Sam
Sam’s tattooing journey began in Palmerston North in 2007 and later transitioned to the sunny Hawke’s Bay in 2010. After gaining experience in several street shops, Sam realized that the bustling environment wasn’t suited to her style, prompting her to establish El Vardo Tattoo in the serene Tuki Tuki Valley.
Her tattoo artistry is characterized by an organic and ornamental style, primarily utilizing black and grey tones. Sam draws inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including textiles, traditional patterns, and the beauty of nature.
Over the years, Sam has cultivated remarkable relationships with her clients, leading to extensive full-body tattoo projects and intricate large-scale pieces that encompass legs, arms, and torsos.
With nearly two decades of tattooing experience, complemented by numerous international tattoo trips and conventions, Sam is deeply passionate about her craft. She is eager to connect with new individuals, forge lasting friendships, and create art that endures a lifetime.
Zac
Zac Bridgeman. 26-year-old tattoo artist with a passion for creating. Growing up, art was always a part of Zac’s life, but it wasn’t until he discovered hip-hop culture as a teenager that he found his true calling.
Immersing himself in street art and graffiti, he honed his skills and developed a unique style that blends raw energy with meticulous precision.
With nearly three years of professional tattooing experience under his belt, Zac has refined his focus to specialize in realism and lettering. When he’s not in the studio, Zac can be found working on his cars, exploring the great outdoors, or experimenting with other creative outlets. His love for nature and machines inspires him to push the boundaries of his art With a keen eye for detail and a passion for innovation,
Zac is always looking to take his art to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a realistic portrait, custom lettering, or a unique design that blends his diverse influences, Zac is the artist to trust.
Tread
Tread Well is an artist based in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, with over seven years of experience and a background in graphic design.
He focuses his practice on the bold and timeless style of Western Traditional tattooing, drawing inspiration from the classic sailor designs of the early 1900s, characterized by heavy black outlines and limited palettes.
Creating bold and striking designs that stand the test of time is always Tread’s goal. He enjoys working on large-scale projects such as torsos, back pieces, and traditional sleeve layouts, as well as one-shot flash classics.
Whether the job is big or small, Tread is grateful to make his mark and be a part of this beautiful industry.
Braedan
Braedan’s tattooing career began in 2019, apprenticing under Sam Carter at El Vardo tattoo. He has happily remained here ever since.
Braedan’s tattoo style has always remained hard to pin down, being somewhere between American and European traditional. He draws inspiration from a diverse range of concepts unrelated to tattooing, this results in an abundance of flash being updated weekly with varying themes and topics.
Over the past six years, he has learned to tattoo with proficiency in many styles. These range from large scale blackouts to the smallest of fine line designs. Braedan is always happy to work closely with clients in producing their ideas into art, no matter the size or style.
Braedan is very grateful to be tattooing as a career. With a large assortment of flash to choose from and an enthusiasm for all styles, his books are always open and he’s eager to discuss your ideas.