Tony Olivias

@tonyolivias3

A true tattoo legend - Tony Olivias, the founder and owner of Sacred Heart Tattoo. With an impressive 38 years of experience under his belt, Tony has etched his name in the tattoo industry. This ink maestro has achieved over 100 world titles, gracing the pages of every major tattoo magazine across the globe. His artwork even found its place of honor in the museum of natural history - talk about leaving an indelible mark!

Tony's tattoo journey began at the tender age of 15 in Tucson, Arizona. Starting off with hand-poked tattoos using nothing more than a needle and thread, he soon embraced the DIY spirit. When his brother Henry introduced him to a homemade-style tattoo machine with a tape recorder for the motor, a toothbrush for the handle, and a ballpoint pen and guitar string for the needle, Tony's mind was blown. It was the spark that ignited his passion for not just tattooing but also crafting tattoo machines. His first creation? A rotary machine that kick-started his career 38 years ago.

Over the years, Tony's artistic prowess led him on a tattooing journey across the United States and beyond. From working at Dixieland Tattoos in Panama City Beach, Florida, alongside the talented Mr. Adam West, to joining Ancient Art Tattoo in Virginia under the mentorship of industry veterans JD Crowe and Jerry Riegger, Tony absorbed invaluable wisdom and skills. Jerry, in particular, became an incredible mentor who introduced Tony to renowned names like Jack Rudy, Brian Everett, Mr. Lyle Tuttle, and many more.

Tony's artistic journey has taken him around the world, tattooing in locations as diverse as Australia, Austria, Germany, Sweden, Holland, Panama City, Ottawa, Mexico City, and countless cities across the United States. His passion for tattooing and the friendships he's formed with legendary artists like Jack Rudy, Brian Everett, Lyle Tuttle, Bob Tyrell, and Big Gus have made this industry what it is today.

Though Tony Olivias passed away in 2022, his legacy lives on in the hearts of tattoo enthusiasts worldwide. His contributions to the tattoo industry and his unique artistic style have left an indelible mark, forever inspiring the inked community.