Michael

About Me

Hello my name is Michael von Weiler, I’ve always been drawing. If it was in the margins of my schoolwork, after finishing tests. To painting and airbrushing murals in my bedroom as a kid. I grew up around heavily tattooed people my entire life. I’ve always been intrigued by the bold art, commitment and overall look of body adornment. While in the military, I would draw flash for buddies. That would get my work tattooed on them during Liberty. When I finished my time of service, I was talking to a good friend who was tattooing in AZ. We made an agreement, that if he ever opened a shop back home. He’d teach me. So in 2004 I started my apprenticeship under the very talented artist Dan Mrusko, at Royal Tattoo Company. (Currently Grace Tattoo). Everything was great and I learned soo much under his tutelage. But I eventually broke my hand, and forced me to change plans. After working as a tow truck operator while nursing my hand back to health. I then I had the offer to work alongside the incredibly talented Fritz Andrews (Black Sails tattoo) at The War Room. Where I learned the discipline and work ethic to push my boundaries of art, and break out of my comfort zone. Then the recession happened. Being one of many local shops, it became apparent that the current local market was too vast. Another minor setback, but nothing that would stop my drive. Fritz went westward. And soon after I had the opportunity to open my own shop (8th Veil Studios). Using the work ethic and dedication, that was instilled in me by those gentlemen. I opened in 08’ a year after my son was born. I assembled a small crew of very talented artists along the way. 6 apprentices along the way, 3 becoming tattoo artists. And one of them blossoming into one of the most talented artists I’ve ever witnessed. After 10 years, a fire, and a flood, I changed direction again. And focused on airbrushing and painting. Along the way, my clientele has been extremely vast. From working with Olympic gold medalists and other professional athletes, to working with 80 year olds, and 18 year olds looking for their first piece. I’ve came a long way, learned from every person I sat across from. Took classes from the old time legends such as Lyle Tuttle. And always inspired by my childhood tattoo idol, Bob Bartlett (RIP). Who mesmerized me with his raw freehand talent. I’ve changed directions along the way. But never letting go of my dream. To make art for anyone who wanted a piece of my vision. After all the setbacks and dealing with the realities of life. It only made my hunger to get back in the tattooing more intense. With that being said. I’ve learned that humility and wisdom, can manifest itself into a humble yearning, To be better than I was before. And to take my talents to new heights. While surrounding myself with other talented individuals, looking to do the same. I’m thankful for the opportunity that has been presented to me. And I want nothing more, then to push myself. So that each day is better than the last. If you’re gonna wear your heart on your sleeve. Make sure it’s a Black Heart. 🖤