I'm Jeff Gogue (pronounced go-gway). I did my first tattoo in August of 1999, and began tattooing full time August of 2000. Self taught, I've been influenced by people like Robert Hernandez, Nikko Hurtado, Shige, Bob Tyrrell, and Joe Capobianco. I've been somewhat mentored by Cory Norris of Classic Tattoo, Grass Valley, California, and Kevin Cox of Aces Tattoo, in Reno Nevada. I really want to strive for creative, dynamic, refined work. Not necessarily "photo-realistic" but detailed where needed, and loose where it's appropriate. I also love oil painting when I can, and have been doing so, off and on, for the last couple years. I am expressive by nature. I'm transparent, but multifaceted, revealing some contrasts and mysterious ways. You can't see all of who I am from any one angle, so, in my quest for relevance, I am trying to expose as much as I can bare to. This stage in my life is fairly new, since I feel that up until the last year or two, I've only been striving for technical ability... just to be good at manipulating paint or ink or whatever, doesn't send any message besides being disciplined and methodical. I am ready to see what's inside... though it leaves me vulnerable to disappointment, both in myself and in everyone else... I am still ready. I don't think anyone lives completely honest. We all hide that which we are ashamed of. Desiring to minimize our faults and maximize our strengths. I'm no different, but I'm willing to see how honest I can be. I'm sure it will take time, since all I know is just that.