The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
CARDINAL INK IS ALL ABOUT THE ART
Aesthetic is key: Tattoo studio and gallery in Great Lakes Mall renders distinctive vibe for clients and passers-by
Cardinal Ink, a new tattoo shop and art gallery in the Great Lakes Mall, presents a low-key, comfortable ambiance for patrons as well as those just wanting to stop in and browse.
Soft lights, darkish walls, sleek surfaces and plenty of open space characterize the 2,000-squarefoot establishment operated by Dustin Kaiser of Mentor.
“Being in the mall I didn’t want to have flash tattoos on the wall. I wanted it to have a little class (since) people spend a lot of money on tattoos,” Kaiser said. “The mall didn’t want that either. They wanted more of an experience.”
In a recent news release, mall General Manager Rob Dascoli stated that “We are thrilled to welcome a talented artist and musician such as Dustin Kaiser to Great Lakes Mall. Cardinal Ink is an exciting addition to our growing portfolio of unique tenants at Great Lakes Mall, furthering the experiences available for guests as we continue to serve as a true lifestyle center for the community.”
Kaiser, 31, opened the shop in early November after spending weeks tearing down walls, painting and reconfiguring the entire space situated near Round 1 Bowling and Entertainment which was formerly used for storage.
“Being in the mall I didn’t want to have flash tattoos on the wall. I wanted it to have a little class...” — Dustin Kaiser, Cardinal Ink establishment operator
“I try to push people away from getting things they’re going to regret. I want to make sure that everybody who goes out of those doors and everything that’s hanging on the walls I’m proud of. It’s important to me.” — Dustin Kaiser, Cardinal Ink establishment operator
Cardinal Ink’s inclusion of artwork available for purchase is another element setting it apart from other tattoo businesses.
Ryan Bassett, Johnny Joo and David Shockey are among local artists with featured works.
Kaiser’s love of art along with a passion for music began early in life. However, when reaching high school he said that it was necessary to choose one on which to focus and decided on the latter option.
After spending several years working as a musician he rediscovered his love of art and added the skill to his repertoire which also includes entertaining as a magician.
In the past he’s performed the music and magic combination at such places as Sapphire Creek Winery and Gardens in Chagrin Falls and Grand River Cellars in Madison.
A few years ago Kaiser was asked to be a feature artist at a tattoo shop in Wickliffe. While there he was offered an apprentice position that he accepted and went on to learn how to tattoo.
Later he worked at several area shops gaining expertise and acquiring various techniques.
“Knowing the fundamentals of art helped,” he said. “Once you get the fundamentals down and you learn how to translate them to other mediums…it
becomes a lot easier.
“A lot of people want to become tattoo artists because they like tattoos and that’s not good. They have to be an artist.”
Although experienced in creating many types of tattoos his favorites on which to work are black and grey realism and portraits.
Kaiser stated that the undesirable stigma tattoos carried long ago has for the most part been erased.
“Back in the day tattoos were linked to gang violence,” he said. “Now you have 80-year-old women getting roses tattooed on their feet for their grandd au g ht er s…ever ybody wants tattoos nowadays.
“I’m booked out for a cou
ple of months.”
The artist hopes that people coming to the mall
aren’t hesitant to stop in to check out his shop.
“It not just about tat
toos, it’s about people,” Kaiser said. “Even if I’m tattooing I’ll still hold a conversation. I want people to come in and see what I’m doing.”
However, those wanting a tattoo must book an appointment in person or via email, cardinal ink collective@gmail.com. Walk-ins are not accepted.
Currently two apprentices are also working at the shop and more artists are planned to be added to the staff.
It’s evident that Kaiser holds high standards for Cardinal Ink and the work taking place.
“I tr y to push people away from getting things they’re going to regret,” he said. “I want to make sure that everybody who goes out of those doors and everything that’ s hanging on the walls I’m proud of. It’s important to me.”