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In Good Spirits – InkedMag


Whiskey enthusiasts know there’s something ceremonious about a nightly dram; whether it’s an office pour with colleagues to mark the end of a long workday, or a solo nightcap to unwind. It has been a romanticized ritual in American culture since the spirit was first distilled on U.S. soil in the late 18th century, carried through prohibition, and given a renaissance in modern times thanks to pop culture.

For those seeking alternative potent potables, there is a growing market of premium aged spirits that offers an equally refined tipple with extraordinary tasting notes. There’s añejo tequila that may evade even the savviest whiskey drinker in a blind tasting. For distinctly different alternatives, rum produced using the solera method or barrel-aged gin are undeniable standouts. Highlighted below is a selection of masterful bottles leading the premium aged spirits category.

Barr Hill’s Tom Cat Gin

With its robust Tom Cat Gin, Vermont-based distillery Caledonia Spirits challenges the perceived practice of reserving gin exclusively for dry martinis or gin and tonics. Tom Cat is distilled with juniper and then finished with local raw honey before spending six to nine months in new American oak barrels. The final product is one with warm wooden aromas that carry a suggestion of slight oak through to the palate, with wildflower botanicals imparted from the honey, and a touch of sweetness — a spirit deserving of sipping neat. barrhill.com

Ron Zacapa XO

The solera aging technique systematically blends younger wines stored in the upper tier of casks with mature wines from the lower casks. The technique is most recognized in sherry and port production, but Ron Zacapa made a splash by using it to craft its complex rums in Guatemala.

Zacapa XO is a unique blend crafted exclusively from hand-selected reserve rums between 10 and 25 years old. To add further complexity, the blend is aged in a series of barrels that previously stored American whiskey, sherry, and Pedro Ximénez wines before the liquid is finished in French oak casks that once aged cognac. Aromas include toasted oak and caramel with marzipan; a palate of dark cherry, dates, and clove; and a light mango, raspberry, and ginger finish. zacaparum.com

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Clase Azul Mexico Tequila Añejo

Clase Azul Mexico may be most recognized by its cobalt decanter housing its Tequila Reposado. Still, as the tequila craftspeople added to the celebrated collection over the years, Clase Azul’s full-body Tequila Añejo has emerged as a favorite among serious imbibers. The tequila spends more than two years in American whiskey casks for flavor development and emerges with tasting notes of orange marmalade, nutmeg, toasted oak, and clove. The mouthfeel is silky and sips sublimely, whether neat or on the rocks. claseazul.com

BHAKTA Armagnac

After entering the luxury rye whiskey category with WhistlePig Whiskey, founder Raj Peter Bhakta set his sights on vintage spirits, Armagnac among them. BHAKTA’s Armagnac portfolio spans the decades; the 50-year-old limited edition blended barrel series includes a distillate from 1868 and single vintages spanning 1946 to 2003.  For immediate consumption or gifting to a special someone, the younger vintages have more approachable prices. The oldest single vintages come with a hefty price tag, but also the most nuanced and mature flavors, which beckon for cellaring until a future special occasion. bhaktaspirits.com

Rémy Martin XO Cognac

As the signature expression from Rémy Martin’s cellar master, this XO Cognac Fine Champagne is a classic for a reason. Crafted from Petit and Grande Champagne grapes in the designated origin of Cognac, the extra-old, mahogany-hued liquid exemplifies the premier standard of what fine cognac should be: pure and smooth with a full-body that offers a full progression on the palate. Flavors evolve from fruity plum and candied orange with spices and hazelnut, and a finish of roasted cocoa and honeyed gingerbread. remymartin.com

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Celebrating the Allure and Empowerment of Tattooed Females


By Nicole Stover (@litlifecole)

Tattoos have become more than just ink on the skin — they evolved into a powerful means of self-expression, captivating attention, and inspiring awe. Once considered taboo, female tattoos have experienced a remarkable shift in societal perception. Previously regarded as rebellious and unruly, ink on women evolved into a celebrated symbol of strength, beauty, and individuality.

We’re moving past outdated stereotypes and toward celebrating these inked individuals, challenging the norm. They proudly display their body art, breaking free from traditional beauty standards and reclaiming their bodies as canvases of expression.

Bailey Sarian (@baileysarian) has emerged as a powerhouse of positive influence for women, inspiring them to live life on their own terms. Sarian skillfully combines her passion for true crime stories, makeup artistry, and history through enthralling podcasts such as “Murder, Mystery & Makeup” and “Dark History.”

In a recent interview, Sarian shared how tattoos contribute to her overall sense of identity: “I love my tattoos. I love body art. I feel gorgeous. I feel beautiful and like a piece of art myself. It’s a part of me.”

Sarian’s latest campaign with Melt Cosmetics’ Fatally Yours further showcased her ability to break barriers in the beauty industry, proving it is possible to thrive by embracing one’s unique passions while challenging society’s expectations along the way.

“Every tattoo artist is an artist, and I like to collect their work from all over,” Sarian said. “Most collectors put it on their walls; I put it on my body.”

Tattooed women challenge traditional ideas of femininity, defying expectations imposed on women’s bodies and their roles in communities. Tattoos empower these women to assert control over their physical selves and unabashedly express their distinct identities without apology.

MiMi Fulton (@mimi.fulton), a globally recognized model from Philadelphia, shared her perspective on challenging conventional standards: “People see the beauty of what I’ve collected in these wonderful photos that would not have the same powerful message had I no tattoos at all.”

As our cultural attitudes evolve, so does our understanding of what it means to be adorned with ink. Molly Hammons (@mollyyyhammons), a personal trainer and influencer in Los Angeles, is one of many women working toward changing the stigma surrounding tattooed females. As owner of streetwear clothing brand Intensions, Hammons defies society’s negative outlook on strong, inked women in the workforce.

“What people choose to do with their bodies does not correlate with their work ethic,” she said. “I love that I can be a part of the change and show other women that we can work corporate jobs, model, and so much more while being tattooed.”

The rise in visibility through social media platforms has played a crucial role in shattering cliches and paving the way for acceptance and inclusivity. Denver-based artist and painter Hailey Crossley (@hailstormtattoos) shared her thoughts on how media has played a role in the shifting popularity: “I think seeing more tattooed women in the media contributed to the rise in popularity of female tattoos. We can thank Kat Von D and tattoo TV shows for bringing tattoos into the mainstream media. Also, with social media, we have proof of females owning their truth and getting tattooed all over the world.”

