Lucky Bastard

Lucky Bastard is the owner and a highly respected artist at Fine Tattoo Work in Orange, California. His extensive career in tattooing began in the early 1980s, heavily influenced by the punk rock and gang subcultures of Los Angeles. After an apprenticeship and working in established shops like The Picture Machine in San Francisco, Lucky embarked on a four-year journey across continents, immersing himself in diverse tattoo traditions from Europe to Asia, including Maori, Thai, and Japanese styles.

This global experience profoundly shaped his artistic vision, leading him to specialize in both traditional Americana and Japanese tattooing. He is particularly known for his “tradition with progress” philosophy, adeptly integrating Japanese techniques and an understanding of body mechanics into his bold Americana style. His dedication to Japanese tattooing was recognized by the revered Horiyoshi III, who bestowed upon him the honorary name “Horiko.”

In 2004, Lucky Bastard established Fine Tattoo Work, designing a spacious, open studio environment inspired by Sabado’s Super Eccentric Tattoo in Japan. He is committed to creating solid, authentic tattoos, drawing inspiration from masters such as Mike Malone and Bob Roberts, and fostering a professional yet welcoming atmosphere for clients. His work reflects a deep respect for tattooing’s roots while embracing its continuous evolution, making him a pivotal figure in the Orange County tattoo scene.