For some, passions ignite early and burn eternally. For tattoo artist Holly Jane, that moment of clarity struck around the age of fifteen. It wasn’t just a passing interest; it was a profound realization: she was meant to tattoo. This powerful calling, a Forever Tattoo etched in her soul, set her on a life-altering path.
Growing up in Massachusetts, Holly faced an initial hurdle. At that time, tattooing was illegal in the state. However, this legal barrier only fueled her determination. She immersed herself in tattoo culture, devouring tattoo magazines and meticulously redrawing designs, honing her skills in anticipation of the day she could officially pursue her dream. This unwavering commitment is the spirit behind every forever tattoo she creates – a testament to enduring passion.
The landscape of tattooing in Massachusetts shifted dramatically thanks to Stephan Lanphear. His decade-long legal battle culminated in 2001 with the lifting of the tattoo ban. This landmark victory paved the way for artists like Holly to practice their craft legally. Grateful for this opportunity, Holly sought out Stephan, spending summers in Martha’s Vineyard and working at his Western Massachusetts studio. This early experience was invaluable, setting the stage for her future in the world of forever tattoo artistry.
Furthering her education, Holly secured a pivotal apprenticeship with Little John Bury in North Carolina in 2002. Working in a bustling, high-volume studio in Greensboro provided an intense learning environment and solidified her foundational skills. This period holds a special place in her journey, an era of rapid growth and deep connection. Being Little John Bury’s last apprentice was a distinct honor, and his memory remains a guiding force in her approach to creating lasting forever tattoos.
In June 2009, Holly returned to Massachusetts, seeking solace and a fresh start after navigating challenging times. She channeled her energy into realizing a long-held dream, a studio concept she had discussed with John Bury before his passing. This vision materialized as Always and Forever Tattoo in Watertown, MA, just outside of Boston. For over a decade, A&F Tattoo has thrived as Watertown’s first and only tattoo studio, a testament to Holly’s dedication to bringing the art of forever tattoo to her community.
With over 20 years of experience, Holly emphasizes the importance of versatility and continuous self-improvement. Her ability to work across diverse styles – from vibrant color pieces to intricate black and gray, traditional designs to realistic portraits, and beloved motifs like roses, flowers, skulls, cats, and birds – sets her apart. She embraces hybrid techniques, crafting unique and personalized forever tattoos that resonate with each client’s vision. This stylistic breadth allows her to connect with a wide range of clients, each interaction enriching her growth as both an artist and an individual in the forever tattoo world.
What Holly cherishes most about tattooing is the collaborative process with her clients. For her, it’s not about imposing her artistic ego, but about bringing the client’s vision to life. It’s about the deeply personal meaning behind each forever tattoo. She sees herself as a guide, helping clients explore possibilities and refine their ideas, whether it’s transforming a simple concept into a large-scale masterpiece or creating a delicate, single-point tattoo that encapsulates cherished memories.
Every forever tattoo Holly creates is meticulously tailored to the individual’s body and story. She understands the profound impact a tattoo can have, viewing it as an act of self-empowerment and even healing. Witnessing a client’s joy and confidence as they admire their new forever tattoo is the ultimate reward, fueling her passion and commitment to detail. For Holly Jane, being a tattoo artist is a privilege, and she deeply appreciates the trust her clients place in her to create lasting works of art on their skin – forever tattoos that tell their unique stories.
