True Love Art Gallery

This is my first time writing a review on Unilocal.I usually just ghost around on here and use it for my personal gain. But after my amazing experience at True Love I decided to bite the bullet.
The tattoo I had in mind was in my opinion not an easy tattoo to do. It combined portraiture of not only a human and an animal, geometric design elements and needed to be solely grey. I couldn’t find anything even remotely close to what I wanted on the Internet. I was stumped on where to go. I am literally telling you it had never been done before, because it had a very specific portrait involved but yet had custom stylistic elements.
Everyone I showed my concept to, reiterated how careful I needed to be with this piece, because of the intricacies involved. Which scared me really bad, not gonna lie.
After researching artists for months and even having several pretty skilled artists tell me they didn’t feel comfortable doing it. I finally stumbled upon true love. I could picture ANY of the artists at the gallery being fully equipped to create the piece, which from my research isn’t always true with all shops. There are one or two standouts but not the entire roster!
So I called and explained the concept hoping they could match me up with the best artist for the job. She asked me if anyone’s work in particular spoke to me, which I couldn’t really answer, cause I loved everyone’s portfolio. Tura was unbelievably helpful, had me email my inspirations and got back to me shortly after with an artist for my piece. Jason Middelton.
When I got there everyone was so unbelievably nice, I am always self conscious going into shops because as a 100 pound Asian girl with no visible tattoos I don’t fit the mold. I’d even had some pretty horrible experiences and actually didn’t do some tattoos I wanted because it reminded me of what a dick the artist had been. At true on the other hand my piece was thought out even from conception. Apparently my concept was the talk of the shop before booking it, while the artists took the time to discuss it before Tura informed me Jason would love to do it! That made me feel even more touched that my piece was thought out to the point of the freaking artists discussing it, so it would come out perfect. There are no pissing matches at this shop, they genuinely want you to have the piece you want because everyone is so skilled anyone could do it, its just figuring out whose the best match.
I met Jason and he was so sweet, my excitement for the piece was growing by the second. And even though I sheepishly explained the look and feel I envisioned, he never once made me feel dumb or less than, just genuinely interested in creating my dream piece.
He had someone reschedule right before I got in so I was able to book my tattoo 5 days after my consult even though Jason books out over a month in advance. Feeling this was serendipity that I had been so lucky to have such a badass artist be able to fit me in so soon, I eagerly put down my deposit.
On the day of my tattoo I walked in and Jason had a few rough mockups for me. I picked out the mockups which direction I was feeling. He told me he would keep tweaking and perfecting it until it was exactly what I wanted, no matter how long. An hour or so later he emerged with a sketch that was so much better than I imagined! Beautifully free handed and totally custom. I had actually dumbed down my concept a bit cause I was frightened of the portraits I see where a newborn baby literally looks like it’s melting. And as he was making sketches I kept making concessions because I didn’t want to be a pain. He ignored me and stuck with my original concept because he knew he could do it no compromises. I didn’t have to change my concept one bit even though I tried to for fear of my type A personality being disappointed.
But he freaking killed it. His art work was not only exactly what I wanted but better! He even put in a symbol from an anecdote I told him about my inspiration, which I didn’t specify, but it was so thoughtful and is my favorite part of the piece.
I got in the chair and 5 or so hours of one part amazing conversation and two parts therapy I was done. Every time we took a break I was so stoked at how the piece was coming to life. He even laughed at my totally inappropriate jokes, which I only make when I feel completely at ease. I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better experience, I would get my whole body tattooed by Jason just to talk. If you’re reading this Jason, if you want to be my best friend I’m accepting applications.
Every part of this process was amazing from Tura’s excellent customer service to Jason’s freaking awesome everything.
Everyone I’ve shown Ioves It!
But most importantly me, this tattoo was a symbol of my commitment to loving myself and always remembering who I am. Never compromising who I am whether it be a tattoo or otherwise. True Love brought that to life and I am truly grateful; pun intended

Great art gallery and ink shop. Traditional tattoo studio with some amazing artists in that medium, and then you have the rotating art exhibits on the walls. Some edgy, some strange, some that stop you in your tracks, and all worth the look. Be sure to ask the staff about the pieces on the wall and in the portfolios. You won’t be disappointed.

«What’s going on tonight?»
«Nothing. I don’t have anything planned. Food, I am hungry.»
«Food for sure. Hey, maybe I can get a tattoo tonight…»
Last minute decisions are my specialty, even when it comes to a new tattoo. A friend who had gotten some work done at this shop recommended that we stop in to see if they had any availability. I certainly didn’t have my hopes up because it was later in the evening but walking into a tattoo shop in itself is a good time, so it was a win-​win for me regardless.
George was getting ready to pack up his things and attend a meeting he had scheduled for that evening. I explained to him what I was wanting and that I understood that he had plans and I appreciated his time for the chat. It must’ve been my lucky day because George started setting up his station for me, missing his appointment!
I don’t think I have ever felt more comfortable getting a tattoo before. The shop had a great feel to it, George had some soft and sweet hands, and I felt totally welcome. I honestly can’t wait until I have more work done here — It’s called True Love for a reason y’all.

