When it comes to modern-day tattoo studios, the words eclectic, tranquil and personable do not usually come to mind. However, at The Raw Canvas Custom Tattoo Studio and Art Gallery, anyone who walks in is immediately filled with a sense of security and welcome.

The tattoo studio itself is a very open and welcoming space consisting of floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto Grand Junction’s Main Street and an abundance of artwork created by local artists hanging on the walls. Brick walls and neutral colors enhance the warm and welcoming feel, while leather sectionals and bar stools fill the space.

The studio consists of three prominent tattoo artists, all of which are very open, amiable and have developed their own style of tattooing. The highly-acclaimed tattoo studio is arguably the best shop that the Western Slope has to offer. Owner and artist Justin Nordine is known for his unique style of tattooing that can best be described as a combination of abstract artwork and watercolor. Nordine is known for his utter creativity and techniques involving colored, detailed and completely unique tattoos.

I recently received a tattoo from Justin Nordine involving two blue orchids and the phrase, “Everything was beautiful, and nothing hurt,” from author Kurt Vonnegut’s novel Slaughterhouse-Five. Nordine was very professional and conscientious about what it is that I wanted while adding his own personal style to the piece, resulting in an incredibly beautiful and abstract work of art.

Along with being a well-renowned tattoo studio, The Raw Canvas also features an art gallery and a local photography studio by the name of La Tee Da Photography. The Raw Canvas features art gallery exhibits the first Friday of every month of the year as well as local musicians and locally-made wine.
The Raw Canvas is extremely conscientious of a clean and sterile environment. The shop is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until closing time around 6 p.m. Appointments are highly recommended to be scheduled months in advance due to the popularity of the studio and the artists. You can contact The Raw Canvas at (970)-985-9649, http://www.therawcanvas.net, their Facebook page, or by going into the shop located at 507 Main Street.