Beyond personal significance lies an appreciation for the artistry behind each tattoo. Tattoo artists skillfully and creatively bring these designs to life, turning human skin into living compositions. The intricate details, vibrant colors, and expert craftsmanship make each tattoo unique.

Anna Chernova (@horror_tattoo), a 29-year-old studio owner based in San Francisco, explained her approach to designing tattoos for each of her clients. “I always approach each client’s idea individually; this inspires me very much,” she said, explaining, “First, I listen to each woman’s story, her idea, and what it means to her to create a masterpiece that we both like and so that no one else has such a tattoo.”

Undeniably, behind every tattoo lies a story waiting to be told — a narrative that speaks volumes about personal experiences, beliefs, or aspirations. From breast cancer survivors adorning mastectomy scars to individuals using tattoos as a form of activism or self-acceptance, these stories showcase the profound impact that tattoos can have on one’s sense of self.

At the center is tattoo artist and single mother of two, Rachel WS (@rachlws), who dedicated herself to transforming painful memories into beautiful works of art for her female clients. At her Rhode Island-based studio, Rachel WS Fine Arts, she empowers her clients to reclaim their bodies despite their overwhelming challenges. With compassion and impeccable skill bleeding through each stroke of her tattoo machine, she brings healing and beauty to those seeking solace in the transformative power of art.

One client, 30-year-old lab technician Kate Godfrey, revealed, “I’ve had visible self-harm scars on my arms for my whole adult life, and it’s always been an insecurity. Covering up the scars with art has been insane for my self-confidence.”

Similarly, preschool and dance teacher Meag Foy-Anderson emoted passionately about Rachel’s life-changing artwork. “Rachel WS understood the deep connection of trauma to scars and how much of an impact can be made by taking away that visual reminder of an ugly time in your life and replacing it with a thing of beauty and inspiration. I am ever grateful for her.”

As society increasingly embraces the allure and significance of tattooed artwork on women’s bodies, we wholeheartedly applaud their courageous defiance of conventions and the embrace of their authentic selves. Moreover, we pay tribute to their personal stories and commend the extraordinary artists who skillfully bring these narratives to life.

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Ángel Manuel Soto – InkedMag


Ángel Manuel Soto is a cinematographic rebel with a cause–a visionary who sees many similarities amidst his background, before the fame, and the protagonists that he has brought to life on the big screen with films such as Blue Beetle (2023). The success story behind this story-teller has been shaped by a litany of risky decisions during his upbringing as a poverty-stricken teen on the streets of San Juan, Puerto Rico. Instances like trespassing onto reggaeton music video sets for a BTS look at professional film production and shoplifting a novel written by Robert Rodriguez called Rebel without a Crew from Borders bookstore (Soto and Rodriguez would go on to share a laugh about this incident years later upon an introduction) are standout moments from his ascension over the years. But perhaps the most career-defining gamble he has made thus far was when he chose to permanently alter the pigment particles on both of his hands with microscopic drops of ink. Soto procured a tattoo on his right hand from an artist named Juanky (Employed at Senzala Tattoo & Body Piercing) back in 2010. Three years later, he enlisted the services of  Juan Salgado (Owner of Color Conspiracy Tattoo Gallery) to complete a tattoo design on his left hand.

“I got my hands tattooed as a guarantee to myself thinking, ‘Now you have to make it work because nobody’s going to hire you now,’” Soto recalled. “’Nine to five jobs in an office? You’re not going to get that because you have tattoos that are visual.’ It was a motivation to keep me from conforming [because filmmaking] is all I wanted to do.”

Eventually, Soto’s riskiness paid off. Subsequently, nearly a decade and a half of hustling as a freelance director in the Caribbean and stateside resulted in his independent film La Granja (2015) landing on the radar of Tim League (founder of the Fantastic Fest), who then offered him a premiere at his annual film festival in Austin, Texas. The critically acclaimed sports drama garnered attention from Javier Alvarado, an agent with CAA who went on to become his manager.

Years after relocating to Los Angeles, the Puerto Rican native returned to his home island in May of 2022 to make his breakthrough film, Blue Beetle. The full-circle moment added $20 million to Puerto Rico’s economy while also manufacturing nearly $76 million worth of jobs, some of whom included friends and crew members from his arthouse film La Carta (2010). Now, the same hands that used to slap basslines for the ska-punk band known as Los Chéveres in the late 1990s are writing scripts, roll cameras, and closing clapperboards for a wide variety of Hollywood’s biggest motion pictures.  You cannot depict Soto’s timeline as an aficionado in moviemaking without conveying his passion for tattoos because they go hand in hand.

At first glance, Soto looks like more of a rock star than a filmmaker who spends much of his time out of the limelight. His long hair and black fingernail polish are supplanted only by the tattoos that cover nearly half of his upper body. Soto’s introduction to tattoo needles and round shaders occurred during the year 2000, when FIBZ, an artist from Wizz Tattoo, inked a Dave Quiggle-styled crucifix on his right forearm. Nearly twenty-five years later, the 41-year-old from the Santurce neighborhood of San Juan frequents a pair of his countrymen named  Javier “Che” Rivera (Owner of Tattoos by Che) and Juan Salgado (Owner of Color Conspiracy Tattoo Gallery) to conduct the long tattoo sessions that he compares to therapy. The theme on his body carries a traditional Caribbean undertone with engravings, Catholic Nautical sensibilities, and random patches throughout his arms and upper torso. Soto and his wife also frequent Sashatattooing Gallery Co-Owner and Artist Nora Lyashko when he is stationed in L.A. for filming.

 

Blue Beetle

“I think I’ve done all of [my tattoos] around the island,” Soto said. “The biggest ones have been with Che and Juan Salgado, who has already called dibs on my back (laughs). I don’t have anything there yet. I’m trying to do something with that Juan Salgado style, but I want to do it with black and grey…My left arm is all patched with an engraved aesthetic…the theme is mostly about letting go of things that keep you from growing while moving onward with what gives you strength. And my neck tattoo is from Nora. My wife has a sleeve from her.”

Nora tattooed a peony flower on Soto’s neck shortly after Charm City Kings (2020), starring Meek Mill and Jahi Di’Allo Winston, wrapped filming during 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. Additionally, Soto, his Director of Photography Katelin Arizmendi, and the camera operator Stewart Cantrell all inked themselves with friendship tattoos, inspired by the 12 O’Clock Boys, the dirt bike riders from their movie, during the production phase. Soto’s tattoo is a Molotov cocktail that says, “12XII.” Around that time, he also procured an inner lip tattoo of the word “help.” In a recent interview with Inked Magazine, Soto revealed that it was a light-hearted response to his wife, whom he says is already starting to outnumber him in tattoos, for playfully encouraging the concept after he floated the idea.

