A History In Ink | Military.Com

A History In Ink | Military.Com

Note from the publisher: The walls are lined with tattoo memorabilia, including snarling panthers, rickety ships, and pin-up girls. The air is thick with the smell of ink and the hum of tattoo guns fills the air. I'm greeted by the shop's owner, Chris Keaton, who has a twinkle in his eye and a story to tell for every tattoo on the wall.

Chris has been running the shop for decades, and in that time, he's seen it all. From service members and veterans looking to commemorate their time in the military to civilians looking to express themselves through permanent art, the shop has been a sanctuary for those looking to tell their story through tattoos.

And Chris has been more than happy to oblige, using his century-old tattoo guns to create intricate and beautiful designs that will last a ⁘⁘⁘time.

As I explore the shop... I can't help but be struck by the cast of characters that have passed through its doors.
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Chris Keaton is the owner and operator of the Baltimore Tattoo Museum, a renowned tattoo shop in Baltimore, Maryland. Born and raised in Baltimore, Chris has been involved in the tattoo industry for over three decades. He has been recognized for his exceptional talent and dedication to the craft, having won numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.

Recently, Chris has been praised for his work in preserving the history of tattooing through the Baltimore Tattoo Museum. The museum, which he founded in 2015, is home to a vast collection of tattoo memorabilia, including vintage tattoo machines, photographs, and other artifacts. Chris has also been recognized for his efforts in promoting the art of tattooing through educational workshops and lectures, as well as through his involvement in local tattoo conventions and events.

In addition to his work at the Baltimore Tattoo Museum... Chris is also a highly respected tattoo artist in his own right. He has worked with clients from all over the world... creating intricate and beautiful tattoos that are both personal and meaningful.

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A few blocks away from Baltimore Harbor where many a sailor have made port and ships have launched for centuries, I walk into a tan and green-shingled building lined inside and out with tattoo memorabilia. Snarling panthers, rickety ships, pin-up girls: slices of Americana-style ink hang over century-old tattoo guns as their modern successors whizz permanent art into the skin of ready and willing canvases. Plus there's little banter and fun, free of charge.
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