Dave Regan

Dave Regan is a highly respected tattoo artist, author, and musician based in Denver, Colorado. As the proprietor of a private studio under the name Tradition Tattooing, he has cultivated a career specializing in both intricate Japanese-inspired tattooing, often referred to as horimono, and classic Americana-style designs. His artistic journey began in Baltimore, Maryland, in 2001, and has since garnered a global reputation.

Dave is particularly renowned for his expertise in large-scale Japanese traditional work, including full-body designs, which he approaches with deep reverence for history, language, and craft culture. His passion for Japanese aesthetics extends beyond tattooing, influencing his involvement with the Denver Botanic Garden’s Japanese garden program and the trees of Hakubai Zen Temple.

Beyond the tattoo machine, Dave is a prolific creative. He is the author of ‘Horimono: A Western Perspective’ through Afterlife Press and has contributed articles to several trade publications like Tattoo Artist Magazine. As a multi-instrumentalist, he composes scores and full-length albums, with his music notably featured in the identity rebrand for the Holocaust Museum LA. Clients seeking bespoke Japanese-themed or Americana tattoos in the Denver area will find his dedication to collaboration and artistic range make him a sought-after professional.