In February 1976, John Nash moved from Sydney to Brisbane to work for Dutchy, one of the well known old school tattooists. (Dec)  The shop that he worked in with Dutchy, was located in Fortitude Valley. By the end of his first year in Brisbane, Dutchy returned to NSW and John then took over the business. This shop was, I think I would be correct in saying, the first professional tattoo studio in Queensland.

John then gave the business a new name and logo to capture attention in the Valley area, and the growing city of Brisbane.

Les Bowen helped John with his initial setup. Together they came up with the name High Energy Tattooing and a business card design depicting a traditional old school type eagle within a storm.

Over the past thirty four years, High Energy Tattooing has been located in four different areas in Brisbane, the latest, located in Red hill. This new studio is more modern and upmarket than previously.

John has three very talented and dedicated tattoo artists working for him at High Energy Tattooing.

Joe O’Brien, has been with High Energy Tattooing for the past seven years.  He is an outstanding artist with over 30yrs of experience. Joe specialises in portrait, japanese, tribal and custom work. Joe is in high demand so make sure you book in early to get a session with Joe

Bob Heath, has been with us for four years. He has a wealth of experience in free hand and custom work.  He has a good clientele, which include several players from one of Brisbane's more elite rugby league teams. Bob's work was recently acknowledged at a tattoo show held in Brisbane on the 12th of June. His client won "The Best Overall" tattoo in the female section. The trophy awarded will be on show at High Energy Tattooing at a later date. Congratulations Bob! 

Jamie Sunday, has recently joined our team. Jamie completed his apprenticeship in Melbourne. Over the years he has worked with Max Chater and Pete Blackwell at Village tattooing Kings Cross. Welcome to the team Jamie!  A gallery for Jamie is on its way so keep watching this space.

 Footnote

John has been very busy over the past forty years, in which he has taken up Entertaining as a solo singer.  He was, in the early days, supported by his late wife Faye, who gave him encouragement to pursue his dream.