“As a child I always had a feel and an eye for art. I think I could draw before I could walk. I would see other people with tattoos and just couldn’t help myself from staring at their tattoos. I just thought how cool it was to have artwork on your skin that you could carry around with you.” – Robert F. Treat
Robert F. Treat’s journey into the world of tattooing is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the unexpected turns life can take. From a childhood fascination with body art, despite parental disapproval, to becoming the owner of Red Beard Ink, his story is etched with dedication and a deep love for the craft. While Beard Tattoos might be a modern trend for some, Robert’s classic artistry and commitment to quality are timeless, attracting clients seeking exceptional ink.
Growing up, tattoos were a forbidden allure. Robert recalls his parents associating them with “cut throats and sailors,” a far cry from the artistic expression he envisioned. However, his path took a formative turn in 1988 when he joined the US Army Airborne Infantry. It was during airborne school at Ft Benning, GA, that he got his first tattoo at a shop named “Rocket Rick’s.” This initial experience ignited a deeper interest, even during his subsequent station in Ft Clayton, Panama. Despite wanting more ink, concerns about sterilization standards led him to wait until his return to the States, specifically Ft Polk, LA.
His early attempts to find a tattoo shop in Ft Polk were mixed. A negative experience at an unnamed shop was quickly overshadowed by his discovery of “Rick’s Tattoo.” This shop, run by the biker duo Rick “Yo Mama” McNeely and Neal “Rooster” Warden, became Robert’s true introduction to the art form. He was captivated by their skill and dedication, finding himself a regular fixture, initially as a client and soon as an eager observer. He would even take on tasks like emptying trash and sweeping floors just to be in their artistic environment.
One pivotal night, “Rooster” recognized Robert’s burgeoning passion. Observing him intently, Rooster stopped mid-tattoo and asked, “I see that f**kin’ look in your eye… You want to learn how to tattoo, don’t you?” The question resonated deeply. Robert had never explicitly considered tattooing as a career, but in that moment, it clicked. Serendipitously, Rick was contemplating semi-retirement, seeking to travel with his wife. Following a conversation initiated by Rooster, Rick decided to give Robert a chance.
Robert’s apprenticeship began humbly, drawing stencils by hand for several months. The ultimate test arrived when he was tasked with his first tattoo – on Rooster himself. Nerves were high, but Rooster’s guidance and encouragement saw him through. Under the mentorship of Rick and Neal, Robert learned not only the technical skills of tattooing but also the business acumen and life lessons that came with it. He developed a profound gratitude for both men, especially Neal, who became like a brother. Tragically, this mentorship was cut short when Neal passed away in November 1991. Devastated by the loss, Robert felt his world crumble and considered abandoning tattooing altogether.
It was Neal’s mother, Mrs. Annie, who steered him back on course. Her poignant question, “Do you think that Neal would want you to throw away what he has given you?” struck a chord. Robert persevered, carrying forward the legacy of his mentors. He moved back to Pennsylvania, where his parents resided.
Despite their initial disapproval of tattoos, Robert’s desire to pursue this path was unwavering. Lacking equipment, he secretly sought a loan from his mother, who supported his ambition on the condition that his father remained unaware – a secret now revealed through this very article, as Robert humorously notes. Equipped, but unable to tattoo at his parents’ house, Robert found an unconventional solution. Through a friend, he connected with a biker who offered him space in his home in exchange for tattoos. This biker connection, a recurring theme in Robert’s life, proved fruitful, leading to work opportunities and enabling him to attend art school.
Robert enrolled at Bradley Academy for the Visual Arts in York, PA, majoring in Graphic Design. After a year tattooing from the biker’s residence, he moved on, joining “Picture Yourself Tattoos,” owned by yet another biker named “Wolf.” This brief stint further solidified his experience before he ventured out to tattoo from his own place.
In 1994, Robert married Denise. The不稳定 nature of income in the tattoo industry led him to seek stable employment. Utilizing his welding trade, he worked during the day and tattooed in the evenings for three years. When welding began to impact his health, he transitioned to armed security work, continuing to tattoo part-time.
The year 2000 marked a turning point. Eight years after returning to PA, Robert received a call from a former apprentice from 1992. His apprentice had become the owner of “Pro Ink Tattoo Studios of Central PA,” a chain of shops, and offered Robert a management position at the Harrisburg location. With his wife’s support, Robert embraced the opportunity to return to tattooing full-time.
At Pro Ink, Robert expanded his skillset, self-teaching body piercing, which he has practiced for over four years. He revitalized the Harrisburg shop, significantly growing its clientele. After managing the location for over two years, until July 2002, unforeseen financial issues led to the shop losing its lease. Seizing the moment, Robert took over the lease, rebranding it as “Red Beard Ink, Tattooing and Body Piercing.”
Robert’s philosophy centers on dedication and artistry. He believes giving “150% of my art and of myself” is the key to attracting and retaining clients. Through the Red Beard Ink website and his continued passion, he aims to connect with clients worldwide, offering not just tattoos, but a piece of his artistic journey. Whether you’re considering a bold beard tattoo or a classic piece, artists like Robert at Red Beard Ink embody the enduring appeal of tattoo art.
Take Care & God Bless,
Bob “Trixter” Treat
PS: Always be true to your heart, for only you know where your heart lies.
