11/28/2017
Well folks it's been a good run but Monster Ink Atlanta will be shutting its doors for the last time the day after tomorrow.
I appreciate all the loving support and words of encouragement from my friends and clients, as this has been a very tough decision to face. The combined challenge of dealing with a landlord who definitively wants me out of the building along with trying to take on the full work load and responsibilities of a three-man studio on my own has just been too much on me. The last year has seen a massive decline in my QoL and mental health just trying to keep up. I should have shut down months ago, but every time one of you got in contact to beg me to stay open made me want to hold out just a little longer.
I don't think tattooing is over for me, but between the awful people I've had to work for in this industry and the thorough gaslighting I received from the last 'friend' I had working for me, I remain convinced I would rather try to make it on my own than try to find work at another studio working for another likely terrible human being. If you are a studio owner looking for another artist who would like to challenge that expectation (or if you're got booth space you'd be willing to cut out for someone needing a place to "guest spot" in-between shops), feel free to make your case to me via pm.
Otherwise, as soon as I am done getting my things moved out I'm starting fresh to look for studio space for one-two booths in Brookhaven, Doraville, or Tucker. The process of opening a shop can take anywhere from a few to several months depending on local regulations, but the goal is to get back into a sustainable work situation as soon as possible.
Love and Patience,
-A