Tattoo Science: Are Scare Tactics Reshaping The Future Of Tattoos Durb Morrison Episode 286

Are Scare Tactics Reshaping The Future Of Tattoos | Durb Morrison | Episode 286

The tattoo industry is undergoing significant transformation, facing challenges from medical scrutiny to economic shifts. Concerns about health risks and heavy metals in tattoo inks have long plagued the industry, prompting ongoing debates about safety and perception. Despite these challenges, tattoo artists continue to innovate and defend their craft.

The post-pandemic era has brought unique challenges, with the tattoo industry experiencing a surge of interest followed by what some call a "silent recession." Modern tattoo artists are adapting by leveraging social media, participating in conventions, and improving product safety. Their resilience reflects a deep commitment to preserving and evolving the art of tattooing.

This episode was made possible thanks to:

Richmond tattoo and arts logo

The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Festival!

We really want to thank Jesse Smith and everyone at the Richmond Festival. They generously invited us to the show to podcast, hang out, and get some awesome conversations started for the amazing tattoo community we’re all a part of.

We hope that you check out the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Festival next year!

This episode was ALSO brought to you by:

Join the Tattoo Club! Learn More About INSIDE FIRESIDE

Interview by By Jake Meeks —

Writing By Daniel Pushcarich —

Topics: Tattoo Industry Trends, Tattoo Health Safety, Tattoo Pigment Research, Post-Pandemic Tattoo Culture, Tattoo Conventions, Tattoo Artist Innovation, Tattoo Economic Challenges, Tattoo Social Media Marketing, Heavy Metal-Free Tattoo Inks, Tattoo Artist Longevity, Tattoo Community Evolution, Tattoo Art Sustainability, Tattoo Business Adaptation, Tattoo Health Awareness, Professional Tattoo Practices

“With the safety of tattooing and the safety of pigments more than ever now, we're seeing more research into the pigments and aftercare.”

— Durb Morrison

Durb Morrison (@durbmorrison) is a distinguished tattoo industry veteran with over 37 years of experience. As the owner of RedTree Tattoo Gallery in Columbus, Ohio, he has established himself as an internationally recognized tattoo artist known for his neo-traditional style and vibrant color work. Morrison is also the founder of Hell City Tattoo Fest, organizing popular conventions in Columbus and Phoenix, and owns Ohio's largest tattoo studio and supply company, True Tattoo Supply.

Beyond his artistic achievements, Morrison is an innovator in the tattoo industry, inventing True Tubes and True Grips, and contributing to Tattoo Magazine as a writer. He is passionate about supporting fellow artists through his educational seminar "Longevity of the Tattoo Artist," which focuses on teaching preventative health practices to help tattoo artists maintain their physical well-being throughout their careers.

Durb is based in Columbus, OH and owns/tattoos at RedTree Tattoo Gallery.

Please enjoy!

INTERVIEW LINKS, MENTIONS, AND SHOW NOTES BELOW…

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Durb Morrison:

Red Tree Tattoo Gallery | Personal Website | IG | True Tattoo Supply | Tattooer With A Sign

[1320x1080 image of Tattooers work]

SHOW NOTES

[00:00] Intro!!!!
[05:42] Tattooing Under Attack
[07:50] The Evolution of Tattoo Culture and Perspectives
[08:30] The Impact of Economic Changes on Tattooing
[10:00] Health and Safety Improvements in Tattooing
[11:50] The Challenge of Imitation in the Tattoo Industry
[16:12] Innovation and Legacy in Tattoo Conventions
[17:25] The Challenges of Organizing Large Conventions
[19:28] Generational Changes in Tattoo Artists
[23:41] Life Between Ohio and Vegas
[26:21] Team Dynamics and Support
[28:12] The Role of Jiu-Jitsu in Life
[29:50] Future Plans and Collaborations
[31:43] The Importance of Diverse Interests for Artists
[32:32] The Importance of Health in the Tattoo Industry

Tattoo Industry Challenges and Evolution

The tattoo industry is experiencing significant challenges, including growing health concerns and economic fluctuations. Medical narratives have emerged (albeit mostly unsubstantiated) suggesting potential health risks associated with tattoo inks, creating a complex landscape for tattooers and collectors. These discussions have sparked debates about the safety and perception of tattooing in contemporary society.

Resilience and Adaptation in Body Art

Despite economic pressures and regulatory challenges, the tattoo community continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and innovation. Technological advancements have improved pigment safety, with modern products eliminating harmful heavy metals and reducing adverse reactions. Artists have also leveraged social media and events to maintain momentum and foster community dialogue.

Future Outlook and Professional Growth

The tattoo world is undergoing generational shifts, characterized by evolving artistic styles and professional practices. Tattooers are increasingly focusing on holistic well-being, recognizing the importance of diverse interests and maintaining physical health alongside their craft. The industry appears poised to continue its transformation, balancing artistic expression with professional sustainability and health-conscious approaches.

MORE Durb QUOTES FROM THIS INTERVIEW

Tattooing Under Attack

[05:42] “I feel that tattooing is under attack from the medical system somewhat.”

— Durb Morrison

Innovation and Legacy in Tattoo Conventions

[16:12] “At the end of the day, I just want it to resonate that the things I did actually changed the industry somewhat.”

— Durb Morrison

Generational Changes in Tattoo Artists

[19:28] “You'll see a distinctive change in the artists tattooing at the shows around the eight-year mark.”

— Durb Morrison

PEOPLE MENTIONED

This episode was made possible thanks to:

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The Fireside Tattoo Network is home to the Fireside podcast, Fireside Technique video series and our Fireside Weekly blog.

The Fireside Tattoo podcast is hosted by veteran tattooer Jake Meeks, check out our episodes where we discuss, argue and wax philosophical, from tips for all levels of artists to trends in the tattoo world. Many guest artists have sat down for interviews and in-depth conversations and many more are planned…check back often!

Our Fireside Tattoo Overview video series offers informative, short, and detailed videos geared towards helping artists understand the science and nuances of tattoos and make more informed decisions to improve their work. We often take some of our more technical topics from our Fireside podcast and film an in-depth, narrated, time-lapse video showing exactly how Jake or our featured artists handle certain issues.

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Tattoo Science

Our goal as tattooers is to get ink into skin as efficiently as possible while causing the least amount of skin trauma in the process.

By gaining a basic understanding of how ink actually gets into skin, we give ourselves a much better chance for success. The Fireside Tattoo Network has interviewed specialists in tattoo machines, ink, fluid dynamics, and tattoo physics to bring you the most comprehensive tattoo science and physics information available anywhere.

Check out these popular tattoo science and tech articles:

Still interested, want more? You can look at our podcast episodes HERE!