Mr. Chad James, @chadjame5, is what one might describe as the atypical tattoo guy. With a passion for sports that involve inflated balls and those with stitches, Chad always looks like he’s on his way to the ball park. It’s not just the way he looks, it’s that this guy is the ultimate sports fan!

Chad and his wife, Josielyn, have a son named Brooklyn (as in Dodgers) who is on his way to becoming a college basketball star! Mr. James’ entire summer is dedicated to shuttling Brooklyn around to basketball tournaments all over the west in hopes of getting a scholarship. We wish him the best of luck. Surely all that hard work will pay off.

Like all of the artists here at Studio 21 Tattoo, Chad recognized his interest in art at an early age. In the fourth grade he won a Lake Erie art contest back in Columbus, Ohio. That gave him the confidence to continue drawing and painting.

Much of Chad’s art was influenced by eighties Saturday morning cartoons. He loved watching Johnny Quest, Thunder the Barbarian and Scooby Doo. At some point he became fascinated with drawing his shoes. He illustrated his shoes like a mad man! Must have been great training because this dude can really draw.

Like many artistic eighties youth, Chad became enamored with graffiti art. In high school he specialized in sports related graffiti. He was so inspired he decided to pursue a career in the arts. Chad attended Columbus College of the Arts in the early nineties where he aspired to have a career with Disney or Pixar.

Eighteen years ago Mr. James decided to take up a career in tattooing. He tattooed in Ohio before relocating to Las Vegas. After a few years of working in a shop on the fabulous Las Vegas Strip he was offered the opportunity to join the team here at Studio 21. We’re all glad he did! His irresistible personality and good looks make him a perfect fit! 

A versatile tattooer always stays busy in Las Vegas if he is willing to work hard at it. Chad says “I like to work” which is another reason we believe he’s found the right environment here. His “New School” art style is apparent in the numerous paintings he has on display here in the studio. But wait, there’s more! Chad can proficiently execute traditional style, portraits (black/grey and color) and pretty much anything you bring him. A well rounded, hard working artist is what you will find in Chad James. A no bullshit, get ‘er done kinda guy. That’s our man Chad.

To view more of Chad’s artwork visit https://www.etsy.com/shop/rocket5art/

To check out Chad’s tattoo portfolio https://studio21tattoo.com/artists/chad-james-tattoos/

Charlie Spencer

Co-Owner/Tattoo Artist

Studio 21 Tattoo Gallery, Inc.