Soto’s most elaborate tattoo is a chest was completed by an artist named Omar Velazquez in 2013. It includes a script that reads, “Honor, Lealtad, Respeto.” Like many ink enthusiasts, he’s also the owner of a “drunk tattoo.” The whimsical memento was completed by José Guerra at the Harisumi Tattoo Studio in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Guerra inked the word “true” just above the fingers on Soto’s right hand. It may take a while for his filmography to surpass his growing tattoo collection. However, Soto has indicated that he would like to add anime, romantic comedies, Western movies, and horror movies to his repertoire someday.

 

Soto is currently in Los Angeles, preparing for Wrecking Crew, a buddy-comedy starring Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista. Although pre-production has kept him busy, he is already thinking of his next tattoo.

 “The next one is a face tattoo, but my wife is like, ‘no’ (laughs); I’ve always wanted something little [on my face], like the 787 area code of Puerto Rico next to my eyebrow,” Soto said. “Or my mom and father’s initials.”

He added, “There are a couple of things that are very iconographical from our Puerto Rican revolutionary legacy. But what I like the most is a native name for Puerto Rico besides ‘Borinquen,’ and it’s ‘Oubao Moin.’ That means ‘Island of Blood.’ It was a name that the Taínos (the indigenous people of the island) called it. I’ve always liked that way of honoring our ancestors.”



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Singing for the Misfits – InkedMag


We’re all looking for somewhere to belong. It’s human nature: we need connection, community, and belonging to maintain our well-being. In a world where authenticity can sometimes feel elusive, Ashley McBryde is the lighthouse we’re all searching for. Through her vocals, raw storytelling, and direct actions, she champions the importance of belonging and community, fostering connections that transcend beyond the music industry.

McBryde is one of the most acclaimed country artists to emerge within the past few years. She received six Grammy Awards nominations with one win, one Country Music Awards (CMA) trophy, three Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards, and one nomination for a Daytime Emmy. With success like that, it’s easy to enter a self-obsessed bubble. But McBryde is still badass and a true girl’s girl. She sets the record straight: “I know it can seem like women in country music are catty. We are not. We want you here. We party together. Come on over.”

Growing up as the youngest of six kids, music was always part of McBryde’s life. “I’ve been singing since I was old enough to know that they were throwing shoes at me trying to get me to shut up,” she jokes. With influences like Dolly Parton, Patty Loveless, and Trisha Yearwood, McBryde was surrounded by powerhouse female artists who shaped her musical journey.

McBryde found belonging in music, in storytelling, and with audiences. “I remember when I was little, I was really shy and I didn’t want to talk to people, but I could sing to them,” she reflects. Music has served as a gateway to human connection for McBryde. Before embarking on her world tour, McBryde spent some of 2023 touring with Jelly Roll, CMA’s New Artist of the Year. “When we got on tour, he said to me, ‘You’ll never feel more at home anywhere than you will on my tour.’ This rang true for his audience, especially being someone who’s covered in tattoos in country music, where being tall and blond and pristine is standard. And I’m short and brunette and covered in tattoos.”

McBryde wants to return that sense of belonging to her audience — to every person. “I want people in active addiction in my crowd. I want people in recovery in my crowd. These are the people that will stick to the devil they know. These are the guys and girls going nowhere. They’ve been told this. They’ve been told they’re pieces of shit by their teachers, their coworkers, their spouses in some cases, and their parents. That’s who I want to sing to.”

When talking about performing her song “6th of October,” McBryde says, “When we sing, ‘Reckless hearts, the tattered and bruised ones, the slightly confused ones, the ones holding stools down in bars, will show up and find us and gently remind us to not be afraid of our scars and who we are.’ That is my favorite thing to watch. When the audience closes their eyes and turn their head to the side and sing ‘slightly confused ones,’ they are in that moment admitting that’s them or recognizing that’s somebody close to them. And that’s a gift that we can’t just give on our own. That’s only through the power of song and live performance that we can offer them just a couple milliseconds of peace.”

McBryde doesn’t just sing to her audience — she commits to deeply connecting with them, even if they cannot hear her voice. She recently began signing lyrics and phrases on stage. After surgery on her vocal cords, she couldn’t speak for weeks, so McBryde learned enough American Sign Language for necessities, like water and food. “I’m still learning, and sometimes slowly,” she says. “But it just became more and more apparent to me that one: I needed to learn more. And then I remembered we’ve got interpreters. And I thought it would be even cooler if I could thank the interpreters myself. And even better, can I thank my non-hearing and hard-of-hearing crowd? Because they’re there, or there wouldn’t be an interpreter. I want to thank them myself and say things like, ‘We see you, we’re happy you’re here, it’s nice to meet you, welcome to my show.’”

She was right — they were there. “The first reaction that really moved me was a lady at a show who said, ‘My sister is 62 years old and has been deaf her entire life and has been invisible her entire life. And you make me feel like she can be seen right now.’” It’s clear McBryde is committed to creating a community of inclusivity and belonging, and this is just one example.

On the inside of her left elbow is a tattoo of a devil staring into a rearview mirror, inspired by her latest album “The Devil I Know.” The album is filled with tender emotions, tough revelations, and the message of staying true to yourself, even when it’s not so pretty. “That’s the devil I know for sure,” she says. “And this really reminds me of my song ‘Blackout Betty,’ and one of the lines that is ‘I’m a real piece of shit sometimes.’ That’s not necessarily gorgeous, but it is true. And it doesn’t have to be pretty to be true. So, I know that bitch is still in the back seat, and she is ready to take over at any time.”

That fiendish passenger may still be in the back seat, but McBryde wouldn’t change a thing. “If I could go back and make it easier on younger me, her skin wouldn’t be as thick, and she wouldn’t be as strong as I get to be now.” It’s that mix of tough exterior, authenticity, and deep connection with audiences that keeps fans returning to the main stage.

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Storytelling Through Tattoos – InkedMag


 

The 2023 Inked OG – Geoff Ratzlaff

Geoff Ratzlaff, a devoted architectural technologist at Aritzia, relocated with his wife, Adriana, and son, Leo, from Vancouver, B.C., to Golden, a serene town in the Rockies. Drawn by both family proximity and a longing for mountainous landscapes and a disconnect from the noise, he is now surrounded by nature finding constant inspiration for his architectural endeavors. This creative spirit extends beyond blueprints, delving into the world of tattoo art. We take a deep dive into the stories behind the captivating tattoos that serve as both an homage to his roots and a reflection of his personal journey.

