Tattoo Artist Promises Proposed Parlor Won't Have 'Skulls Everywhere'

IRVING PARK — When people picture tattoo parlors, Dan Shenfeld knows what images spring to mind: "Blood on the walls and skulls everywhere."

Shenfeld and business partner Angel Morillas say they have something very different planned for Black Atlas Studios, the parlor they hope to open at 3219 W. Montrose Ave., pending approval of a special use permit by the Zoning Board of Appeals.

"We are very anti the cliche," Shenfeld said as he presented his proposal for Black Atlas at a recent meeting of The Residents of Irving Park.

"What we want to do is classy," he said. "Like a high-end salon," with lots of hardwood and rustic metal decor.

"My partner and I are very willing to invest ... in making the area look nicer," he added.

Shenfeld and Morillas met while working at a tattoo parlor in Rogers Park.

"We've learned what to do and what not," he said.

Responding to questions from residents, Shenfeld, who has a degree in media arts and animation, clarified that the shop would strictly ink tattoos — no piercings. Hours of operation are still to be determined, he said, but he anticipated the parlor would be open six days a week, noon to 10 p.m.

Given that neither Shenfeld nor Morillas live in Irving Park, neighbors wondered how they would attract customers to their shop.

"People walk around and ask, 'Who did that?'" said Shenfeld, explaining that a tattoo artist's work serves as his business card.

Shenfeld said he's built a small clientele of regulars, and Morillas, whose realistic style draws on his experience as a photographer, has an even larger following. Morillas wasn't at the Monday community meeting because he was attending an industry convention, Body Art Expo in Las Vegas.

The shop's location — blocks from a Brown Line station along a bustling section of Montrose with high visibility — should also lure walk-ins, he noted.

"We're hoping to be that much better than everyone around us," he added.

The business partners are the lone investors in the venture.

"I've saved my money, he's saved his money," said Shenfeld, who's currently bartending. "We're putting it all into the shop."

Community members liked what they heard.

"Welcome," said Misha Mann, president of TRIP. "Bring more businesses with you."

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