Hot Rod Roundup
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Ink and Pistons Tattoo Turns 5! When Amanda Linton and her husband, J.R., founded Ink and Pistons Tattoo and SlushBox Art Gallery in 2012, they aimed to create a different kind of parlor, where tattoo artists could also be recognized as fine artists. The shop has gained a loyal following of customers and art collectors over the past five years, so why not celebrate with a big bash?
The 5th Anniversary Party and Hot Rod Roundup is open to anyone who wants to peruse art, show off their ride and celebrate with some of South Florida’s most talented tattooers. The shop will also be giving away $2,500 worth of gift cards to Ink and Pistons. Lake Worth-based food truck PS561 will be serving up hot dogs, and no birthday party would be complete without cake, drinks and snacks.
Many tattoo shops can appear dark and eerie, but Ink and Pistons defies this standard with bright colors and cool cars. Bright greens and blues pop from accented gray walls to create a laidback yet fun atmosphere. Although the parlor itself is five years old, the Lintons started SlushBox in 2005 as an online-only store as vehicle for J.R.’s artwork. Now you can find 1,000 square feet in the gallery full of lowbrow artwork, which has roots in 1970s California, as well as Kustom Kulture art, which consists of drawings and paintings of pinups, hot rods and rockabilly imagery. “Art is so important in tattooing, so they kind of go hand in hand,” says Amanda Linton, who also curates the gallery. “We wanted to give [the artists] a space to not only tattoo but also grow as a fine artist. People realize that and appreciate it.”
Among the artists highlighted that evening will be Japan-based Kurono and Kustom Kulture artist Candy Wild. Of course, Ink and Piston’s own artists will also have their own work to show off. J.R. Linton’s “Last Stand” features a determined and realistic-looking Mario holding his mallet like a baseball bat, ready to swat at a nearby Koopa Paratroopa (flying turtle) and a menacing ball and chain.
“We thought it was cool that customers could understand and see the amazing creations that our artists spend time making outside of tattooing,” said Amanda Linton. “That’s definitely been part of the growth since we opened.”
Ink & Pistons Tattoo 5th Anniversary Party & Hot Rod Roundup will take place Saturday, July 8 from 7-11pm at Ink and Pistons Tattoo & SlushBox Art Gallery, 2716 S. Dixie Hwy., West Palm Beach. Free. www.inkandpistons.com. ~ Olivia Feldman
