I began tattooing in early 2001.  In the beginning, I worked to create a solid foundation from which I could build on.  Starting in an average street shop where flash was a staple; I took the time to focus on developing my technical skills.  After realizing there was so much more to tattooing, tattooers and tattoo shops, I decided to move on.  Different obstacles led to other opportunities, and on February 14^th, 2003, I opened the doors of Graceland Tattoo, a 400 square foot labor of love.  Over the next several years I fine-tuned my tattooing, as well as my studio space.     

I prefer to work in the classic, traditional American style.  I like bold outlines and strong shading. However, as a tattooer I put a lot of effort into being well rounded.  It’s important to me that you leave proud of your new tattoo and happy with your decision to work with me.  Whether it’s a smaller walk-in tattoo or a more in-depth piece, I approach each project with the respect it deserves.  I take pride in my work, I enjoy the time spent with my clients, and I’m thankful to be doing what I love - day in and day out. 

I like to do good, clean tattoos.  I like my tattoos to look like tattoos, to have a weight and a presence to them.  I want them to stand the test of time, and I want the time you spend with me, getting tattooed, to be a good experience.

I’m a pretty simple person.  Above all, I am a family man.  I love my craft and I’m fortunate to be here making art.

Graceland Tattoo from Dave Waldron on Vimeo.

I was born and raised in Montevideo, Uruguay; As a kid , i spent most of my time drawing cartoons, doing crafts and painting with my grandmother and playing sports, Rugby in particular, where i achieved the milestone of briefly playing for my National Rugby Team at the age of 18.

I have always been artistically inclined, but it wasn't until my sport carrier  was over , that i decided to make tattooing my profession. I never had a traditional tattoo apprenticeship so i consider my self  to be a self taught artist.

In 2000 i moved to NY opening a new chapter in my life, i have been working in the Hudson Valley area since 2002, working in many local shops and eventually, partially owning DV8 and opening Hellhound Ink in 2005.

I worked along many good artist including Paul Martinez which i consider my mentor and good friend.

In 2007 i decided to join Graceland Tattoo, where i made a home until this day.

When it comes to tattooing, I'm skilled on every tattoo style to a high level, which allows me to approach every proyect with a different view each and every time.

I work with my clients to understand and meet their goals, often surpassing their expectations, aiming to make each and every piece as unique and personal as possible.

Most of my tattoos are "Freehand" ( drawn directly onto the skin), which allows for a better flow and fit to the body, i found this  to be the best way to let my artistic abilities to come out and make thats piece as unique and spontaneous as i can.

My inspiration comes from all aspects of life, nature been my biggest muse.

I have two beautiful kids, a girlfriend and a supportive family, this is what drives me to be a better artist, father and a better human been overall.

Thank you

Diego