An American Traditional Tattoo Artist Inking the Greater Dayton Area.
Ready to bring your tattoo vision to life?
THE STYLE
American Traditional tattoos, often referred to as “Old School” tattoos, are distinguished by their strong, clean black outlines that give these designs a bold and enduring presence. They are characterized by the use of solid blocks of color—commonly red, green, yellow, and blue, which contributes to their striking visual clarity. The style is known for its iconic imagery, including hearts, roses, eagles, anchors, skulls, daggers, nautical stars, swallows, and pin-up figures, each imbued with its own traditional meaning within the tattoo community.
In American Traditional tattoos, the detail is kept to a minimum, emphasizing simple and clear imagery that remains readable even from a distance. The themes often center around concepts of love, loyalty, nature, the sea, and military pride just to name a few. Banners and ribbons are also a common feature in these tattoos, typically bearing names, significant dates, or mottos.
Symbolism and superstition play a significant role in the imagery, with various elements like swallows and anchors having specific meanings, often derived from maritime tradition. The tattoos favor stylization over realistic depiction, adhering to a set of proportions that lends them a classic and straightforward charm. This style traces back to the tattoo traditions of the 1930s and earlier, with iconic artists such as Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins playing a key role in its development. The bold lines and limited color palette were partly a product of the tattooing technology and pigments available at the time. Yet, even with advancements in tattooing, the American Traditional style has maintained its popularity, cherished for its timeless aesthetic and the rich culture it represents.
”Tattoos are the unspoken language of the soul.
”A tattoo is the only thing you take to the grave.
”Tattoos have a power and magic all their own.
”A tattoo is a true poetic creation, and is always more than meets the eye.
THE STORY
Hi! I am Zane Nelson.
Born and raised in Dayton, OH, my journey into the captivating world of tattoos started when I was just eight years old. This early fascination turned into my passion, and my chosen career path in 2022 when I was fortunate enough to begin an apprenticeship at Blue Byrd Tattoo. Here, I am honing my skills under the guidance of David Kliber, the esteemed owner of Blue Byrd. David isn’t just an incredibly talented tattoo artist; he’s a veteran in the industry with a remarkable 30 years of experience. Working alongside him, I’m not only learning the art of tattooing but also absorbing wisdom from his vast years in the business.
In my tattoo artistry, heavily influenced by the American Traditional style, I create designs with bold outlines, rich shading, and vibrant colors that do more than decorate the skin; they reflect each client’s personality and story. My work, inspired by my passions for art, music, and cinema, goes beyond mere body art—it’s a collaborative journey, blending my artistic vision with the unique narratives of my clients, forging tattoos that are enduring symbols of personal identity and connection.
THE INZANETY
Tattooing isn’t just a job for me; it’s a passion that never fades. I’m continually eager to embrace the creative visions of my clients and enjoy the challenge that each new design brings. Whether it’s a first tattoo or a milestone addition to a client’s collection, I’m committed to delivering a memorable and personal tattoo experience.
