For those immersed in any thriving artistic community, it’s clear that the scene’s vibrancy extends far beyond just the artists themselves. Chicago, renowned for its rich musical heritage, owes much of its creative energy to an often unseen network of support – independent record stores, intimate music venues, recording studios, and dedicated instrument shops. But there’s another vital thread in this cultural tapestry, one often overlooked: the gifted tattoo artist. And when it comes to Chicago tattoo artistry, few names resonate as powerfully as Ben Wahhh and his legendary shop, Deluxe Tattoo.
Located on Irving Park Road, nestled between Southport and Ashland, Deluxe Tattoo is more than just a studio; it’s a landmark. This Saturday marks its 20th anniversary, a testament to Ben Lewis’s – a Beverly native also known as Ben Wahhh – dedication and artistry. Deluxe Tattoo has become an internationally recognized name in the world of ink, a place where passion for art and community intertwine.
While the history of tattooing is vast and its techniques intricate – exploring its myriad forms and the profound personal connections it fosters could fill volumes – that’s a journey for another time, perhaps even a museum exhibit like the one recently hosted at the Field Museum. What we can delve into is the unique experience of Deluxe Tattoo and Ben Wahhh, and why it holds such a special place within Chicago’s cultural landscape and the hearts of tattoo enthusiasts.
My introduction to Ben and Deluxe Tattoo came through trusted friends, guitarist Tony Vortis and music aficionado Kate Darling. While they were polite about my existing tattoos, there was a clear suggestion: why hadn’t I sought out Ben sooner? (The simple answer was geography; I wasn’t living in Chicago at the time). Even before this personal recommendation, Deluxe Tattoo’s reputation preceded it. Whispers of its excellence echoed through the music scene, with numerous celebrated musicians singing its praises – names I won’t drop, respecting Ben’s humble nature.
Stories circulated, like that of a road manager for a rock superstar who would escape the chaos of tour life by finding refuge and a dose of Chicago cool at Deluxe during Metro residencies. These anecdotes painted a picture of more than just a tattoo shop; it was a sanctuary.
My own journey with Deluxe began not long after its inception. The exact first piece is lost to memory, but each visit solidified my desire to return. This continued until, just recently, we completed two full sleeves. For now, I declare myself “done,” a statement Ben greets with a knowing laugh, confident I’ll be back. And he’s likely right; the allure of Deluxe is hard to resist.
Ben’s story and the trajectory of his career are well-documented, notably in a compelling profile by Liz Armstrong in The Reader back in 2002. However, one pivotal moment in Deluxe Tattoo’s history deserves revisiting, as Ben himself would likely remain silent on the matter.
About a decade ago, the Lakeview neighborhood, rebranded as the “Southport Corridor” by developers, decided it had outgrown certain establishments, including the infamous El Gato Negro transvestite bar. After bureaucratic pressures forced its closure, the city turned its attention to Deluxe Tattoo.
Ben reached out, asking if I would write a letter of support. As a local resident, contributor to Chicago Public Radio, professor at Columbia College Chicago, and parent of a Blaine Elementary student nearby, I was more than willing. Though the original letter is lost, I recall emphasizing Deluxe Tattoo’s importance as a responsible and vital local business. I championed it as being as essential to the neighborhood as Southport Blooms, Grace Cleaners, Klein True Value Hardware, and the Music Box Theater. I even declared that if my daughter ever desired a tattoo, Deluxe would be the only place I’d trust.
This sentiment was widely shared. The outpouring of community support was immense, and unlike many other beloved Chicago underground rock institutions – Lounge Ax, Ronnie’s, The Fireside Bowl, Double Door – Deluxe Tattoo was spared.
Now, 20 years on, Deluxe is a thriving hub. During my countless hours there over the past decade and a half, every artist’s station has consistently been occupied, with clients patiently waiting. Ben Wahhh’s name isn’t just known in Chicago; it’s revered globally within tattoo circles. Artists from Paris, New York, and Los Angeles have sought to work alongside him, considering a stint at Deluxe akin to a musician playing the legendary Riv or Aragon.
A selection of music-inspired tattoos on the author’s arm, showcasing the diverse artistry achievable at a Chicago tattoo shop like Deluxe Tattoo.
