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Getting tattooed in Colorado is a one-of-a-kind experience — from our mountain views to our mile-high air. But that same dry, high-altitude climate that makes our state beautiful can also be rough on your skin, especially when you’re about to get tattooed. If you’re getting your tattoo done at West Side Tattoo in Colorado Springs , here’s how to make sure your skin (and your artist) are fully prepped for the best possible results. 1. Hydrate Early — and Keep It Up Colorado’s

So, you’ve decided to get tattooed. You’ve got the idea, the enthusiasm, and maybe even a Pinterest board that’s three miles long. But now comes the tricky part—figuring out what style  you actually want. At West Side Tattoo in Colorado Springs , our crew covers just about every tattoo style you can imagine, from delicate fine-line pieces to full-color realism and bold traditional work. If you’ve ever wondered what all those styles actually mean, here’s your crash course. Fin

In the ever‐evolving world of tattoo art, few styles carry the weight and depth of black & grey realism. One artist who has been turning heads in this arena is Santiago Iriarte , based out of West Side Tattoo in Colorado Springs. Originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Iriarte brings a rare combination of technical mastery, emotional resonance, and bold vision. Early Life & Artistic Roots Santiago Iriarte hails from Bogotá, where he began tattooing roughly nine years ago. His early

When it comes to tattoos that feel alive, black and grey realism  is one of the most powerful styles — and few artists bring it to life...

Tattoos have been a form of self-expression and cultural significance for thousands of years. From ancient tribal markings to modern-day body art, tattoos tell stories, symbolize beliefs, and showcase creativity. This blog post delves into the fascinating history of tattoos, their artistic evolution, and practical insights for anyone considering getting inked. The Rich History of Tattoos Tattoos date back to prehistoric times, with evidence found on mummified remains and anci

Congrats, you survived the chair! You got stabbed by tiny needles thousands of times, you didn’t puke (hopefully), and now you’re walking...

Look, it happens. You’re not the first and you sure as hell won’t be the last. We stab you with tiny needles thousands of times per minute while your brain is busy trying to decide if you’re a warrior or a weak Victorian child about to pass out in a fainting couch. Here’s the deal: 1. Fainting is normal. Your blood sugar drops, your adrenaline spikes, your body goes: “Nope, shut it all down, we’re rebooting.”  Congrats, you’ve joined the proud tradition of people who take a n

If you’re looking for a tattoo artist in Colorado Springs  who delivers bold, powerful, and unforgettable work, look no further than Yoel Lopez  at West Side Tattoo. Known for his ability to transform large-scale ideas into striking, detailed tattoos, Yoel has become one of the most in-demand artists in the region. Bold Black & Grey Tattoos Yoel specializes in black and grey and color realism , crafting tattoos that combine dramatic contrast with fine, intricate detail. His p

When it comes to bold, playful, and unapologetically unique tattooing, Terioshi Otto  stands in a class of his own. Specializing in the...

At West Side Tattoo, we’re proud to have a family of artists whose dedication and creativity have defined our shop for years. Few...

Spotlight: Fine Line Artist Vicky Ellis