Today we’d like to introduce you to Christian Buckingham.
Christian, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been tattooing for over 20 years. I was a finalist on seasons 7 and 9 of paramount’s ink master reality competition and a coach on season 11. I did a formal apprenticeship in 2001 and have traveled the country for many years to learn as much as I can about the art of tattooing.
I own a successful tattoo shop in Richmond Virginia called lucky gypsy as well.
After vacationing in Kissimmee with my wife, we fell in love with Florida and decided to make the move. So, I partnered with my longtime friends David and Brenda brown to open fallen heroes’ tattoos. The shop has an emphasis on quality art and community support.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like anything worthwhile, it’s been a challenge. Tattooing is very competitive and takes years to master. Only now is it becoming socially acceptable and recognized by the public as a legitimate art form. Tattooing has a way of taking over your life and consuming all of your time, so it makes your personal life difficult. Balance is key.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a tattooer that specializes in black and gray tattoos. I’m known mostly for realism and portrait work but I enjoy doing tattoos of almost any kind. I think I’m most proud of developing a recognizable style to my work that stands out in a very saturated and competitive field.
My 3 seasons in ink master definitely helped set me apart. Although I didn’t win, I was a finalist on every season and became recognized all over the world.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important thing I’ve learned by far is that work isn’t everything. Family and love matter more than money or recognition and success ever could. I’m very careful now to balance my personal and professional life.
Contact Info:
- Email: Fl@fallenheroestattoo.com
- Website: fallenheroestattoo.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100050164493800
