It had been more than three decades since I last sat in a tattoo chair, and for a long time, I never imagined I would do it again. Life moved on, priorities shifted, and tattoos became part of my past rather than my present. However, recent events sparked something in me and pushed me to finally reconsider that long-standing pause.
With that decision made, I found myself at Golden Stag Tattoo in Kansas City, stepping into a space that immediately felt welcoming and grounded in craft. I booked a session with Steve Bayman, whose work stood out for its precision and character. Walking in, there was a mix of nerves and excitement—something I hadn’t felt in years—but it quickly turned into confidence once the process began.
Sitting down for the tattoo brought back memories I didn’t expect, along with a new appreciation for how much the art and culture have evolved. Steve’s approach was thoughtful and focused, making the experience feel collaborative rather than rushed. Every detail mattered, and that level of care made all the difference after such a long break.
When the session was finished, I walked away with more than just fresh ink. The tattoo felt like a marker of change, resilience, and personal meaning shaped by recent moments in my life. It wasn’t about reliving the past—it was about acknowledging where I am now.
After 30 years, breaking the streak turned out to be the right decision. The experience reminded me that some chapters are worth reopening, especially when they carry purpose and pride. Here’s hoping this new streak continues, stronger and more meaningful than the last 🇺🇸🤘🏼
About the Author