“Influenced by my three older brothers, whom I’ve always admired, I developed a fascination for tattoos at a young age. Witnessing their tattoos, I was captivated by the striking coolness and personal interests etched within each design, sparking my own exploration into body art,” he said. Drawn to dark realism designs that skillfully evoke raw emotions, Ratzlaff appreciates the intricate portrayal of shadows and depth within this style. For him, dark realism becomes a powerful medium to express the complexities of human experience.

At 15, Ratzlaff got a Celtic tribal on his upper back shoulder blade. It wasn’t until 2018, after two decades of contemplation, that he decided to embark on a more profound tattoo project. “My favorite aspect of my tattoo is the tale it narrates, spanning the pilgrimage of my family from the hardships of the Russian Revolution to the present day. Each inked detail encapsulates our evolving legacy, commemorating the trials, triumphs, and enduring spirit that have shaped our collective history over the decades.”

The Four Horsemen

The centerpiece of Ratzlaff’s back piece is an epic story capturing the trials faced by his grandparents as they sought to escape the tumultuous era. The Four Horsemen — death, war, pestilence, and famine — are intricately etched onto his back, symbolizing the obstacles endured by his family. The hauntingly beautiful portrayal of these horsemen encapsulates the challenges they faced during their escape. “They were a part of a big farming colony. And when the revolution happened in Russia, the government basically said everything is the government’s now. So, everything was taken from them, including their farm. They had to get out of there. So, what my tattoo represents are all the things they had to go through before escaping Russia, so they might actually have been the four horsemen — which are, basically, the main things they had to go through to get out of the country.”

The Train through the Red Gate

Continuing the saga, Ratzlaff’s back features a tattoo of a train crossing the Red Gate. This marks the point of freedom, the threshold between oppression and escape. The Red Gate, situated on the Russian/Latvian border, became a symbolic gateway to liberation. The train on Ratzlaff’s leg represents his grandparents’ migration towards freedom, an odyssey that ultimately brought them to Canada.

The Spasskaya Tower at the Kremlin

Adding further historical context, Ratzlaff’s continuous tattoo includes a striking image of the Spasskaya clock tower at the Kremlin. The tower clock is frozen at 5 o’clock, representing the time his grandparents would rise to farm in Russia. This meticulous attention to detail showcases the dedication to capturing every nuance of their journey, emphasizing the sacrifices made during a pivotal chapter in history.

A family united

The culmination of Ratzlaff’s tattoo narrative is a heartwarming image that bridges generations. A picture of his son, Leo, symbolizes the continuation of the family legacy. Leo welcomes his ancestors to freedom and Canada, creating a poignant link between past and present. This blend of historical symbolism and personal connection makes Ratzlaff’s tattoo collection a truly unique and emotionally charged visual chronicle.

A Coat of Arms

His newest addition, which he will continue in an upcoming session, honors his recently departed grandfather, John Ratzlaff, with a coat of arms tattoo on his right arm, paying homage to his patriarchal legacy, incorporating symbols that hold deep significance for the entire family.

Ratzlaff credits his tattoo artist, Mark Roy, with making the meaningful stories come to life. Roy’s expertise in dark realism perfectly complements Ratzlaff’s vision. He’d also like to thank his family and friends for their support during the Inked Originals competition, and he has some advice for tattoo artists and enthusiasts: “Keep posting all your stuff. It’s inspiring to see everybody’s work. I follow a lot of tattooers on Instagram, and so every time you create or get a cool tattoo and post it, it’s inspiring and very much appreciated.”

Mroytattooart.com | @mroytattooart

Micki Rayne

A free-spirited goddess on the rise, Micki Rayne reveals her life story through etchings of astrological truths, animalistic evolutions, and ancestral tributes. Though mostly grounded, living in the ‘here and now,’ Rayne’s mind is often in the depths of the constellations, viewing life through a kaleidoscope lens, her world swirling in a colorful duality of light and dark. Rayne started getting tattoos in 2013, counting each one as an individual. But with the help of her beloved tattoo artist, Lindsey Pergentile, at An Tattoo Inc. in Calgary, Alberta, she has moved into a state of flow—where each new piece works in unison with the others, creating one beautiful masterpiece. Each image symbolizes resilience and transformation from the first horse on her upper arm to multiple scorpions, a rose, monkey, wolf, fox, doe, mouse, rabbit, flowers, lion, eagle, rooster, poetry, mantras, and a self-portrait. As she prepares for her next tattoo, the world awaits this Scorpio’s next chapter. @micki.013

Insta: @micki.013

Alec Lerman

Skynard would be a huge fan of Alec Lerman. He’s a ‘simple kind of man’ — authentic, easy to be around, and content with life. Lerman, a 29-year-old Neptune, NJ, resident, is a loyal client of @zackbrysontattoo. His first tattoo was a tribute to his late grandfather, a staple of his family. Since then, Lerman’s collection has grown to include a variety of designs, from family tributes to images of animals, mandalas, portraits, roses, and skulls. Lerman resonates with the simplicity of American traditional tattoos and admires the tebori style. Recently, his focus has shifted towards home life, cherishing moments with his mother, father, daughter, and dogs. He is a huge NY Giants fan and appreciates good food. Lerman offers a refreshing perspective, asserting that not every tattoo needs profound meaning. “You can get pieces just because you think they look cool.” His advice to fellow ink enthusiasts is to invest in quality work, emphasizing that good tattoos aren’t cheap.

X: @_aleclerman | Insta: @aleclerman

Torry Tucker

Torry Tucker, a 29-year-old Brazilian Jiujitsu coach at Tupelo Jiujitsu Academy in Tupelo, MS, is a fantasy devotee with some sweet mystical ink. He began his tattoo journey with a piece representing the obstacles of life with epilepsy. Tucker then turned to the cosmos, with art displaying the Milky Way in the form of a penguin. His favorite is a colossal sleeve that’s a fantasy lover’s dream. “It starts as the scene from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone where the kids first see Hogwarts as they cross over the Black Lake. As the elevation rises up my arm, it transitions into a Star Wars battle for the fate of the galaxy,” he said. “When I first pitched the idea, I thought it would be asking for way too much but I had a vision, and Jacob Jones at Aim High Tattoos took that vision and turned it into some beautiful art.”

