Ricky 

A local hero and renowned tattooer with an illustrious career, spanning decades, Ricky joins the Ink Couture Tattoos team at the North St. Mary's location as a resident artist.  Tattoo ink runs in Ricky's veins: his father a well-known artist in his own right. Ricky, is also a proud US Army Veteran which shapes his styles, artwork and designs.  Stop in and schedule your appointment with Ricky today. 

How long have you been tattooing professionally (in a licensed shop)?
I’ve been tattooing professionally for over a decade. Even while serving in the military, I remained active in licensed shops, continuing to sharpen my skills and evolve as an artist
whenever I had the opportunity.

What inspired you to get into the art of tattooing? 
Art has been a constant in my life. My father was a well-known artist, so from a young age I was raised to see the world differently—to observe it, interpret it, and express it through
various mediums and canvases. Tattooing became a natural extension of that upbringing: a living, breathing canvas where art carries meaning for life.

Tell us about your preferred style of work.
My foundation is black and grey realism—that’s where my discipline and technical fundamentals were built. Over time, I expanded those foundations into a more neotraditional approach, blending realism with bold structure, contrast, and longevity. The result is a style that’s both detailed and timeless.

What other styles are you known for?
I’m especially known for black and grey Chicano, Aztec, traditional, and realism work. I don’t limit myself to one category—each piece is approached with versatility, intention, and respect for the story behind it.

What inspires you as an artist?
Life itself—and the lives of the people I work with. Every client brings a story, an
experience, or a moment worth honoring, and that human connection is what fuels my creativity.

Why should someone pick you for their next tattoo/to be their artist?
I treat every tattoo as if it were my own. This isn’t a shortcut or a trend for me—it’s a lifelong craft. My goal is to create work that stands the test of time. I want my clients to look back and say their tattoo was one of their greatest memories, never a regret.

Anything else you'd like prospective clients to know about you?
​You’re not just getting a tattoo—you’re getting a piece of art built with intention, care, and pride. Get ready for one of the dopest tattoos you’ll ever wear. I’ll see you soon.