Tampa Bay Arts and Culture Oral History Project
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Interviewer
Dahlia Thomas
Publication Date
2024
Date
2024-07-17
Abstract
In this oral history, Dahlia Thomas interviews Tampa-based tattoo artist, Charlie Smith, who reflects on the familial influences shaping his artistic development and the challenges of securing a tattooing apprenticeship. He discusses his initial interest in tattooing, his exploration of Japanese art, and creative aspects of tattooing. Charlie describes the science and his approach to color tattoos on individuals of color. He examines the role of representation in the tattoo industry, drawing on his experience. Charlie Smith concludes with aspirations to establish a studio and achieve institutional recognition for his work, emphasizing the cultural significance of tattoo artistry. Further information on Charlie, his artwork, and his tattoos can be found on Instagram under the handle "cholly_boy".
Keywords
Tattoo artists, Body piercing services, Drawings, Art, Japanese art, Stigma Ink Tattoo Studio, Jean-Michael Basquiat (1960-1988)
Extent
01:00:20; 28 page transcript
Subject: geographic
Hillsborough County (Fla.); Tampa (Fla.); Orlando (Fla.)
Language
English
Digital Date
2025
Type
Oral History
Format
Digital only
Identifier
TBAC-01-smith-charlie final
Recommended Citation
Smith, Charlie, "Charlie Smith Oral History Interview" (2024). Tampa Bay Arts and Culture Oral History Project. 13.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/arts_culture_ohp/13
Rights Statement
