Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Professional Tattoo and Body Art Training Since 1968
Founded in 1968 by Dr. Bill Pogue, our institution stands as the world's first dedicated tattoo training school. We specialize in providing comprehensive, hands-on education in tattoo artistry, body piercing, and permanent makeup, combining traditional techniques with modern methodologies. Our curriculum emphasizes practical experience through live client practice, personalized instruction, and business management training. Graduates receive essential equipment to start their careers immediately and benefit from ongoing support through open floor practice sessions. With a family-owned atmosphere and instructors who are industry leaders, we maintain a legacy of excellence while adapting to contemporary industry standards.Our alumni network spans global locations, with many graduates successfully operating their own studios. The school's unique approach integrates neuro-linguistic programming techniques to enhance learning effectiveness. We offer flexible scheduling options including intensive workshops, apprenticeship programs, and specialized seminars focused on business operations. Our facility in Shreveport, Louisiana, serves as both a training ground and a hub for professional development in the body art industry.
Services
Tattoo Workshops
Body Piercing Training
Permanent Makeup Courses
Business Seminars
Apprenticeship Programs
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- Established in 1968 as the world's first tattoo training school
- Graduates receive professional equipment to start working immediately
- Combines technical training with business management instruction
- Offers ongoing support through open floor practice sessions
- Family-owned with industry-leading instructors and proven methodologies
What people say
Changed my life
Awesome experience
Business booming
Best money spent
Life-changing training
Services
Master Workshop
Our 18-hour tattoo workshop teaches fundamental techniques including machine construction, lining, shading, and coloring. Students gain hands-on experience through live client practice while learning essential safety protocols. The course includes all necessary equipment and Louisiana licensing preparation, with six free retakes available for continued skill development.
Body Piercing Workshop
This 3-day intensive program covers aseptic techniques, sterilization processes, and various piercing methods from basic to exotic procedures. Participants receive professional jewelry sets and practice on human models under supervision. The curriculum includes aftercare instruction and prepares graduates for immediate industry employment.
Permanent Make-Up Workshop
Designed for experienced artists, this workshop teaches modern cosmetic tattoo procedures including eyebrows, eyeliner, and lip enhancements. The course includes advanced techniques like color corrections and areola restoration. Students receive comprehensive training materials and access to practice facilities for continued skill refinement.
Tattoo Business Seminar
This 2-day seminar provides essential business knowledge for tattoo industry professionals. Topics include shop setup, operational procedures, and business acquisition strategies. The program focuses exclusively on business aspects rather than technical tattooing skills, offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs at any career stage.
Apprenticeship Program
Complimentary apprenticeship opportunities available to Master Workshop graduates. Includes structured training logs, procedure documentation, and personalized instruction. The program meets state licensing requirements while providing real-world experience in a professional studio environment under expert supervision.
People
Dr. Leonard William Pogue
Owner & Lead Instructor
Founder of the world's first tattoo school in 1968, Dr. Pogue is a retired chiropractor and certified naturopathic physician who revolutionized tattoo education through hands-on training methods.
Chanel Aguilera
Enrollment Director
Manages student admissions and coordinates workshop schedules while maintaining the school's professional yet welcoming atmosphere for aspiring artists from around the world.
Harvey Kennedy
Body Piercing Instructor
Experienced piercing specialist and assistant tattoo instructor who owns local studio Tattoo Paradise, bringing practical industry knowledge to students through his MMA background and outdoor expertise.
Brandy Howard
Permanent Make-Up Instructor
Certified permanent cosmetic technician and former graduate who continues professional education to maintain cutting-edge techniques while sharing expertise with students pursuing cosmetic tattoo careers.
Questions
What tattoo training programs do you offer?
We provide three core programs: 18-hour Master Tattoo Workshop, 3-day Body Piercing Workshop, and 3-day Permanent Make-Up Workshop with specialized business seminars.
Do you teach business management skills?
Yes, our Weekend Tattoo Business Seminar covers shop setup, operations, and acquisition strategies to help graduates establish successful studios.
Are payment plans available?
Financing options exist for the Master Workshop through personal loans, family support, or PayPal Credit with full payment required one week before classes start.
Do you offer continuing education?
Graduates receive free open floor practice sessions and apprenticeship opportunities to maintain skills and stay current with industry developments.
What makes your school unique?
As the world's first tattoo school established in 1968, we combine proven teaching methods with modern techniques and provide graduates with startup equipment.
Do you help with licensing requirements?
We guide students through state-specific requirements including Louisiana's body art permits and CPR certification through American Red Cross courses.
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