Tattoo Creepers: Shane Wallin

This weeks featured artist is Shane Wallin from Garnet Tattoo in San Diego, CA. Shane customized the Black TUKskin™ 3-Buckle Pointed Creeper Boots. 

To check out more of his work head to his Instagram 

Tell me about yourself.

My name is Shane Wallin. I am a 46-year-old father of three daughters and two beautiful grandkids. I was born and raised in Minnesota. I opened Twilight Tattoo in Minneapolis in 2001. Over the next 19 years I had the opportunity to work alongside many talented tattooers. My family and I relocated to San Diego five years ago. I opened Garnet Tattoo, A small private studio focusing on custom design and one on one service for my clientele. 

How long have you been tattooing for? 

I started tattooing in 1994 so, 26 years.

What made you want to become a tattoo artist? 

I spent my teens skateboarding and hanging around the punk rock scene. Tattooing and piercing were a huge part of that scene. I already had a passion for art, so it was a easy career choice. 

Why do you decide to customize the boots the way you did?

I wanted to go for a negative space look so I chose a black boot. I wanted to keep the design simple and bold complimenting the shape of the boots.

How was working on this project for you? 

It was really fun and a challenge. 

Are you currently working on any other projects? 

I am very close to completing a restoration on my 1978 Airstream trailer that was passed down to me from my grandfather.

How long have you been an artist for? 

Art was always a hobby and escape for me. I started to take my art seriously while I was in high school, even changing schools to attend school with a better art program

What's your favorite tattoo that you have and why?

It's hard to pick one. I am currently in the process of having my entire back tattooed by my longtime friend Levi Polzin. The design is Japanese style peonies. I also have a portrait of John Oates on my left leg I am extremely fond of.

Are you from San Diego? If not, why did you move here? 

 I am originally from Minneapolis. My family and I relocated to San Diego not only to escape the bitter tundra but also seek out new opportunities. I enjoy working in many styles of decorative tattooing, I also specialize in scar, breast cancer and gender confirmation tattooing. I had no idea my career would take this path. I love my clientele and changing the way people feel about themselves.

How have you been keeping busy during the quarantine? 

Besides tattooing, metal fabrication and motorcycles are my passion. I rebuilt a 1970 Norton commando motorcycle start to finish during the quarantine.