Boston Tattoo Convention: Jason Maybruck

Boston Tattoo Convention
September 12-14
Boston Center for The Arts, 539 Tremont Street
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Bostonist keeps chatting up the tattoin' types. Today's victim is Jason Maybruck of Darkwave Tattoos in Roxbury.

How did you get started tattooing?
i got started tattooing almost five years ago. since day one i've been drawing and painting. my mother says i was drawing happy faces on my etch-a-sketch before i could talk. i think that says a lot about my direction in life... at some point i was hanging out at a tattoo shop a lot drawing, nursing a broken wrist, when my mentor Joel Mejias was like, "holy shit you're gonna be a good tattooer someday." here i am in boston. he was right, i'm pretty good.

What is your favorite style of tattooing?
i offer the art collector a fresh style for the world of tattooing that you wont find anywhere else in the hub. i have a style all my own and that's what i love to do but i crave a good challenge. i guess if you don't challenge me it won't be fun.

What's your favorite tattoo that you have / have done?
probably my giant broccoli.... but i did it myself.... actually micah helped. there are no best tattoos in boston.... most of the licensed artists in boston are awesome at what they do here..... that's why boston has so many well decorated folks.

What's the main thing people should know about tattoos, either getting them or in general?
i guess you should have fun with the process. some people are just so serious.

What's the most annoying question / the question you get the most about tattoos?
the most annoying question is obviously "does it hurt?". yes, they all hurt.

What do you think of Miami Ink / L.A. Ink and similar shows' effect on the industry?
i think the tv shows should stop making cover ups seem instantaneous... i've never seen one. good luck to those artists but i dont think anyone in the industry thinks those artists are all that great. i think there is a tattoo wars one [Yes there is! -Ed.] with good tattooers.

What's the first or best thing that someone who wants to be a tattoo artist can do?
wait in line or go find the next big thing.

Do you have any openings for tattooing during the convention?
i'm not sure actually... oh crap that's this week huh? [Yes it is! Also, Jason is known for his flowers--make sure to ask him about getting one. -Ed.]

Images of tattoos by Jason from BTC