@torrytucker.bjj | @jacobjonestattoos



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Storytelling Through Tattoos – InkedMag


 

The 2023 Inked OG – Geoff Ratzlaff

Geoff Ratzlaff, a devoted architectural technologist at Aritzia, relocated with his wife, Adriana, and son, Leo, from Vancouver, B.C., to Golden, a serene town in the Rockies. Drawn by both family proximity and a longing for mountainous landscapes and a disconnect from the noise, he is now surrounded by nature finding constant inspiration for his architectural endeavors. This creative spirit extends beyond blueprints, delving into the world of tattoo art. We take a deep dive into the stories behind the captivating tattoos that serve as both an homage to his roots and a reflection of his personal journey.

“Influenced by my three older brothers, whom I’ve always admired, I developed a fascination for tattoos at a young age. Witnessing their tattoos, I was captivated by the striking coolness and personal interests etched within each design, sparking my own exploration into body art,” he said. Drawn to dark realism designs that skillfully evoke raw emotions, Ratzlaff appreciates the intricate portrayal of shadows and depth within this style. For him, dark realism becomes a powerful medium to express the complexities of human experience.

At 15, Ratzlaff got a Celtic tribal on his upper back shoulder blade. It wasn’t until 2018, after two decades of contemplation, that he decided to embark on a more profound tattoo project. “My favorite aspect of my tattoo is the tale it narrates, spanning the pilgrimage of my family from the hardships of the Russian Revolution to the present day. Each inked detail encapsulates our evolving legacy, commemorating the trials, triumphs, and enduring spirit that have shaped our collective history over the decades.”

The Four Horsemen

The centerpiece of Ratzlaff’s back piece is an epic story capturing the trials faced by his grandparents as they sought to escape the tumultuous era. The Four Horsemen — death, war, pestilence, and famine — are intricately etched onto his back, symbolizing the obstacles endured by his family. The hauntingly beautiful portrayal of these horsemen encapsulates the challenges they faced during their escape. “They were a part of a big farming colony. And when the revolution happened in Russia, the government basically said everything is the government’s now. So, everything was taken from them, including their farm. They had to get out of there. So, what my tattoo represents are all the things they had to go through before escaping Russia, so they might actually have been the four horsemen — which are, basically, the main things they had to go through to get out of the country.”

The Train through the Red Gate

Continuing the saga, Ratzlaff’s back features a tattoo of a train crossing the Red Gate. This marks the point of freedom, the threshold between oppression and escape. The Red Gate, situated on the Russian/Latvian border, became a symbolic gateway to liberation. The train on Ratzlaff’s leg represents his grandparents’ migration towards freedom, an odyssey that ultimately brought them to Canada.

The Spasskaya Tower at the Kremlin

Adding further historical context, Ratzlaff’s continuous tattoo includes a striking image of the Spasskaya clock tower at the Kremlin. The tower clock is frozen at 5 o’clock, representing the time his grandparents would rise to farm in Russia. This meticulous attention to detail showcases the dedication to capturing every nuance of their journey, emphasizing the sacrifices made during a pivotal chapter in history.

A family united

The culmination of Ratzlaff’s tattoo narrative is a heartwarming image that bridges generations. A picture of his son, Leo, symbolizes the continuation of the family legacy. Leo welcomes his ancestors to freedom and Canada, creating a poignant link between past and present. This blend of historical symbolism and personal connection makes Ratzlaff’s tattoo collection a truly unique and emotionally charged visual chronicle.

A Coat of Arms

His newest addition, which he will continue in an upcoming session, honors his recently departed grandfather, John Ratzlaff, with a coat of arms tattoo on his right arm, paying homage to his patriarchal legacy, incorporating symbols that hold deep significance for the entire family.

Ratzlaff credits his tattoo artist, Mark Roy, with making the meaningful stories come to life. Roy’s expertise in dark realism perfectly complements Ratzlaff’s vision. He’d also like to thank his family and friends for their support during the Inked Originals competition, and he has some advice for tattoo artists and enthusiasts: “Keep posting all your stuff. It’s inspiring to see everybody’s work. I follow a lot of tattooers on Instagram, and so every time you create or get a cool tattoo and post it, it’s inspiring and very much appreciated.”

Mroytattooart.com | @mroytattooart

Micki Rayne

A free-spirited goddess on the rise, Micki Rayne reveals her life story through etchings of astrological truths, animalistic evolutions, and ancestral tributes. Though mostly grounded, living in the ‘here and now,’ Rayne’s mind is often in the depths of the constellations, viewing life through a kaleidoscope lens, her world swirling in a colorful duality of light and dark. Rayne started getting tattoos in 2013, counting each one as an individual. But with the help of her beloved tattoo artist, Lindsey Pergentile, at An Tattoo Inc. in Calgary, Alberta, she has moved into a state of flow—where each new piece works in unison with the others, creating one beautiful masterpiece. Each image symbolizes resilience and transformation from the first horse on her upper arm to multiple scorpions, a rose, monkey, wolf, fox, doe, mouse, rabbit, flowers, lion, eagle, rooster, poetry, mantras, and a self-portrait. As she prepares for her next tattoo, the world awaits this Scorpio’s next chapter. @micki.013

Insta: @micki.013

Alec Lerman

Skynard would be a huge fan of Alec Lerman. He’s a ‘simple kind of man’ — authentic, easy to be around, and content with life. Lerman, a 29-year-old Neptune, NJ, resident, is a loyal client of @zackbrysontattoo. His first tattoo was a tribute to his late grandfather, a staple of his family. Since then, Lerman’s collection has grown to include a variety of designs, from family tributes to images of animals, mandalas, portraits, roses, and skulls. Lerman resonates with the simplicity of American traditional tattoos and admires the tebori style. Recently, his focus has shifted towards home life, cherishing moments with his mother, father, daughter, and dogs. He is a huge NY Giants fan and appreciates good food. Lerman offers a refreshing perspective, asserting that not every tattoo needs profound meaning. “You can get pieces just because you think they look cool.” His advice to fellow ink enthusiasts is to invest in quality work, emphasizing that good tattoos aren’t cheap.

X: @_aleclerman | Insta: @aleclerman

Torry Tucker

Torry Tucker, a 29-year-old Brazilian Jiujitsu coach at Tupelo Jiujitsu Academy in Tupelo, MS, is a fantasy devotee with some sweet mystical ink. He began his tattoo journey with a piece representing the obstacles of life with epilepsy. Tucker then turned to the cosmos, with art displaying the Milky Way in the form of a penguin. His favorite is a colossal sleeve that’s a fantasy lover’s dream. “It starts as the scene from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone where the kids first see Hogwarts as they cross over the Black Lake. As the elevation rises up my arm, it transitions into a Star Wars battle for the fate of the galaxy,” he said. “When I first pitched the idea, I thought it would be asking for way too much but I had a vision, and Jacob Jones at Aim High Tattoos took that vision and turned it into some beautiful art.”

