Rising Stars: Meet Jake Rieb

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Rieb.

Hi Jake, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started tattooing when I was 19 (2015) in Topeka, Kansas. I have always had a fascination with tattoos growing up, as my parents and relatives had a few. I struggled paying attention in school and would end up drawing all over my notes and homework instead of doing my work. After I graduated, I was unsure of what I wanted to do and took some general classes at a community college and quickly decided I no longer wanted to follow the typical route. I then made the decision that I was going to get an apprenticeship to become a tattooer. Over the years, I have done seminars with some of the best tattooers in America, as well as traveled to get tattooed by very well-known artists to branch out my knowledge and experience. Fortunately, I have had plenty of clients over the years that have trusted me to do experimenting with styles and techniques that have developed into my style today.

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?
The process has not been entirely smooth, as everything one does will have obstacles. The first few years, I struggled with confidence in my work as I am very nit-picky about everything I do.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I typically work with black and grey and whip shaded imagery. Geometric or ornamental work has been something that has stood out when it comes to my tattoos. I try to make all tattoos I do very readable from a distance but still hold an acceptable amount of detail without overdoing it.

What makes me most proud is when I can go beyond my client’s expectations of what they wanted. Not only is the client happy, but they will refer more people to you to be able to create more awesome work.

What were you like growing up?
I was a pretty loud mouthed skater kid. Definitely didn’t know when to shut up and had no filter. I constantly was skating when I wasn’t in school or in various sports. Always running around town getting into something. I was always trying to do something and hated being at home all the time… it’s funny cause I am nowhere near the same now.

Pricing:

• I charge $160/hour for most projects

Contact Info:

• Email: bdctattoo@gmail.com
• Website: bdctattoo.com
• Instagram: @JakeRiebTattoos
• Facebook: Jake Rieb Tattoos