Today we’d like to introduce you to Dillon Forte.
Hi Dillon, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started tattooing out of a deep interest in art, symbolism, and ancient cultures. My early work was basic compared to the niche style I have today. I began with an apprenticeship in Northern California and soon after opened my own shop in my early 20s. From the beginning, I was drawn to tattooing as more than decoration or a trend. I saw it as a way to tell stories, mark transitions, and create something meaningful and permanent for people. I spent those early years honing my craft, tattooing friends, and learning not just technique but also the history and intention behind the imagery I created.
As my style evolved, I became known for large-scale, intricate work that blends geometry, spiritual symbolism, mandalas, and elements inspired by ancient civilizations and the universe. That approach led to working with incredible clients from around the world, including musicians, athletes, entrepreneurs, and creatives seeking something highly personal, intentional, and unique. Within a few years of opening my studio, tattooing became my full-time focus and allowed me to expand into entrepreneurship, creating spinoff brands, tattoo machines, sculptures, paintings, and most recently a drawing app for iPadOS. Today, my work is a balance of art, business, and personal growth.
Tattooing remains at the core of everything I do, but my journey has grown to include creating spaces and platforms that support creativity, discipline, and long-term thinking. Every step has been about staying curious, pushing my limits, and building something that lasts. I love working in the Austin area, and Texas is home for both my family and my business.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
If any entrepreneur says their journey was smooth, they are either lying or too proud to admit their faults haha. My path has had plenty of ups and downs, and while there were many struggles and sacrifices for myself and my family, I have zero regrets. Running a tattoo studio demands a huge amount of time, and it’s a service-based business that doesn’t generate income unless that tattoo machine is on. I was fortunate to build a strong book of business and receive plenty of referrals, but in the early days, there were times I didn’t think I would make it. Even a single day without work could mean the difference between paying rent or finding another shop to work at. Marketing, word of mouth, and your overall reputation proves to be just as important as the work itself.
Some challenges were more about location than skill. I live and work where it makes me happy, which isn’t always the easiest path compared to setting up shop where foot traffic is highest. I had to learn to stick to my core values and trust that the work will come if I honor myself. Those who truly want to work with me will make the trek, no matter the location. Right now, my studio is in downtown Wimberley, and I couldn’t be happier with it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Although I’m mostly known as a tattoo artist, I see myself more as a visionary. I’m drawn to many forms of art and don’t want to be defined by just one thing. That said, for the purpose of this article, I’m a tattoo artist with a deep passion for art, symbolism, and the stories behind the imagery I create.
With each client, I work closely with them and can often visualize how a design will ultimately materialize as a finished tattoo. I really enjoy this work, and every day brings a new experience. I specialize in large-scale, intricate pieces that blend sacred geometry, mandalas, spiritual symbolism, and elements inspired by patterns in nature and ancient architecture and design. Over the years, I’ve become known for creating tattoos that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful for each client. Each tattoo is carefully planned, sometimes months in advance, and can take days, weeks, or even months to complete. I’m proud to have built a career that merges art, storytelling, and entrepreneurship here in Texas.
Beyond tattooing, I’ve recently been working on canvas art, promoting a sacred geometry drawing app that just launched its 2.0 version on iPadOS, and developing a new tattoo machine with fellow artist Andrea De Leon. The art I create and the personal brand I’ve built help me stand out, but I don’t focus on what others are doing. I genuinely wish fellow artists the best, and I value the way the tattoo industry encourages support and learning from one another. At the end of the day, standing out isn’t the priority, it’s about creating meaningful work and fostering community.
How do you think about happiness?
My family, expressing myself creatively, and traveling the world. I think keeping priorities simple and staying true to them is key to a happy life. We should all aim for a genuine work-life balance, one where work doesn’t feel like work, and time off allows you to recharge so you can give your best to both your clients and yourself. It makes you a better person, husband, father, and creative human.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.dillonforte.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillonforte
Image Credits
Dillon Forte
