Meet Patrick Shackley | Tattooer, artist, Owner/Operator, Monarch Tattoo Studio

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

Hi Patrick, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
That money and financial security comes and goes. Finding a job/career that is fulfilling, challenging and inspiring will carry you through the lean times and make the struggles much more tolerable.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I started my tattoo apprenticeship in 1995. The industry was much more closed and guarded back then, It was extremely difficult to get your foot in the door. I spent the first 5 or 6 years doing designs off the walls of the studios I worked at. Eventually working my way up to doing fully custom, individual designs for each client. And thats what the majority of my workload is these days, medium-to-large scale, multi-session pieces.

My goal is to provide a one-on-one environment for my clients. Where they can feel relaxed and comfortable. With less of the anxiety and intimidation that can come from walking in to a bigger, noisier, more chaotic studio environment.
I feel that the most successful tattoos come from a collaborative interaction between client and artist. So, I try to make sure that my clients ideas are heard. And I do my best to work with those ideas and create a compositionally solid tattoo that will age well and look great for years to come.

I can’t say, exactly what sets me apart from other tattooers. Other than, I’ve always tried to keep it in my mind that this is an event for my clients. One that they will remember for years to come. And making it a positive experience can be just as important as the tattoo itself.

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?
Well, I can be painfully introverted. And I’m pretty much a homebody. But I do love to hike and spend time out in nature. So, I’d probably suggest a trip up to the mountains or red rocks park, The Denver Botanical gardens is always interesting. And I’ve been really interested in checking out one of the local wolf sanctuaries.

My favorite restaurants and bars tend to be local mainstays that I’ve frequented for years; Brewery Bar 2, El Taco De Mexico, Barolo, Pete’s Kitchen, Steubens, the Cherry Cricket, The P.S. Lounge, The Thin Man, Englewood Grand and The Cruise Room.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I would like to thank and acknowledge my amazing wife, Sage. I would not be where I am today without her unwavering support and belief in me. Especially during the times I have trouble believing in myself.

I would also like to thank my clients for their support, dedication and great tattoo ideas over the years.
I am constantly humbled by their trust in me.

Website: www.patrickshackley.com

Instagram: @shackley_tattoos

Facebook: @MonarchTattooStudio

Youtube: Monarch Tattoo