We had the good fortune of connecting with Ian Messerli and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ian, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my career in the shop that I now own. When the previous owner was ready to retire I felt like I needed to keep things going for myself, the staff and the community. I took over the business from that point on.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I had been a graphic artist and screen printer for around 12 years before I started tattooing. My aspirations since childhood had been to go into comic book art. That informed a lot of my style for years. My grandmother is a painter who pushed me forward and motivated me. Once I got involved in the tattoo industry I studied a myriad of artists, styles, cultural influences on art and tattoos. It helped broaden my approach as well as what inspired me going forward. I am still learning all the time and being motivated by the people I work with as well as the growing number of artists and tattooers that are on social media.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I moved here in 1993 to be a part of the music scene, so Andy’s and Rubber Gloves are two important places for me and our community. When I was younger I had a great love for Lucky Lou’s, These days I think that Eastside or Harvest House are more my speed.

I love supporting businesses like Roman’s Pizza, Graffiti Pasta, New York Sub and Denton Independent Hamburgers. My wife and I are both theater people, so we love going to Theatre Denton. Having places like Roses Costumes, Old Bear Vintage, and Recycled Books are what keep the spirit of Denton unique and thriving.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mentor, Clay Terronez had taken over the shop from “Smilin” Rick Chisholm. He saw something in me and took me under his wing, gave me a career, and later a business. Our artists Dallas Clifton and Jordan Townsend have been integral in keeping me and the shop going.

Website: https://smilinrickstattoos.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smilinricks?igsh=NGRlOHN1ZHZ2a2Uz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/GfhoQqtYcoehUsMx/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.