@torrytucker.bjj | @jacobjonestattoos



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Digital Age Dynamo – InkedMag


In the ever-evolving music industry universe, there are those rare talents that completely transcend boundaries. These days, artists who can utterly captivate audiences with their raw talent, creativity, and unapologetic individuality are few and far between. Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, is a shining example of such a rare character.

Breaking through the surface of the music industry, a product ushered in purely by the digital age, the Grammy Award-winning superstar planted her roots firmly in the SoundCloud scene before headlining an international arena tour. The tattoo-clad icon’s rise to global stardom is nothing short of extraordinary, indicative of her pure and unflinching star power.

Born and raised in the vibrant cultural hub of Los Angeles, Doja Cat’s upbringing was steeped in a rich pool of musical influences. With a childhood that found the star lost in the eclectic sounds of artists like Busta Rhymes, Erykah Badu, and Nicki Minaj, coupled with an enthralling passion for piano, Doja’s love of music and innate talent ignited a spark that would set the world on fire. These early influences laid the groundwork for pop-focused rap which the star finds herself consistently breaking records in today.

At 16 years old, Doja Cat made her mark on the music scene in 2013 with her first upload to SoundCloud, a platform that served as the launching pad for her historic rise to fame. From there, it wasn’t long before the star’s undeniable talent caught the attention of industry insiders, leading to a pivotal moment in 2014 when she officially signed with Kemosabe/RCA Records, setting the stage for her rapid ascent to stardom.

The release of her EP “Purrr!” and debut album “Amala” paved the way for Doja Cat’s burgeoning career, but it was her August 2018 single “MOOO!” that catapulted her into the mainstream consciousness. With its infectious beat and irreverent charm, “MOOO!” captured the attention of fans worldwide, earning critical acclaim and labeling Doja Cat as a rising star to watch.

Her sophomore album, “Hot Pink,” released in November 2019, further solidified her position as a musical powerhouse. Boasting more than 6 billion streams worldwide, the album showcased Doja Cat’s versatility as an artist, with hits like “Streets,” the soundtrack behind the viral Tik Tok Silhouette Challenge that blew up on everyone’s FYP during the COVID lockdown, and the Grammy-nominated “Say So” drawing in audiences and critics alike in record-breaking numbers.

In June 2021, Doja Cat released her Grammy Award-winning album “Planet Her,” a tour de force of creativity and innovation. Dominating the charts and generating a historic number of streams on Spotify, “Planet Her” is what solidified Doja Cat as a global superstar. Collaborations with fellow artists like SZA on the multi-platinum hit “Kiss Me More” further elevated her continuous influence and widespread appeal.

The release of her fourth and most recent studio album, “Scarlet,” in September 2023 marked yet another milestone in Doja Cat’s illustrious career. Featuring the smash hit single “Paint the Town Red,” which made history by becoming the first rap song to top the Billboard 200 chart since August 2022.

“Scarlet” showcased Doja Cat’s evolution as an artist and solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. A complete shift from her previous public persona, “Scarlet” is a horror-infused era for Doja. Shifting away from the divine femininity that simply oozes from “Planet Her,” “Scarlet” showcases the scarier side of the star. Once again, captivating the masses and maintaining a steady hold over pop culture and the A-list music industry she’s had for the better part of a decade.

Doja’s impact extends beyond music, as the pop culture icon recently brought tattoos to the forefront of the fashion and beauty industry during the 2024 Grammy Awards. Styled by Turkish-British designer, Dilara Findikoglu, the singer found herself gloriously drenched from head to toe in faux tattoos that peeked out beneath a sheer floor-length gown. This iconic look became arguably the most discussed appearance of the night, with Doja Cat garnering immediate praise for her boldness and individuality, further highlighting her fearless approach to self-expression. The highly decorated star continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, on and off the runway.

In 2024, Doja Cat shows no signs of slowing down. Recently treating fans to two electrifying singles: “n.h.i.e.” with British rapper 21 Savage and a feature on “Jeezu” with the multi-faceted artist Jeymes “The Bullitts” Samuel. Lending her production capabilities to the latter, “Jeezu” was featured in Samuel’s most recent cinematic foray, “The Book of Clarence” released in January 2024. These collaborations underscore her versatility as an artist and her unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of her craft.

Perhaps the most exciting news is the recent announcement of the U.K. and European dates for the Scarlet Tour 2024. Kicking off in June, Doja will grace the stages of iconic venues in cities such as London, Paris, and Amsterdam. And before embarking on her European adventure, she’ll captivate audiences at Coachella in April, solidifying her standing as one of the most sought-after performers in the world.

As Doja Cat prepares for this new chapter of her journey, her dedication to her craft and her fearless approach to self-expression continue to inspire fans and fellow artists alike. With each step, she reaffirms her status as a true visionary in the world of music, leaving a scarlet mark on the hearts and minds of all who have the pleasure of experiencing her artistry firsthand.

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Singing for the Misfits – InkedMag


We’re all looking for somewhere to belong. It’s human nature: we need connection, community, and belonging to maintain our well-being. In a world where authenticity can sometimes feel elusive, Ashley McBryde is the lighthouse we’re all searching for. Through her vocals, raw storytelling, and direct actions, she champions the importance of belonging and community, fostering connections that transcend beyond the music industry.

McBryde is one of the most acclaimed country artists to emerge within the past few years. She received six Grammy Awards nominations with one win, one Country Music Awards (CMA) trophy, three Academy of Country Music (ACM) awards, and one nomination for a Daytime Emmy. With success like that, it’s easy to enter a self-obsessed bubble. But McBryde is still badass and a true girl’s girl. She sets the record straight: “I know it can seem like women in country music are catty. We are not. We want you here. We party together. Come on over.”

Growing up as the youngest of six kids, music was always part of McBryde’s life. “I’ve been singing since I was old enough to know that they were throwing shoes at me trying to get me to shut up,” she jokes. With influences like Dolly Parton, Patty Loveless, and Trisha Yearwood, McBryde was surrounded by powerhouse female artists who shaped her musical journey.

McBryde found belonging in music, in storytelling, and with audiences. “I remember when I was little, I was really shy and I didn’t want to talk to people, but I could sing to them,” she reflects. Music has served as a gateway to human connection for McBryde. Before embarking on her world tour, McBryde spent some of 2023 touring with Jelly Roll, CMA’s New Artist of the Year. “When we got on tour, he said to me, ‘You’ll never feel more at home anywhere than you will on my tour.’ This rang true for his audience, especially being someone who’s covered in tattoos in country music, where being tall and blond and pristine is standard. And I’m short and brunette and covered in tattoos.”

