade of experience in the industry, he has built a reputation for his bold color work, dynamic compositions, and dedication to bringing animated characters to life on skin. His signature style, marked by deep color saturation and precise shading, has earned him a loyal following and a place among the top anime tattoo artists in the industry.
Based in Bethesda, Maryland, Crush Captain has been featured in some of the most prestigious tattoo conventions, including the Hell City Tattoo Festival, where his Naruto-inspired pieces have gained widespread recognition. He continuously refines his craft through experimentation and education, ensuring that every tattoo he creates stands out as a striking work of art.
BoneFace
Ink Master Season 8 & 9
Anwon "Boneface" Johnson is one of the most recognizable names in tattooing today. Known for his bold personality and even bolder realism tattoos, Boneface started in the late 1990s and has been pushing artistic boundaries ever since.
Boneface rose to national fame through his appearances on Ink Master Seasons 8 and 9, where his artistry and unique point of view quickly caught the attention of both the judges and the audience. But long before the lights of reality TV, Boneface was already building a reputation for creating unforgettable work pieces that carry emotional depth and visual intensity.
JORDI PLA
Ink Master Season 13
Jordi Alejandro Pla, known as Jordi Pla, is a powerhouse in the world of tattooing, recognized for his electrifying color realism and high-contrast compositions.
With years of experience under his belt, Jordi has developed a reputation for pushing artistic boundaries, blending striking color palettes with intricate detail to bring his tattoos to life.
His passion for the craft and dedication to innovation make him a standout artist in the industry.
Kyle Dunbar
Ink Master Season 3 & 4
Kyle Dunbar is a self-taught Tattoo Artist from Flint, Michigan, with over 30 years of experience in the tattoo industry. He gained national recognition through his appearances on Seasons 3 and 4 of Ink Master, where his bold tattoo designs and unfiltered personality made a lasting impression. In 2003, Kyle opened Almighty Tattoo in Flint, establishing a space that reflects his commitment to artistic freedom and innovation. Currently, he tattoos full-time at Drunken Monkey Tattoo in Saginaw, Michigan, and travels extensively for tattoo conventions and guest spots.
James Vaughn
Ink Master Season 1 and 7
James Vaughn is a celebrated Tattoo Artist known for his powerful fusion of traditional American tattooing with modern design techniques. With over 30 years of experience, James has established a reputation not only as a Tattoo Artist but also as a cultural figure within the tattoo industry. He is the proud owner of Straight A Tattoo in Asheboro, North Carolina, a tattoo studio that has become a destination for tattoo enthusiasts from around the country.
James rose to national fame with his unforgettable appearances on Ink Master Seasons 1 and 7, where his bold style, deep industry knowledge, and larger-than-life personality made a lasting impact. Beyond television, James is respected by his peers for his mentorship, his dedication to the craft, and his role in preserving the rich traditions of tattooing.
MARCEL OLIVEIRA
Marcel Oliveira is a master Tattoo Artist with over twenty years of experience, creating tattoos in the styles of black-and-gray realism and portraiture. Originally from Brazil and now based in Miami, Florida, Marcel has impacted the tattoo industry with his impeccable technique and deep artistic sensitivity. He is the owner of RIFF CULT Tattoo Shop and previously worked at the renowned Miami Ink-LoveHate Tattoos.
Marcel's tattooing skills transcend cultural boundaries, earning awards and recognition in Brazil, Argentina, and the United States. He’s known for his precision and dedication to his craft. Now, he embarks on a journey of mentoring aspiring Tattoo Artists and inspiring clients worldwide through his art.
Candy Dunbar
Candy Dunbar is a seasoned paramedical camouflage cosmetic Tattoo Artist and permanent makeup specialist with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Based in Flint, Michigan, she is the owner and lead artist at Almighty Tattoo, a studio known for its commitment to tattooing and client care. Candy has also been a prominent figure at Villain Arts conventions, showcasing her work and making significant contributions to the tattoo community.
