It was only fitting that my first tattoo be in honor of my beloved grandmother. Though she past away more than fifteen years ago, her spirit, love, energy and memory are with me everyday. I knew a tattoo of “our” favorite flower would be the perfect homage for someone I adored. After all, tattoos are for life, so they better be meaningful.
Enter, Malia Reynolds. Amazing and talented.
After graduating from college with a degree in graphic design, Malia made the (wise) choice not to compete in that crazy job market. Instead, she listened to her friends who urged her to become a tattoo artist.
This tattoo started it all for me… A gardenia on my shoulder for my Grandmother. We consulted on the design and it’s placement. And though it hurt like a bitch, Malia was gentle, tender and very pleasant. The devil’s music (Metal – not Malia’s choice) played in the background and kept me somewhat distracted. I knew I’d be back…
and then came this… Not all at once! Over the last few years, Malia and I have worked closely on the design. Malia is as great a listener as she is an artist. She takes pride in her work and wants to make the client happy as well.
Coral snake. When consulting with a tattooer, it is important to remember they are artists, and even though you are “commissioning” art on your body, its bests to allow the tattooer’s style and vision to be present in the work. Malia and I have a great professional relationship that respects this idea. I’ll come up with the subject matter for a design and Malia develops the concept through her artistic interpretation. After a final consultation, we’re ready to start. This has always been a quick an easy process for me because I love Malia’s work so much.
before & after, ink
The sleeve we’ve been working on all summer. This was my third visit since June. Malia started on the color this time. My next visit, in two weeks, will continue with color, followed by more outlining, in later sessions.
A panoramic view of Malia’s studio at Memorial Tattoo.
I’ve been thoroughly happy, thrilled, delighted and impressed with Malia’s work. We have plans for many more tattoos. Atlanta is very lucky to have a tattooer as talented as Malia, who is making a name for herself quickly within field. If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo or in the market for an artist, I can attest that Malia Reynolds is one of the very best in the city. You can find her at Memorial Tattoo on Moreland Avenue. You’ll love Memorial Tattoo as well. From the welcoming smile of Lee Yarbrough at the front desk to the friendly visits from owner and gifted artist, Phil Colvin, Memorial offers you an inviting and relaxed environment.
Memorial Tattoo is located at 809 Moreland Avenue Atlanta, GA, 30316 . 404-622-9222
Find them on Facebook: Memorial Tattoo
Find Malia on Facebook: Malia Reynolds Artist
fashionado
Tags: artist, design, fashion, gardenia, gardenias, ink, Malia Reynolds, Memorial Tattoo, Phil Colvin, tattoo, tattoo artist, tattooer, tattoos
I never knew you had all those tattoos you cover it so well. I do not have one tattoo I’m so scared of needles! Your tats are gorg!
Thank you O Fabulous One! I love my tattoos and I know how to wear them well, whether I’m in a tank top or tux!
I am an avid Malia fan as well! I started getting work done by her when she was still at 454 in Encinitas, CA, and have not been able to find anyone else that I want to sit for. I anxiously away her December visits so we can have our appointment to finish my sleeve, and begin something new! Thank you so much for writing this article about your experience with her. She is so talented and definitely deserves the public praise!
Corinne. AGREED! I love Malia and couldn’t imagine anyone else working on me! Thank you for supporting my blog:)
vincent
Here in Oregon people love to cover themselves with tattoos. It’s sort of hobby with us. So I am always interested in seeing what others are doing and learning new things. Thanks for the post.