The New Tattoo

I was planning on saving this post until it was fully healed, but I've been getting some questions about the new tattoo that popped up in my recent Philadelphia post.

It's pretty obvious that Chicago was a huge part of my life and growing experience, and when I found out that I would be moving away I knew I wanted to get a "Chicago" tattoo. It's been nearly two years since I've had any work done.  While I like the Chicago flag and skyline and hot dogs and all of those traditional Chicago themes, I went for something that was more on an inside joke and running theme with friends.

Now, I'll spare everyone the details of how Pig Lincoln (or Abra-HAM) came into fruition, but essentially it was a concept that I knew would something really enjoyable if pulled off correctly. My biggest Chicago crush, Skyler, told me about Deluxe Tattoo — which just happened to be pretty close to where I was staying in Andersonville. I looked through the artists' portfolios online (and I can tell you — holy shit — the artists there have some solid work!) and landed on Zach Stuka. His style and colors were perfect for little Piggy Lincoln.

I went into the shop last weekend to meet Zach and tell him my idea. I gave him pretty vague details — "a pig bust dressed as Abe Lincoln" — and trusted him with the rest.

When I came back in on Thursday for my appointment, I was blown away with how accurate it was! He seriously nailed it — and the book was such an awesome addition.


Zach worked at an awesome pace and was such a pleasure to sit and chat with for the quick two hours. I highly recommend checking out Deluxe if you're in Chicago. I know that when I go back to visit, I'm going to try and get some work by other artists there!


So this is Pig Lincoln, a little swollen and fresh. You'll probably see him pop up in many posts down the road. What can I say? I love him!

Check out Zach's portfolio here or follow him on Instagram at @zstuka666. He will be on the road this week — at Legacy Irons in Greensboro, North Carolina, from the 27-30th and at Absolute Art in Richmond, Virginia, from  November 1-3.