Why this acclaim? Ben is undeniably a true artist. Beyond that, he’s a perfectionist, deeply invested in every piece of ink applied within his shop. He even pushes for touch-ups on my own tattoos, driven by his artistic standards even when I’m perfectly content.
Equally important is the atmosphere at Deluxe. Ben and his team are endlessly interesting and passionate individuals. Every visit leaves me with a curated list of books, films, music, and art to explore, sparked by conversations with the artists and the shop’s always-stellar soundtrack. (The shop rule: first artist in sets the day’s audio, until Ben’s refined taste intervenes, which is rare).
Leaving Deluxe, I always feel inspired – by the new art, certainly, but also by the sense of community. It’s a welcoming space, never making anyone feel out of place, regardless of their “coolness” factor (and I assure you, I’m far from the coolest).
This positive energy isn’t just post-tattoo endorphins. It’s a lasting feeling, a sentiment those without tattoos may not fully grasp. Yes, tattoos are a form of self-expression, a statement to the world. But that’s just the surface.
For me, tattoos are deeply personal reminders of my values, a visual journal of my life’s journey. Each morning, seeing these images is a welcome jolt, a motivation as powerful as my first coffee. They offer a constant source of inspiration throughout the day.
So, thank you, Ben, from the bottom of my heart. Happy 20th anniversary, Deluxe Tattoo! Here’s to many more years of exceptional Chicago tattoo artistry. And know that for no one else would I venture into T.M.I. territory to share your incredible work. (Because, truly, words are insufficient until you witness the art firsthand).
(Photos by Carmel Carrillo-DeRogatis; PhotoShop adjustments by the author.)
My left arm, part one:
When asked – in classrooms, at concerts, even in grocery lines – about my favorite albums, showing is simpler than explaining. But it’s deeper than just listing favorites. Each tattoo represents music, people, or experiences holding profound personal meaning, reasons for living. This section includes Wire’s Pink Flag (1), The Flaming Lips’ Transmissions from the Satellite Heart (2), Ben’s Savages logo (3), Hüsker Dü symbol (4), and a Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators motif with Ben’s extensions.
My left arm, part two:
Showcasing the author’s left arm tattoos, featuring iconic album art and symbols, a testament to custom tattoos available in Chicago.
The wave from Ride’s Nowhere (1); Can’s Tago Mago (2); Wyndham Lewis’s Vorticist energy cone (3); and Ben’s take on Brian Eno’s Another Green World (4).
My left arm, part three:
A closer look at the author’s music-themed sleeve, highlighting the intricate detail and personal storytelling possible with Chicago tattoo artists.
Nirvana’s In Utero anatomy dummy (1) (the most painful one, ironically) and Andy Warhol’s Velvet Underground banana (2). Barely visible: The Feelies logo, for the legendary art-punks and lifelong friends.
My right arm, part one:
The author’s right arm sleeve, demonstrating cover-up tattoo artistry and personalized designs available at top Chicago tattoo studios.
Covering an unwanted tattoo, Ben created a music-love declaration incorporating “Mel” (for two significant women); Pink Floyd’s Animals (2); the Rolling Stones tongue (3), referencing a Beatles/Stones book co-authored by the writer; and Lester Bangs from “Let It Blurt” (4).
My right arm, part two:
Detailed imagery of the author’s right arm tattoos, showcasing the diverse styles and artistic capabilities of Chicago tattoo artists.
Funkadelic’s Maggot Brain (1); the Ramones logo (2); Neu! album logos (3); and De La Soul’s 3 Feet High and Rising daisies (4), freehand-added by Ben.
My right arm, part three:
The completed right arm sleeve, showcasing a blend of iconic imagery and personal touches achievable at a premier Chicago tattoo shop.
The Beatles’ Revolver (1); Napoleon’s Imperial Guard crest (2); and the Public Enemy logo (3).
Deluxe Tattoo, located at 1461 W. Irving Park, Chicago, IL, is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. with exclusive merchandise, food from Reggie’s and Dark Matter Coffee, and special $100 tattoo designs from each artist, available first-come, first-served for one day only. Click here for more anniversary details.
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