Julio Gomez
18+ Years Experience · Chicago Born & Raised
Eighteen years in, Julio still talks about tattooing the way people talk about a calling. Lettering was the first love, cover-ups became the reputation, portraits are the favourite — and the shop itself is the legacy.
“Good and welcoming energy from Julio, for the first time getting a tattoo in years he was very patient and kept it real with me, would definitely come back.”
— christopher Orellana, Google review
About Julio
Hello! I'm Julio Gomez, a passionate tattoo artist with over 18 years of experience in the industry. Born and raised in Chicago, I've dedicated my career to creating meaningful artwork that transforms lives and builds confidence. My artistic journey began with a deep love for various creative mediums - canvas work with acrylics, wood burning, pencil work, and pen illustrations.
This diverse artistic background has greatly enhanced my tattooing skills and allows me to bring a unique perspective to every piece I create. When I first started tattooing, my passion was rooted in lettering work. Through years of dedicated practice and continuous learning, I gradually transitioned into cover-up work - a specialty that has become incredibly meaningful to me.
Today, portrait tattoos have become my favorite area of expertise, though I remain equally passionate about transformative cover-ups. What truly drives me is witnessing the transformation in my clients. There's nothing quite like seeing someone look in the mirror and light up when they see something beautiful where once was a tattoo they had outgrown or disliked.
These cover-up stories excite me because I know they're going to transform lives and help people feel more confident about themselves. My journey into tattooing began when my daughter was born. I was working various jobs that didn't fulfill me - I simply didn't feel like myself going to work each day. Becoming a father motivated me to pursue something meaningful.
I initially tried mural work, but when that didn't provide financial stability, friends and family encouraged me to learn tattooing, promising they'd be my first clients. Taking their word for it changed my life. I told all my friends and family about my new venture, and sure enough, everyone got tattoos from me. Their referrals helped my business take off quickly.
Eighteen years later, I'm still passionate about this craft and maintain the same hunger and desire to continuously learn and improve. What sets me apart isn't just the quality of my work - it's my commitment to exceptional customer service. I believe in being attentive to every detail that makes someone comfortable in the shop.
Professionalism and maintaining a clean, welcoming environment are paramount because when you walk into my studio, I want you to feel like you're in exactly the right place. I'm always available to answer questions, set up appointments, or provide consultations. While there are multiple ways to reach me, I prefer meeting in person at the shop where we can print designs, take proper measurements, and discuss various pricing options for your specific vision.
I'm eager to meet you, create something amazing together, and hopefully build a lasting friendship through the art we create.
Portfolio
Straight from the shop floor. Tap any piece to see it full size.
Tell us the idea.
We'll do it justice.
Want a piece like this? Tell us the idea and we'll put it in front of Julio.