McBryde wants to return that sense of belonging to her audience — to every person. “I want people in active addiction in my crowd. I want people in recovery in my crowd. These are the people that will stick to the devil they know. These are the guys and girls going nowhere. They’ve been told this. They’ve been told they’re pieces of shit by their teachers, their coworkers, their spouses in some cases, and their parents. That’s who I want to sing to.”

When talking about performing her song “6th of October,” McBryde says, “When we sing, ‘Reckless hearts, the tattered and bruised ones, the slightly confused ones, the ones holding stools down in bars, will show up and find us and gently remind us to not be afraid of our scars and who we are.’ That is my favorite thing to watch. When the audience closes their eyes and turn their head to the side and sing ‘slightly confused ones,’ they are in that moment admitting that’s them or recognizing that’s somebody close to them. And that’s a gift that we can’t just give on our own. That’s only through the power of song and live performance that we can offer them just a couple milliseconds of peace.”

McBryde doesn’t just sing to her audience — she commits to deeply connecting with them, even if they cannot hear her voice. She recently began signing lyrics and phrases on stage. After surgery on her vocal cords, she couldn’t speak for weeks, so McBryde learned enough American Sign Language for necessities, like water and food. “I’m still learning, and sometimes slowly,” she says. “But it just became more and more apparent to me that one: I needed to learn more. And then I remembered we’ve got interpreters. And I thought it would be even cooler if I could thank the interpreters myself. And even better, can I thank my non-hearing and hard-of-hearing crowd? Because they’re there, or there wouldn’t be an interpreter. I want to thank them myself and say things like, ‘We see you, we’re happy you’re here, it’s nice to meet you, welcome to my show.’”

She was right — they were there. “The first reaction that really moved me was a lady at a show who said, ‘My sister is 62 years old and has been deaf her entire life and has been invisible her entire life. And you make me feel like she can be seen right now.’” It’s clear McBryde is committed to creating a community of inclusivity and belonging, and this is just one example.

On the inside of her left elbow is a tattoo of a devil staring into a rearview mirror, inspired by her latest album “The Devil I Know.” The album is filled with tender emotions, tough revelations, and the message of staying true to yourself, even when it’s not so pretty. “That’s the devil I know for sure,” she says. “And this really reminds me of my song ‘Blackout Betty,’ and one of the lines that is ‘I’m a real piece of shit sometimes.’ That’s not necessarily gorgeous, but it is true. And it doesn’t have to be pretty to be true. So, I know that bitch is still in the back seat, and she is ready to take over at any time.”

That fiendish passenger may still be in the back seat, but McBryde wouldn’t change a thing. “If I could go back and make it easier on younger me, her skin wouldn’t be as thick, and she wouldn’t be as strong as I get to be now.” It’s that mix of tough exterior, authenticity, and deep connection with audiences that keeps fans returning to the main stage.

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A Glimpse into the Future


Prior to the late 1990s, tattoo culture primarily existed on the outskirts of the mainstream. A badge of honor amongst sailors in the U.S. Navy and cultural subgroups, as well as an artistically rebellious symbol of expression for curators of punk, metal, goth music, and more. Subsequently, during the 2000s, the painfully enticing trend of getting inked transcended emo, hip-hop, the NBA, Hollywood, and the corporate world. Near the turn of the 2020s, a number of tech companies began implementing inventive ways of tatting up their clientele with new software, 3D tattooing, eco-friendly methods, and more. In November, Blackdot, a tech company based in Austin, Texas, introduced the “V1 Device” as part of a game-changing initiative that also includes an online tattoo marketplace where consumers can purchase signature designs from entrepreneurial-minded artists all over the world. Blackdot’s V1 Device generates body art in high definition, utilizing an unprecedented technique that serves as a fresh alternative to modern wireless tattoo machines and traditional hand-tapping methods. The future is here. But, according to the company’s CEO/Founder Joel Pennington, it should not deter tattoo enthusiasts and artists who view the time-honored process as a rite of passage.

“Blackdot is not a substitute for the experience found by way of various traditional tattooing methods,” explained Pennington. “Instead, Blackdot offers an entirely different tattooing experience; it’s an interesting option for tattoo seekers looking for something new and forward-looking…The Blackdot device can be thought of as a futuristic stick-and-poke device whereby each dot that we tattoo is intentional…We use continuous suction for ink removal and are therefore able to tattoo without the need to wipe-think-tattoo-repeat.”

Inkedshop

Alongside Pennington at the forefront of the Blackdot technocentric movement is the company’s Chief Technology Officer Yan Azdoud. The pair of business partners met in 2017 after Pennington took on a mentorship role with a startup established by Azdoud called Project Canary. This experience gave Pennington an up close and personal view of Azdoud’s penchant for navigating scientific principles. It also sparked a resolution about how their ideals in the tech world could add a new dimension to the tattoo industry.

“After the three-month program, I debriefed with Yan Azdoud,” recalled Pennington. “Yan had a great deal of experience with hyper-elastic surfaces, medical devices, and mechanical design–he was uniquely qualified to help bring my vision to fruition.”

Shortly thereafter, Blackdot entered a developmental phase that lasted nearly half a decade. Two years into the stealth period, during the Summer of 2019, the company administered its first-ever tattoo on human skin. In addition to presenting Blackdot’s inaugural recipient with hi-res body art, Pennington wanted to ensure that the gift from his company also came with quality that would stand the test of time without the common necessity of tattoo retouching.

Inkedshop

“Our first human tattoo was executed on a gentleman named Chris Harvey,” Pennington said. “We then developed the first version of our automated tattooing device (the V1), followed by the commercially viable version we’re using today—the V1c… Blackdot is able to minimize the discomfort associated with tattooing. As for healing, we use a slim needle and do not tattoo deeper than necessary. We’ve conducted [more than 90] tattooing sessions over the past five years and have never caused bleeding or scarring.”

Today, Blackdot is fully operational with plans to expand to major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, New York, Miami, and Las Vegas. In recent years, these regions have hosted some of the biggest live events in sports entertainment, from Super Bowl LVI, WrestleMania 39, and Rolling Loud to ComicCon, EDC, and the Met Gala. During his exclusive interview with Inked Magazine, Pennington floated the idea of teaming up with notable fashion lines to provide attendees at similar affairs with customized body art ranging from the song lyrics of iconic recording artists to Marvel Comics’ sketches and skateboard decks from old-school skaters. For now, shoppers can purchase their next tattoos at the company’s flagship location in Austin, Texas, or remotely through the Blackdot Certified Artist Program. The BCA allows online shoppers to survey Flyway designs drawn by prominent visual artists such as Tyler Hobbs and other notable creators.