Oh yeeeeeaaaahhhhhh booooiiiiiii
Yes, that *may* have been a Flavor Flav imitation. It has nothing to do with this place other than that’s the immediate thought that runs through my head.
This place is fantastic. It’s an art gallery, it’s a tattoo shop, it’s a. it’s just awesome.
I have been for the art walk openings and the art isn’t just good, it’s affordable and super carefully curated. You absolutely will love something they chose for the show or you’re just dumb.
The tattoo vibe is laid back, kid friendly (WHA?) and more of a place that you’d want to hang out than you’d expect for a tattoo shop known for it’s solid work and really fantastic stable of artists.
I personally went to see Battershell because her line work is On.Point. and got a matching tattoo with my son. Yeah, I’m cool like that.
I would say that it’s about taste and style, all the artists are fantastic but best of all it’s not fussy, you don’t feel pressured nor out of place even if you’re not a ‘tattoo person’ so go visit and see for yourself, you’ll thank me later and I’ll show you my tattoo.

I saw Thomas’ work online and absolutely fell in love — his linework is incredible, and his skill with patterns is obvious. I was happy to learn, then, that he was located in Seattle; finally, a tattoo I wouldn’t have to travel for!
After an initial consult I put down a deposit and he started work on my design. We just had our first session and he was a perfectionist — lining up everything just-​so, critically examining his work, adding extra details, etc — and I’m looking forward to all of our future sessions!

If you’re looking for a friendly artist with EXCEPTIONAL skills — LOOK NO FURTHER!!!
Let me start by saying: I am not artistic and I can barely write my name legibly. So, when I decided to take the plunge and get a whole sleeve done on my arm, I knew I had to find an artist I could trust; someone who would listen to what I wanted and translate that into art — George Long was just that artist.
I went in with pictures and clippings of what I had in mind for the tattoo and George managed to create a piece that was fitting, as well as eye-​catching. I am often out and about in Seattle and people will ask me if the work was done by George Long — they actually ask if it was from him BY NAME. That’s the level of quality work I’m talking about.
From the vivid colors to the crisp detail of the lines, I’m still to this day excited to look at it. It’s clean, beautiful work. George is gentle and calm and really makes you feel at ease.
I am already planning a sleeve for my other arm as well as a few other soon-​to-​be masterpieces.
Please, spend your money at True Love Art Gallery! You will most certainly not be disappointed.

True Love has got to be one of the more exceptional places to get some brilliant artwork done by some truly genuine people. (I know. that sounds like a big opener but it’s true!) I choose the artists who I get to work with very carefully as it’s important to me to have someone who’s not only talented but who *I* feel is also an all around good person with good energy. After all, you’re going to be sitting with this person for hours and leave with their work on your skin. I’d rather be able to rave about that person than have to say it’s good work but the guy was a jerk or something.
True Love Art Gallery is admittedly only the second studio where I’ve gotten work but I wouldn’t go anywhere else either. Whenever I would walk into a new studio looking for an artist, I was always self-​conscious, feeling awkward and like one of the un-​cool kids. There has never been any of the attitude or posturing at True Love that I’ve seen or heard about with other studios. Everyone has always been really friendly, welcoming and casual. People often stop by just to say hi and hang out for a few which I think is cool. It’s a really friendly environment.
I’ve sat with George Long for what must be dozens of hours by now and there will be many more. I think his work is amazing and he’s always had great solutions to my design problems while never making me awkward. I can’t recommend him highly enough.
As far as the gallery portion of the business, being able to walk into the space and seeing an ever-​changing display of art is awesome. There’s always something new to see, and if you’re smart… you can catch the openings during Seattle Thursday Art Walks too, listen to cool DJs and meet some cool people.
Go there and come away being even more fabulous and awesome than you already are.

I am still as in love with this place as I was the first time I stepped inside.
True Love Art Gallery is not just a tattoo shop or an art gallery, it is the axis of which community can gather and grow. TLAG is a welcoming and inviting atmosphere where you can walk in and feel welcomed. TLAG is currently made up of four stellar tattoo artists and two apprentices.
My most recent tattoo was done by one of True Love’s tattoo apprentices, Stephanie Battershell. I am 100% over the moon about my entire experience! (I might be a little biased because she’s my favorite human — but I think you would agree that she’s amazing) When you’re getting tattooed by Stephanie you don’t feel like you’re getting tattooed by an apprentice, she’s professional, always makes sure that you’re happy about the design, size, and placement, and she isn’t heavy handed!
Go get a tattoo, stop in for art walk (second Thursday of every month), or just say hello.
I love True Love, you’re gonna love True Love. I mean really, who doesn’t love True Love?!

I am smitten with this tattoo shop/​art gallery!
George Long designed and tattooed two of my favorite tattoos. I am Mexican and I wanted sugar skulls that had characteristics of my mom’s parents. My grandpa always had a long curly mustache and my grandma always had two long braids. The tattoos came out perfect! I could not have been happier! The colors popped! I am constantly getting people complimenting my tattoos and asking to take pictures of them.
This gallery is always part of the second Thursday Capitol Hill art walk. I have been lucky enough to be part of some art shows. Always a great crowd and atmosphere. I even set up a table with merch, handmade coffee sleeves, felt brooches, small paintings and cupcakes. Every time I come here, you get the sense of the community and True Love Art Gallery family. Always great to see George, Boris and Stephanie!
They are big supporters of the local Seattle artist. Some of my favorite local artist, Crystal Barbre, EGO, Joe Vollan, Yvette Endrijautski and Carlos Aguilar have all been part of previous shows.
I miss this place since, we moved to NY.

