About me

About me

Alan Padilla is a tattoo artist and painter based in San Pedro, California, and the owner of The Artistry, a unique space that blends a wine bar with an art gallery. It’s here that Alan showcases his own work and the work of other talented artists, creating a welcoming environment that encourages creative expression. With a deep appreciation for culture and storytelling, Alan’s art is a reflection of his personal experiences and the diverse influences he has encountered throughout his life.

For 13 years, Alan was also the co-owner of Timeline Gallery, where he helped to shape the local art scene and fostered an environment of creative growth. His experience at Timeline Gallery has been invaluable in helping him build The Artistry into the dynamic space it is today.

In addition to running The Artistry, Alan is the co-founder of the Viva La Tinta Tattoo Convention in Guadalajara, an event that brings together tattoo artists from around the world to share their craft and learn from one another. His work has been featured in several well-respected publications, including Tattoo Life, Lowrider, Tattoo Society, and Inked Magazine. Alan is particularly known for his expertise in black and gray tattooing, a style that allows him to create rich, detailed tattoos that tell a story and capture the beauty of his subjects.

Alan’s tattoos have been seen on a variety of clients, including musicians, UFC fighters, and even film director Antoine Fuqua—best known for Training Day and The Equalizer. While grateful for these opportunities, Alan is more focused on the process of creating meaningful art for each person who sits in his chair.

Alongside his tattooing, Alan has a passion for charra oil painting, where he merges traditional techniques with cultural storytelling. This blend of heritage and creativity is central to his work, whether in his tattoos, paintings, or collaborations. Alan enjoys bringing a piece of his culture into his art, often exploring themes from Mexican folklore and traditions.

Alan is fortunate to travel the world, teaching seminars and attending conventions in places like Germany, Italy, Japan, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Colombia, France, Australia (Melbourne), Taiwan, and more. Each of these experiences has helped him grow as both an artist and a person, learning from those he meets along the way.

While Alan has been lucky to work with brands like Bishop Tattoo Equipment, Critical Tattoo, Kwadron, and Panthera Ink, and collaborate with companies like Sullen Clothing and Santa Cruz Skateboards, he remains focused on improving his craft and sharing his passion with others. Most of all, Alan is grateful for the opportunity to work with clients and artists who continue to inspire him every day.

Press Mentions & Media Appearances:

  • Tattoo Life Magazine
  • Lowrider Magazine
  • Tattoo Society Magazine
  • Tattoo Magazine
  • Inked Magazine
  • Featured in several industry publications for work in black and gray tattooing
  • Guest at various international conventions, including God of Ink (Germany), and events in Italy, Japan, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Colombia, France, Australia (Melbourne), Taiwan, and more

Collaborations & Sponsorships:

  • Bishop Tattoo Equipment
  • Critical Tattoo
  • Kwadron
  • Panthera Ink
  • Sullen Clothing Company (Design Collaborations)
  • Skateboard design collaborations with Santa Cruz Skateboards

Awards & Recognition:

  • Honored with multiple awards in Black and Gray Tattooing
Back to blog