Photograph by Ben Rollins
In an industry known for attitude, illustrator Drew Huggins is challenging the status quo. His enthusiasm for new techniques and an impressive variety of original images keep this self-taught artist in high demand.
Neighborhood West End
Self-taught I was getting tattooed frequently and started drawing my own. I bought equipment online and began tattooing myself. It just turned into a business from there.
Where to find him Toki Tattoo, McDonough Boulevard
What sets him apart I only tattoo my original designs. Clients can pick from a catalog of my work. The industry in Atlanta is a pretty traditional scene dominated by older white men. Around the country, more private spaces are opening for people outside of the establishment group. This trend is more inclusive, and what I offer is less stressful and easier to access. As long as you’re being sanitary and sterile, this environment allows you to work how you want and experiment.
Uniform High-waisted, baggy black jeans, crop top, combat boots.
Anime muses Bulma from Dragon Ball Z, Inuyasha, and Botan from Yu Yu Hakusho
Shopping Rag-O-Rama for vintage and thrift finds. I also love going to Athens to shop. Atomic is a favorite.
Photograph by Ben Rollins
Inspired by [Japanese illustrator] Hajime Sorayama, Alien and other sci-fi movies, futuristic styling
On the horizon Large-scale reproductions of my illustrations and embroidered fashion pieces
This article appears in our March 2020 issue.
