Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is home to a significant piece of tattoo history at Black Star Tattoo. This isn’t just another tattoo shop; it’s a studio steeped in the legacy of Stephan “Lefty” Lanphear, the man who spearheaded the legalization of tattooing in Massachusetts back in 2000. For those seeking exceptional body art with a rich backstory, Black Star Tattoo stands as a testament to perseverance and passion within the tattoo industry.
Lefty Lanphear’s journey began with a simple desire to open a tattoo parlor on Martha’s Vineyard. He soon discovered the surprising reality: tattooing was illegal in Massachusetts, restricted solely to physicians for medical purposes. Unwilling to accept this, Lanphear challenged the status quo, initiating a lawsuit against the state that ultimately overturned the 40-year ban on tattooing. “[I] decided that the only way that I was going to be able to open up a shop on the Vineyard was to try to change the law,” Lanphear explained, highlighting his determined spirit.
His victory was not just personal; it paved the way for the entire tattoo industry in Massachusetts. However, legalization came without guidelines. Lanphear, recognizing the need for structure, joined a committee to establish regulations for this newly legal art form. He recalled the state’s unpreparedness, noting, “The state was so unprepared for it. I don’t think they thought I was going to win.” The Department of Public Health, unfamiliar with the nuances of tattooing, was suddenly tasked with overseeing this emerging industry.
During the legal battle, from the early 1990s to 2000, Lanphear honed his craft across the country, primarily in New York. In 2003, he brought his expertise to the Berkshires, opening the renowned Lefty’s World Famous on Dalton Avenue. This tattoo shop quickly became a landmark for tattoo enthusiasts, building a reputation for quality and artistry under Lanphear’s guidance and the talents of other artists.
Today, the legacy continues at Black Star Tattoo, located on Elm Street. Lanphear now shares his 32 years of tattooing knowledge with his daughter, Viviana Lanphear. The studio is part of a family affair, with the building owned by his wife, Jenna Lanphear, who also operates her Evergreen Salon within the same space. This transition to a smaller, more streamlined operation was partly influenced by the pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift for Black Star Tattoo. Lanphear decided to consolidate from a larger studio on Tyler Street to the current Elm Street location. “To simplify and make the operation more streamlined, I padlocked the building, we both came over here… just streamlined everything to kind of make it really much easier,” he explained. This strategic move ensured the studio’s resilience during uncertain times. While client hesitancy initially followed reopening, Black Star Tattoo has since regained its pre-pandemic momentum, now tattooing upwards of 20 clients weekly between Lefty and his team.
A new chapter began in June when Viviana Lanphear started taking appointments, marking the third generation of Lanphear tattoo artists. Having grown up in tattoo studios, Viviana’s path seemed almost predestined. She specializes in “twig” tattoos – delicate, often botanical designs – quickly gaining popularity. Her initial social media announcement led to bookings stretching months in advance, demonstrating the immediate appeal of her artistry. Viviana’s immersion in the tattoo world from a young age, even attending virtual classes within the studio during the pandemic, solidified her decision to embrace the craft. “It’s such a unique experience and you meet so many new people and there’s such a rich culture and history behind it. I just can’t imagine not wanting to be involved with it,” Viviana shared, expressing her deep connection to tattooing.
Lefty emphasizes the familial aspect of the tattoo world. “Legitimate tattoo studios, they become like these multi-layered family units,” he explained. Viviana’s upbringing immersed her in this culture, surrounded by tattoo artists and enthusiasts, fostering a natural progression into the family business. He proudly displays a devil tattoo on his leg, a testament to his daughter’s early talent. Passing down the craft through generations is a cherished tradition in established tattoo families, particularly those with a lineage tracing back to the roots of American electric tattooing, as Lanphear’s does.
Viviana echoes this sentiment, recognizing the importance of preserving and continuing this heritage. For Lefty, passing on his knowledge is crucial. “It’s very important for me to have that passed on to somebody that I know is going to do it justice and is going to protect it and not just dole it out freely,” he stated, emphasizing the value of responsible knowledge transfer within the tattoo community.
Even if tattooing isn’t Viviana’s lifelong career, Lefty values the skills and knowledge she gains. Currently, Lefty focuses on large-scale, multi-session pieces, reflecting a shift in tattoo trends towards more extensive body coverage compared to the statement pieces of the past. He still recalls the transformative experience of his first tattoo, describing it as “magic” and noting how tattooing provided him with opportunities when traditional paths seemed closed.
The Lanphear family’s connection to the Berkshires extends beyond tattooing. They own multiple properties, including Green Heron Farm in Hinsdale. During farming season, a farm stand outside Black Star Tattoo offers fresh produce, further rooting the studio in the local community. Black Star Tattoo, therefore, is more than just a tattoo shop; it’s a family legacy, a historical landmark, and a vibrant part of Pittsfield’s cultural fabric.
