Today we’d like to introduce you to Etgar Oak.
Hi Etgar, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started tattooing over two decades ago and built my career through years of hands-on experience, constant learning, and working in different countries. I worked in many studios in Europe, traveled extensively, and tattooed a wide range of clients, which shaped not only my style but also my approach to the craft and to people.
As my career grew, I became more focused on creating meaningful, long-lasting work and on the experience surrounding it. Tattooing isn’t just about the final image – it’s about trust, communication, and the environment you create for someone who’s committing to a permanent piece.
At the end of 2021, I moved from Europe to New York, where I continued to grow my career in the U.S., working, networking, and becoming part of the American tattoo scene. During my time in New York, I participated in conventions, earned awards, and gained recognition for my work, which helped solidify my presence and reputation in the U.S.
After moving from New York to Austin, it felt like the right time to build something of my own. Golden Oak Tattoo was created as an artist-owned studio built around quality, intention, and respect – for the craft, for the artists, and for every client who walks through the door. I wanted a space that values custom work, cleanliness, safety, and a calm, welcoming atmosphere rather than a rushed, high-volume model.
Today, Golden Oak Tattoo reflects everything I’ve learned along the way. Every tattoo is approached as a unique project, and the studio is built on trust, consistency, and long-term relationships. My goal has always been simple: to create work I’m proud of and a place people feel confident returning to.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most long-term careers in tattooing, it’s been built through trial, persistence, and a lot of hard lessons.
Working across different countries meant constantly adapting – to new regulations, cultures, expectations, and markets. Moving from Europe to the U.S. came with its own challenges, from rebuilding professional networks to establishing myself in a new industry environment. Starting over in New York required patience, consistency, and proving myself again, even after years of experience.
Opening Golden Oak Tattoo added another layer of challenges. Building a studio from the ground up – especially as an artist-owner – meant handling everything from logistics and compliance to construction, finances, and long-term planning, all while maintaining the same level of focus on my tattoo work. Balancing creative integrity with the realities of running a business has been one of the biggest ongoing challenges.
A huge part of overcoming those challenges has been my wife, who manages the studio and handles the day-to-day operations. The business side was completely new to her as well, yet she went far beyond what was expected – learning everything from scratch and making sure the shop runs smoothly. Her dedication allows me to stay focused on tattooing and my art, knowing that every other detail is being handled with the same care and intention.
That said, every obstacle helped shape the studio and my approach to the work. Those challenges reinforced the importance of intention, quality, and building something sustainable rather than taking shortcuts. Looking back, the difficult parts were essential in getting to where things are today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Golden Oak Tattoo?
Golden Oak Tattoo is an artist-owned tattoo studio built around intention, quality, and trust. We focus on custom, one-of-a-kind tattoos and take a thoughtful approach to both the artwork and the client experience. Every piece is designed specifically for the person wearing it, with time dedicated to understanding the idea, refining the design, and executing it at the highest level.
The studio is known for high-quality custom work, strong attention to detail, and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. We prioritize cleanliness, safety, clear communication, and making sure clients feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire process – from the first conversation to aftercare. The experience matters just as much as the tattoo itself.
What sets Golden Oak Tattoo apart is that it’s truly artist-driven. We don’t operate on a high-volume or walk-in-heavy model. Instead, we focus on meaningful projects, long-term relationships, and supporting artists so they can do their best work. Each artist at the studio has their own style and strengths, and we value collaboration, respect, and creative integrity over trends.
Brand-wise, what I’m most proud of is the trust we’ve built. Golden Oak Tattoo isn’t just a place to get tattooed – it’s a studio people return to, recommend to friends, and feel confident choosing for something permanent. The brand reflects consistency, professionalism, and care, without losing the personal, human side of tattooing.
What I want readers to know is that Golden Oak Tattoo is built with intention at every level. We care deeply about the work, the people who create it, and the people who wear it. Our goal isn’t to be the biggest studio – it’s to be one that stands for quality, respect, and lasting artistry.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I don’t rely on a single book or podcast, but I’m influenced by a mix of creative and practical resources that help me stay focused and intentional.
Books around craftsmanship, discipline, and creative process have always resonated with me – especially ones that emphasize consistency, patience, and mastery over shortcuts. I’m drawn to reading that reinforces the idea of doing things properly, whether in art or in business.
I also value self-development books, especially those centered on personal responsibility and growth. I believe that if you want to change your work, your environment, or even the world around you, it has to start with working on yourself first.
On a daily level, simple tools make the biggest difference. Scheduling and organization apps help keep structure around creative work, while reference and design tools support the tattoo process itself.
Podcasts and long-form conversations are something I return to when I want to slow down and reflect. I’m more interested in thoughtful discussions with artists, creators, and builders than in hype-driven content. Hearing how others navigate creative careers, pressure, and long-term growth is often more valuable than any single tip or tactic.
Overall, I try to keep my inputs intentional. The goal is to stay inspired, grounded, and focused on long-term quality – both in my work and in how I live.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://goldenoaktattoo.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldenoaktattoo/