Her expertise extends beyond traditional tattooing; Candy is renowned for her work in permanent cosmetics, offering services that have been life-changing for clients, including cancer and burn patients. Her dedication to helping others through her art has made her a respected and beloved figure in the tattoo world.
Become a Tattoo Artist in USA
Join the $2.2B Tattoo Economy – Your Journey to Artistic Success Starts Here!
The tattoo industry is booming, with a global market value of $2.2 billion and growing. It offers endless opportunities for aspiring artists to turn their passion into a lucrative career. From creative expression to financial independence, the industry is thriving like never before.
$51511
Average First-year Income of a Tattoo Artist in USA
21000+
Tattoo Studios in USA and Growing !
$106868
According to Zip Recruiter, Average Annual Income of a Tattoo Artist in USA
Got Questions? We're Here to Help!
The Master Mentor program brings together an elite group of internationally renowned tattoo artists who have achieved recognition through television appearances, award-winning work, and decades of industry experience. These master artists serve as mentors to guide aspiring tattoo artists through their journey into the thriving $2.2 billion tattoo industry.
Featured Master Mentors
Television Stars & Industry Icons
Robbie Ripoll – Ink Master Season 5
- Television personality who captivated audiences with innovative techniques
- Owner of Rad Ink Tattoo in Melbourne, Florida
- Focuses on creating transformative experiences for both clients and artists
- Known for fostering creativity and maintaining high-quality standards
Liz Cook – TLC’s Tattoo Girls
- Specializes in breathtaking color realism
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Painting and Drawing from University of North Texas
- Featured on TLC’s Tattoo Girls showcasing expertise in all-female shop dynamics
- Background spans South Louisiana and Dallas, Texas
Ryan Eternal – Ink Master Season 5
- Over two decades of experience in intricate detail work
- Known for fusion of precision, storytelling, and emotion
- Demonstrates deep respect for tattoo history and evolution
- Competed alongside Robbie Ripoll on Ink Master
BoneFace (Anwon Johnson) – Ink Master Seasons 8 & 9
- Bold realism specialist active since late 1990s
- Known for both artistic skill and distinctive personality
- Creates emotionally deep and visually intense pieces
- National recognition through multiple Ink Master appearances
Jordi Pla – Ink Master Season 13
- Master of electrifying color realism and high-contrast compositions
- Pushes artistic boundaries with striking color palettes
- Combines intricate detail with innovative techniques
- Recognized for dedication to craft evolution
Kyle Dunbar – Ink Master Seasons 3 & 4
- Self-taught artist with 30+ years experience from Flint, Michigan
- Owner of Almighty Tattoo, currently at Drunken Monkey Tattoo
- Known for bold designs and unfiltered personality
- Extensive convention and guest spot experience
James Vaughn – Ink Master Seasons 1 & 7
- 30+ years fusing traditional American with modern techniques
- Owner of Straight A Tattoo in Asheboro, North Carolina
- Cultural figure within the tattoo industry
- Recognized for mentorship and tradition preservation
International Masters & Specialists
Gabe Jaksich – Pioneer & Innovator
- Over 40 years of global experience
- Opened one of Buenos Aires’ first retail tattoo studios (1989)
- Pioneer in microblading, permanent makeup, and paramedical aesthetics
- Award-winning convention participant and industry mentor
Joey Tattoo – Spike TV’s Tattoo Rescue
- 26 years experience with 17,000+ tattoos completed
- Featured on Spike TV’s Tattoo Rescue helping struggling shops
- Apprenticed 11 tattoo artists, many achieving industry recognition
- Specialist in black and gray realism
Crush Captain (Alejandro Guzmán) – Anime Specialist
- Decade+ experience in vibrant anime-inspired designs
- Based in Bethesda, Maryland
- Featured at Hell City Tattoo Festival with Naruto-inspired work
- Known for deep color saturation and precise shading
Marcel Oliveira – International Realism Master
- 20+ years in black-and-gray realism and portraiture
- Originally from Brazil, now based in Miami, Florida
- Owner of RIFF CULT Tattoo Shop, formerly at Miami Ink-LoveHate Tattoos
- Award recognition across Brazil, Argentina, and United States
