04/19/2026
About 4 years ago, I went searching around Augusta for an apprenticeship. After continuous rejection, I happened to stumble upon a Facebook ad for a tattoo artist at Redeemed. With no shop experience, I didn’t think I was ready, but something told me to reach out anyway. Billy asked me to come in for an interview. I was a little scared because Billy can be a little intimidating at first lol, but he was very kind. I told him up front that I had never had an apprenticeship, had never worked at a shop, and also was military, so I could not work full time. He looked at my work and seen something in me that I didn’t see in myself, and he gave me the job.
He was supposed to give me a 30 day trial run to see if we worked well together, then he would give me my own set of keys to the shop. It had only been a week and some change and he gave me keys. He said something along the lines of “I just trust you; it’s something about your energy!” I knew then that I would be there for the long run.
Thank you so much, Billy for believing in me when I didn’t, and giving me the greatest opportunity to know you and work in your shop. I’ve learned so much from you - lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
I’m going to miss yelling “BILLY!!” and you yelling “HENNY!!” everytime I enter the shop. I’m going to miss our banter and your jokes! I’m going to miss your random outbursts of singing in the shop. Or you jokingly hovering over me while I tattoo because you knew it made me nervous. I would slowly look up at you and we would both just burst into laughter. I’m going to miss being able to confide in each other and being able to come to each other about anything with no judgement. I’m going to miss the stories of your younger days; your words of wisdom; your kindness. I’m going to miss it all.
You are such an amazing human being, Billy! Energy is neither created or destroyed, so I know you will always be here with us. I love you ❤️❤️
Also, thank you to all that reached out to check on me. It means the world. A lot have asked where I will be tattooing from now on, and the truth is: I have no clue! But as soon as I figure that out, I will let you all know. Have a great rest of your weekend ❤️
Redeemed PiercingsbyBilly & Tattoos
Billy Knuckles
And thank you William Formisano & Mrs. Denise for allowing me to complete my last tattoo in the shop today!