Kevin Rose, a California-based entrepreneur, recently stopped by Blackdot’s headquarters where he became one of the first costumers to procure Hobbs’ signature Flyway design. The on-camera session depicted the founder of Revision3 resting comfortably in an exam chair while the V1 Device tattooed the image of three birds on his inner right arm. As for the founder of Blackdot? Pennington suggested that the next time he is under the V1 Device, he will get a tattoo that combines the love of his youngest daughter, Naiya, with his admiration for the Smashing Pumpkins. Pennington and his staff met up with Jimmy Chamberlin and Jeff Schroeder from the two-time Grammy Award-winning band in the Winter of 2022 after being given backstage access. 

“I found myself sitting on the couch beside [Schroeder], a Pumpkins guitarist,” Pennington said. “I struck up a conversation and eventually asked if I might show him some tattoo designs made by my young daughter…His favorite was the dragon holding the guitar. He let me take a photo of him holding the drawing and signed the back of it. Naiya would be thrilled. I looked up to see my team was already chatting with [Chamberlin]…They were discussing how he might potentially be able to help Blackdot…I later showed [Chamberlin] Naiya’s designs and asked him the same question. He also went for the dragon holding the guitar and signed the back of it. Naiya’s drawing of a dragon holding a guitar, affectionately referred to as ‘The Pumpkins-approved tattoo,’ is likely my next tattoo.”

Blackdot was made with advanced technology. But if Joel Pennington’s company grows into a well-known commodity, it will likely be due to principles based on diversity, where everyday people and his kids have input just like his business partners and favorite Rock stars.

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Cincoro Tequila x Joshua Vides


 

It was 2018 near mid-city west Los Angeles, California, inside the Seventh Letter Gallery on Fairfax avenue, and a rare scene sparked motorsport nostalgia. Defined by harsh lines and subtle familiarity, an iconic 1995 Acura NSX metaphorically revved its engine as it practically popped off the page with graphic lines that reimagined the cult-classic car into a piece of art. The exhibit showcased a 3D sketch over the speedstar’s metal frame, much like a humorous 90’s cartoon, and it was inexplicably iconic.

Inkedshop

The artist behind the daredevil display is Southern California-based Joshua Vides, a graphic designer and renowned visual artist who is known for his unique interpretations of urban landscapes. A short scroll down his Instagram page reveals an entertaining parody of fire hydrants, fast food, fashion, and freshly-painted Ferraris. Vides’ bread and butter is his approach, which involves using a modern perspective to convey art through a black and white medium to blur the line between what’s real and what’s not. The Acura scene was part of a series that has evolved over the last five years to encapsulate various ideas at the inception of a concept, an exhibit he calls “Reality to Idea.”

Fast forward to 2023, and Vides has used his years of fashion and street art expertise to forge a partnership with momentous luxury spirit brand, Cincoro Tequila. And he’s been able to use a masterful version of his “Reality to Idea” concept to create a culturally-relevant tequila bottle design. Not only was this an incredible opportunity for Vides, it’s Cincoro’s first time collaborating with an artist on a limited edition bottle. So it’s safe to say both parties recognized each other’s ingenious level of talent prior to the collaboration. We imagine most of you will want to snag the sleek añejo (limited to 150 bottles) before it sells out.

Cincoro Tequila was launched in 2019 by five NBA legends including Jeanie Buss of the Los Angeles Lakers, Wes Edens of the Milwaukee Bucks, Wyc Grousbeck of the Boston Celtics, Wyc’s wife Emilia Fazzalari, and most notably, Michael Jordan. The Cincoro brand boasts a robust portfolio of award-winning luxury tequilas including a smooth blanco, an oaky gold, a deep coppery-hued extra añejo, and a complex reposado with a touch of toasted creme brûlée. This hand-picked añejo for the collaboration is no exception to the brand’s quality and approach. In fact, Jordan and Fazzalari personally chose this exquisite variety, so we imagine that no detail was left unnoticed. Timed perfectly for Miami Art Week, this exclusive collaboration was featured during a private, invitation-only affair at the Edition Hotel where guests could mingle with well-to-do patrons and try sips of the luxe spirit.

Inkedshop

Much like its fine quality, the tequila itself is meticulously crafted to tantalize your senses. A delicate swirl in your glass and you’ll breathe in the infectious aroma of maple and orange rind. After one small sip of the añejo, you’ll immediately taste a richness that can be attributed to the heart-warming, sweet and bitter essence of oak, agave, butterscotch, and dark chocolate. Made of 100% agave and at 40% alcohol per volume, this tequila has an elegant finish of dried fruit and baking spices. While Cincoro Tequilas are made to enjoy neat, specialty cocktails are also a recommendation. Choose to mix yours into a delightfully dapper old fashioned cocktail using light agave nectar, bitters, orange peel, and a maraschino cherry.

The bottle design itself pays tribute to Vides’ love for monochrome and pop art. Adorning Cincoro’s slender bottle, the black and white polka dot motif is reminiscent of Vide’s 2018 Acura installation – reiterating his signature cartoon-like feel. Defined by immersive illustrations and bold outlines, pop art has been the premise for street aesthetics since the early 1950’s drawing inspiration from popular culture and current events. A blend of humor, irony, and color takes this tequila bottle to a playfully clever level. To enunciate the level of luxury, every bottle arrives in a gift box with a signed and numbered sketch for authenticity. 

“I was able to design it with a 360-degree approach, allowing me to accentuate the authentic beauty of the bottle in a new way,” Vides said. “ This creation is one I’m proud to share with my community and Cincoro’s devoted fan base.”

However you interpret the bottle and perceive the intricacies of Vide’s “Reality to Idea” concept, this collaboration results in a fine collector’s piece for any home. It acts as a symbol of the realities of downtown Los Angeles –  the beauty and hardship of inner-city life  – and merges it with influence from street style and close-knit neighborhoods to educate all ages with the truest form of cultural appreciation. Front and center in your collection, the añejo artist yearns to have a subtle presence within your most treasured safe haven. Priced at $649.99 (750ml), the Cincoro Añejo x Josh Vides collaboration was made available online for exclusive pre-release through luxury e-commerce platform, ReserveBar and has sold at an exceptional rate. Aged 20 months, it’s ideal for placing on your favorite wooden storage case for years to come…. if nothing else, as a subtle reminder of the art and our past.

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