We had the good fortune of connecting with Max Councill and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Max, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
I feel a lot of people are very unaware to the amount of work that goes into tattooing, besides just tattooing it’s self. When I have a appointment coming up, I will have a consult, a study, reference photos and actual hours of drawing before the first appointment. I feel that some clients think that we have all of these designs just ready to go, and we just pick them from the Internet and boom it’s ready. Not realizing how much work actually goes into each tattoo. There are many nights that I am up working on an appointment from 7pm-1am trying to get a design right. Then on top of getting a design ready and dialed in, we have to talk to our other clients about their appointments and booking appointments. It’s a 24/7 job for sure!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have always been into art in some form or another. I really started focusing on art more seriously during school when I got really into graffiti. I was a graffiti artist for around 10 years. I traveled all over and was fully engulfed in the world. I have met so many amazing people and have even apart of so many huge projects, some that can’t be mentioned. I did a few years in collage towards a degree in graphic design. While I was in collage I met my mentor through graffiti. After about a few months I dropped out and jumped head first into the tattoo world. I have a VERY traditional apprenticeship and learned lots about honor and respect for the craft. It was very hard but I am thankful for what I learned. A lot of kids these days never learn about the history or even have respect for the craft.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Haha I have done this too many times then I can count. I think a happy mix of outdoor fun and food and drinks is the best combo. I usually start with a Dutch bros coffee then a cruise around gold camp road through the tunnels. Such a easy cruise with some of the best views around. For food I really enjoy cantina or Amanda Fonda along the river, town house in manitou is always great for people watching also. For drinks and fun I always end up at nova and Tony’s. If I have a chance I always push driving up pikes peak. I have watched that race ever since I was a child. The history is amazing and the views aren’t too bad either 😉 .

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I 100% have to give thanks to my friends and amazing shop team! Setting up the shop took weeks and I never could’ve done it with out so much help From Brie Rodriguez. She helped me MANY late nights, panting and getting everything set up. Also definitely have to give the crew a huge shout out. I am truly blessed to work with a group of talented and helpful people. I own the shop but definitely feel like a co worker, we are team every day. They are all so amazing and heart of gold would never be what it is with out them.

Instagram: @councillink @heartofgold719

Facebook: Max councill @councillink @heartofgold

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