About Crispin
Crispin James is a self-taught tattoo artist with over two decades of experience, renowned for his precision, intricate fineline work, script, and calligraffiti lettering styles.
His journey into tattooing began in early 2002 at the age of 15, driven by an intense passion for art and self-expression.
As a kid, Crispin loved visiting the bookstore to flip through Juxtapoz and Lowrider Arte magazines, getting lost in the West Coast art, the flow of the lettering. The way Mister Cartoon’s work on Cypress Hill album covers captivated him, and he studied every detail, tracing the lines in his mind to understand the movement.
By 15, he was so obsessed with the craft that he built his first tattoo machine from scratch, spending hours studying Boog’s flash sheets and the effortless flow of his cursive. Artists like OG Abel and DYSE One’s raw style pushed him forward, and in his twenties, he began studying calligraphy and ornamentals, eventually diving into calligraffiti, influenced by artists in Germany, such as TheosOne. Over time, he developed his own voice, blending elements from various styles and infusing his work with the storytelling power of words.
At 18, Crispin sought out traditional apprenticeships, attempting two—one in his hometown and another in Phoenix, AZ.
However, he quickly realized that the environments and teaching methods didn’t align with his values, and he was unable to find a comfortable place to grow. Then moving back to Bakersfield, Crispin chose to continue honing his craft independently, refining his skills through dedication and self-teaching.
At 22, he opened his first tattoo studio, later relocating it to a larger location at 23. For over a decade, he built a reputation for exceptional work and an innovative atmosphere.
However, after experiencing immense personal loss, Crispin made the difficult decision to close his studio at 34.
Stepping away from tattooing for a couple of years, he explored digital art—designing logos, building websites, painting, marketing, and other business ventures—allowing him to reconnect with his creativity and refine his artistic approach.
Now, Crispin has returned stronger than ever, tattooing in a private studio in Bakersfield, CA while traveling to Virginia Beach, VA monthly.
His talent has been recognized throughout his career, earning him eight awards for Best Lettering while competing in tattoo expos across California and Oregon.
Tattooing, for Crispin, has never been about following trends—it’s always been about storytelling. He believes in the weight a single word can carry when written with intention. Whether it’s a name, a phrase, or a piece marking a significant turning point in someone's life, his work becomes a part of their personal history.
He specializes in black and grey realism, blending it with abstract textures, brush-style strokes, and custom lettering. His designs pull from everything he’s absorbed over the years—stacking different lettering styles and weaving in elements like roses, skulls, and themes that range from philosophy to mythology.
Beyond tattooing, Crispin is also a Certified Life Coach and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) practitioner, offering mentorship for young tattoo artists as well as Mindset Coaching. He is passionate about guiding up-and-coming tattooers, helping them refine their technique, develop a strong business foundation, and cultivate the right mindset for long-term success.
Outside of his professional life, Crispin finds joy and balance with his best friend and wife, along with their two little girls.
His mission is to make a lasting impact on everyone who sits in his chair or crosses his path, believing that "the Struggle is a Privilege." His journey has shaped him, and he embraces every challenge as an opportunity to grow.
Through his art, he strives to connect deeply with his clients, sharing his story and creative vision with every piece he creates.
