Meet Jimmy Kuder III of Lees Summit

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jimmy Kuder III.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started tattooing in the year 2000. It’s hard to believe it’s been that long already. There really weren’t that many tattooers in the greater Kansas City back then.
Tattooing has definitely increased in size since then. I’d have to look it up but I’m guessing over 100 shops now. Back then I’m guessing around 10-15.
I’ve gotten to work alongside some really good tattooers over the years. No matter what drama or stress that has happened over the decades I still feel lucky to have been able to do this for so long.
This is definitely a career for self motivated individuals. I’ve seen a lot not make it. These last 25 years haven’t always been easy but I still love tattoos and art.
I have definitely slowed down a little and don’t do as many tattoos a week as I used to, but I’m happy that through my shop I can do other projects and events.
Once a month (4th Fridays) outside my shop and with my car club we host a cruise night(car show). All are invited to bring their vintage cars and hang out. We have music and our local taco truck is there. It’s fun for the whole family. You can find more information about it on social media. Just look up Lees Summit 4th Fridays Cruise Night.
We are also trying to plan more art shows. I love working with other artists and seeing what they can make.
It all comes down to just wanting to make more art and explore what we can do. Whether it’s tattooing or painting or whatever medium I’m in the mood for.
Most of the time I’m in the mood to just talk about tattooing to any other tattooers also. Lots of young tattooers probably don’t want to hear my stories or tattoo theories. But I’m always around and like meeting other tattooers and talking to them. I hope I can be a positive influence in the tattoo world.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is anything ever a smooth road? I definitely didn’t grow up with a silver spoon. You have to work hard and keep looking forward. There are a ton of terrible people in this world. Just step around them and keep going. Find your people group and lift each other up and help each other improve and get where you all want to be.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
These days I’ll do a bunch of different styles of tattooing. I think people know me most for traditional/neotraditional. I also do a bunch of illustrated looking and dotwork tattoos. I like being able to do a bunch of different styles if I need to though. You got to make that money to survive so if you can learn most styles then you will probably last longer in tattooing.
As far as painting I like doing big bold bright stuff. Lowbrow kustom kulture I guess. Monsters and tikis and such. Wherever it takes me when I set down. It’s not like tattooing where I have to do what the client wants. Just make stuff and have fun.
I also do photography. It’s another fun outlet. You can find me on instagram at jkiii_photography. Im always looking for new people to work with and experiment.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Everything is a risk. Getting out of bed is a risk. Staying in bed is a risk.
What do you want with your life?
You never know what you can do until you do it.
I opened my own business. It’s a huge financial risk.
I drive sketchy 100 year old cars. Probably not a risk most people take..
Just figure out who you are and what you want to do and give it a try.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.gloryboundtattoo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmykuderiii?igsh=azNlODl3dzh1dTRq&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/jkiii_photography?igsh=YW9tOHJlNjdjcGMx