Biography

Johnny, the visionary behind Texas Body Art and the creative force as a tattoo artist, commenced his illustrious journey into the world of tattooing at the tender age of 14, an adventure that unfolded in the year 1981. As his passion for this art form deepened, Johnny’s talent and dedication paved the way for a remarkable career that left an indelible mark in the tattooing realm.

In 1992, a pivotal turning point emerged as Johnny embraced the professional sphere by joining the ranks at Shaw’s Tattoo, a pivotal milestone in his artistic odyssey. Swiftly, Johnny’s reputation began to ascend as he demonstrated a remarkable prowess for crafting tattoos that captivated the imagination and etched their way into the annals of tattooing history.

A defining moment in Johnny’s career transpired in the 1990s when he tattooed none other than the towering basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal, famously known as Shaq. During his tenure at Shaw’s Tattoo, Johnny immortalized Shaq with the iconic Superman tattoo, a feat that etched his name into the world of sports and entertainment. The year 1992 marked another notable achievement when Johnny conceived the distinctive TWISM tattoo for Shaq, further solidifying his reputation as a masterful tattoo artist.

However, Johnny’s talents didn’t stop there. Over the years, he drew the admiration of numerous luminaries, including the members of Triple Six Mafia, Piggy D, the guitarist of the renowned Rob Zombie, and later, he became the preferred tattoo artist for a roster of Houston Texans football players, a list that included notable names like Arian Foster, Steve Slaton, Owen Daniels, and Glover Quinn.

One of the pinnacle moments in Johnny’s artistic journey came when he had the distinct honor of inking The World Famous Enigma, adorning his chest with a complex and enigmatic puzzle of tattoos. This feat showcased Johnny’s remarkable skill and artistry.

Adding another layer to his illustrious career, Johnny embarked on a journey touring tattoo conventions, a commendable endeavor that spanned an impressive eight-year period. Throughout this time, he accumulated a staggering number of accolades, with over 100 awards bestowed upon him in recognition of his exceptional neotraditional style, a distinctive genre of tattooing that Johnny himself pioneered right in the heart of Texas.

Furthermore, Johnny’s contributions to the world of tattooing extended beyond his own remarkable creations. He generously shared his knowledge and expertise, serving as a source of inspiration for countless emerging artists. His influence and mentorship played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of many individuals in the industry, leaving an enduring legacy in his wake.

Regrettably, as of 2021, Johnny made the heartfelt decision to retire from the art of tattooing, concluding an extraordinary chapter in the history of this age-old craft. Despite his retirement, his indelible mark and lasting impact on the world of tattoo artistry will continue to inspire and influence generations of artists to come.

Johnny is now working as a fishing guide on Texas lakes . Raising his son and Family while managing and operating all 3 businesses . 

View Johnny tattooing in action here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-uvnraTXbw