Today we’d like to introduce you to Martin Shaw.
Hi Martin, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve been an artist for more than 30 years, and tattooing has always been at the heart of my creative journey. Over the years, I’ve explored just about every style, but I’ve always been drawn to neo-traditional work; bold lines, vibrant color palettes, and custom designs that bring a unique story to life on skin. I started small, working out of a local flea market, and eventually opened Mad Tatter Studios, which grew into its own dedicated space. For a decade, I operated out of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, before taking a few years off to focus on other life goals and personal growth. Today, I’m settled in Waterford, Michigan, where I live with my wife and our two teenage sons and I’m more inspired than ever to continue creating meaningful, one-of-a-kind art.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve been around since the days when tattooing was still considered taboo; something only associated with bikers, criminals, or rebels. Breaking through those old stereotypes and helping people see tattooing as a legitimate art form was a challenge in itself. On top of that, working in a busy tourist town like Gatlinburg came with its own hurdles. Most people wanted simple designs; wedding dates, outlines of bears or mountains, when all I wanted was to create meaningful, artistic pieces that really pushed creativity. And of course, after years of long hours, I started battling carpal tunnel symptoms, which made the physical side of tattooing tough at times. But through all of it, I stayed focused and driven, and I’m proud to say Mad Tatter Studios became the top-performing shop in East Tennessee and earned a reputation as the go-to place for high-quality cover-up work.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in neo-traditional tattooing, which blends the bold lines and classic foundation of traditional tattoos with modern color theory and detailed illustrative work. My goal has always been to create pieces that feel alive; vibrant, story-driven, and completely custom to the person wearing them. Over the years, I’ve become known for my bold use of color, smooth blending, and ability to transform old or unwanted tattoos into brand-new works of art through cover-ups. That’s actually one of the things I’m most proud of, giving people a second chance to love the skin they’re in again.
What really sets me apart is that I see tattooing as a collaboration between artist and client. I take the time to listen, understand their story, and design something that not only looks good but means something. After three decades in this industry, I still approach every tattoo like it’s the most important one I’ll ever do, because for that person, it is
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happiest is being able to create, to take someone’s idea or emotion and turn it into something lasting and meaningful. There’s nothing quite like seeing the look on a client’s face when they see their tattoo finished for the first time and realize it’s exactly what they imagined, or even better. That connection, that moment of trust and appreciation, is what keeps me passionate after all these years.
Outside of tattooing, I’m happiest spending time with my family. My wife and our boys are my grounding force. After decades of long hours in the studio, I’ve learned that happiness isn’t just about the art you create, it’s about the life and love that surround it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.madtatterstudios.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madtatterstudios
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madtatterstudiosgatlinburg
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madtatterstudios
