Local tattoo artist inks Akwesasne

Tattoo artist and Rez Ink shop manager Lloyd Pierce started the business to support his family, and survive and gain recognition as a tattoo artist. He has been an artist all his life and started out as a painter whose work can been seen throughout the community. He has been tattooing for 16 years and owned the shop for the past 2 specializing in black and grey tattoo work but can do everything. He runs the shop along with girlfriend and shop manager Sherri Lazore and tattoo apprentice of 2 years John McDonald. Approximately 65 to 70 percent of his clients are Native but people come to the shop from everywhere. Mr. Pierce said that cultural tattoos are the largest style of tattooing that he does at the shop and that because he is Mohawk he can understand the images and draw them correctly. His favorite tattoos are commemorative ones because the clients and their stories are the most memorable.

“They give people a memory to carry with them in that way can make people happy,” said Mr. Pierce.

Mr. Pierce understands the importance of maintaining a clean and sterile shop, and stresses tattoo aftercare for all his clients because he can only guide them while they are at the shop and the rest is up to them once they leave.

“It’s a beautiful thing to see a nice tattoo leave and come back well taken care of and beautiful,” said Mr. Pierce.

“I’d rather come here than go anywhere else to get my tattoos,” said client Sherice who was at the shop with a 4 day old tattoo that was well taken care of and looked great.

The Rez Ink shop is a clean and relaxing environment with a strong sense of family.