I  was born in Ohio, and grew up outside of Dayton. My first idea for a career (driving a school bus for singing puppets) never materialized so I settled quickly on my second choice… Art.

With the help of supportive parents I went to the Columbus College of Art and Design for two years and then transferred to Wright State University. I never acquired a degree but I did cement a love of experimentation that survives to this day.

 I moved to Tucson AZ in 1994 and in 1995 focused all my energy into the art of tattooing which is how I make my living to this day. I have been in Everett WA since 2002 and since moving here have begun exploring making art outside of tattooing. I still love to experiment with new (to me) media and have started to devote more time to creating art for art's sake.

 I now have a private studio where I tattoo on an appointment basis and make as much art as time allows. The future is waiting for me, so here I go!

Michael T. Gardner 2008