I’ve put this off far too long. After harassing Stephanie half a dozen times to touch up my less than perfect, half faded tattoo, I have fully given up on her getting back to me. I received said tattoo about a year ago, and she even said herself (less than two weeks after it was done) that she needed to touch it up. It saddens me to write this because I think True Love Art Gallery has a lot of potential. But, as long as Stephanie is tattooing there, there are bound to be disappointments. Thanks, but no thanks.
Someone at the shop kindly replied to my review (apologizing for the length of time that had passed), and after having spoken to the owner, offered to touch up my less than desirable tattoo. Although I had already had another artist touch it up, I’m impressed by how the shop handles my complaint. I would definitely consider seeing another, more experienced artist at the shop and would recommend to a friend.

I just got a Tattoo from George Long — It is amazing he is one on the nicest men around, he is incredibly talented Artist, he picked up on what I like and what I wanted just from our conversation, he drew it up and it really rocks, I will post a picture when it heals and the touch ups are done, the shop is very clean and very well maintained ,
Thank you so much for every thing, and I am so looking forward in working with you in the future, with all my ideas,
Rodney R Barney

I have wanted a tattoo for much of my life and have held back for multiple reasons. However, once I felt at home with my decision, I did my research and was told that True Love and George Long would be a great match for me. True Love was clean, inspiring and filled with a supportive family vibe. Working with and meeting George was an absolute pleasure. We had a great time with the design and I felt as though I was exploring with a freind. The tattoo didn’t hurt and I actually enjoyed the process and interesting discussions. I left completely shocked that I had so much fun, felt so at ease, taken care of and had no regrets. In a relaxed, Yoda/​George fashion, he helped me invent a design that would suit me. I cannot give these folks and George enough praise. Surrounded by art, family and a clean, proffessional environment… how could True Love and George Long be anything but one of the very best in Seattle. I feel blessed to have found them both!
Janice W
First Tattoo

I can’t begin to explain how impressed I am with George. I wanted a custom designed tattoo to remember my parents by. I had some ideas and gave them to George. the design he came up with was perfect. the tattoo itself is flawless. the lines are perfect as well as the shading. I highly recommend George and True Love Tattoo as the #1 place to go.

I happen to think George Long is the BEST! His artwork is amazing and he has a great knack for creating exactly what you want. As an added bonus he is a very sweet man that I thoroughly enjoy visiting with while I get tattooed.

I’m so in love with George Long’s work that I’ll follow him wherever he goes. I refer countless people to him even if I know it makes it that much more painful (pun totally intended) for me to get time with him, because he and his work are both simply amazing.
The shop is clean and the vibe is mellow. George’s been working on me for years, but I recently went to have work done at True Love for the first time. This involved me hanging out in my underwear for several hours. I don’t know Cosmo, but he was extremely professional and asked George and I if we wanted him to shut the curtains between their studios once he started working with a client. I didn’t really care one way or the other, but it was really nice to be asked if I did.
I can’t recommend the shop highly enough. The people that work here are talented and kind with each other just as much as with their customers. Bonus is the art installations, which change frequently, are just as amazing as the work that comes out of this shop.
One thing you should absolutely plan ahead for is parking. But you know going to Capitol Hill you are facing that, right? Leave early so you can spend some time finding a good spot until the lot across the street wises up and accepts cards or mobile payment methods, or the lot up the block decides to stay open past 6pm.
Love, love, LOVE True Love. End of story.

OK here is the deal.
THIS PLACE IS AWESOME!
I have been looking for some talented artists that could see my vision but then add their style into my tattoo vision. Me and my wife have now found that place.
My wife goes to see George and they click so well, every tattoo she gets she is ready for another the next day.
I go and see Cosmo and he has a great ability for color and making my tattoos look realistic. He gets the job done and does it very well. He’s awesome.
The rest of the staff are amazing they are super friendly, which is usually not the case for getting ink done.
Stop in sometime and check out the art and meet them!
Oh and they are attached to a really cool salon.

George has done all of my tattoo’s but 2 out of 24 pieces. Friendly and knowledgeable and pretty gently with a needle.
And the unique part of the shop is the Art Gallery aspect. I love it. This place screams Local, Seattle and Art.
And george is a down to earth honest good guy. My first tattoo i sat and played N-​64 while he prepped the work on the fly and the other half was idol conversation about Art, Animé and a few other random topics.
It’s a very unique shop with some damn good artists and ideas.
I highly recommend the shop to any one new to ink or old.

George Long is the Best tattoo artist I know. Ive been seeing him for years and his work is exceptional. Along with a super clean, friendly environment, they always have a rotation of art. They have Art opening once a month and its always a great time! Check them out!