I'm a bit of a tattoo snob... not everyone will agree with my likes or dislikes for sure. I've seen the work of most of the artists in KC. I use nationally recognized tattoo artists to compare the various tattooing styles to. This is how I rate my tattoos and whether I think an artist is just an artist, or a master of his/her craft.
There are two guys at Surreal tattoo that I have familiarized myself with. Tyler Moody and Rick James (yeah that really is his name, and who doesn't want a tattoo by Rick James?)
Both of these guys, without a doubt, are among the best in the KC area. I'm always looking for an artist who creates consistently amazing tattoos. Stuff that you wouldn't be surprised to find in a magazine... or even say to yourself... WHOA, that SHOULD be in a magazine. And you may know, every once in a while you see a guy crank out a crazy good tattoo. But then you look at his other stuff and it just doesn't meet the same caliber.
These two guys are not "one and done' artists. Their tattoos are real deal art. Tyler has tattooed my wife and the outcome is beautiful. I will refrain from posting it as it is personal (nothing dirty, get your mind out of the gutter!) Man he knocked it out of the ballpark! The colors, the custom job. it is just spot on, really probably better than what we were thinking.
And in a few days Rick is getting ready to do one of my dream tattoos with the Arch Angel Michael from Revelation 20. I never really thought I would find a guy that I think does good enough work to make this tattoo a reality here in KC. I thought I would have to go abroad. I think Rick has what it takes though. If you are looking for some serious ink slinging skill, come check these guys out.
Also, I am not saying the other folks at Surreal are bad. I just haven't studied their work as much. It's always good conversation in there too. Real laid back. They will keep it clean if you ask. This is a top notch parlor/studio here in KC. Don't overlook these guys.