Johnny Smith Part 2

What do you think of the state of tattooing now that the internet came into play?
I think people are more educated and know what to look for in a tattoo shop. People that are serious about tattooing have a better idea about what a good tattoo is and how to find a good tattoo artist.

What do you think about all of these reality TV shows?
I think it’s a Catch­22. They bring a lot more attention to the tattoo world for sure. They show a lot more people what tattoos can be but, at the same time they make people kind of ignorant to the fact that tattoos are more difficult than walking in, getting a five minute drawing, and hopping right in the chair.



Did you go down to New Mexico for The Paradise Artist’s Retreat?
I did. It was awesome. It was a lot of painting and a lot of studying but, it was a really good four day trip down there. It was actually in the middle of moving here [Off The Map] It was after three days of driving. I pulled my U­Haul into the artist retreat, stayed there a few days, and then left to drive for three more days up here. It was a big trip.





What do you think is your favorite aspect of the job?
Painting and drawing full time. I never was able to hold down a regular job before so, to be able to do this and to wake up and really enjoy going to work. I’d say that is a pretty good perk about tattooing.

Johnny is currently tattooing at Off The Map Tattoo NW in Grants Pass, Oregon. You can book an appointment with him via www.offthemaptattoo.com. You can also follow Johnny on his instagram account: @JohnnySmithArt

Interview by Ian Winship, if you'd like to check out Part One here!