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Insight Studios
Rating Details »
Neighborhood: Noble Square
1062 N Milwaukee Avenue
(between Cortez St & Noble St)
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 342-4444
1062 N Milwaukee Avenue
(between Cortez St & Noble St)
Chicago, IL 60622
(773) 342-4444
Mention "Yelp" for a $10 discount!
We appreciate all the great yelpers so we are giving back to you. When you come into Insight Studios, mention "yelp" and get $10 off!
Announced 4 days ago- Nearest Transit:
-
Division (Blue)
- Hours:
Mon-Thu. 2:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Fri. 2:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Sat. 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Sun. 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
- Price Range:
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$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
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"I have been worked on in this shop by a visiting artist, and was treated amazingly by everyone who worked in the shop. This was a few years…" read more »
137 reviews for Insight Studios
Insight Studios was gracious enough to hold a benefit for Tree House Humane Society, a no kill cat shelter that I am acquainted with. I have been wanting to get another tattoo for a long time so this was the perfect incentive.
I want to first start off by saying how fabulous the owners of this studio are. They donated 100% of the proceeds to TH and they worked their butts off. Each night the benefit was suppose to end at 8p. However, more people than originally expected showed up for the cause, so the guys at the studio worked until at least 11:00pm each night so they can accommodate everyone and they can get what they wanted done, whether it be a piercing or a tattoo.
Right away, when I walked into this place I could tell it was different than other shops. As soon as I walked in the door I was greeted right away and it was impeccably clean. Everyone there was extremely nice. You could tell the people who worked there were like a family and they made you feel like a part of it. These guys don't look at this as just work or just their job, but as a passion, as an art, which is extremely important to me. Especially since I have to trust my body, my temple in their hands. They made it easy for me to have the confidence that I needed. They were all extremely personable and didn't have the I'm better than you attitude. They are and were real.
My tattoo artist's name was Brian and he was amazing. He took something that was symbolic to me and made it into a reality and I thank him for that. He chatted with me the whole time to help me get my mind off the pain. Something that most tattooists I found won't do. He too being an animal lover made the experience a bit more special to me. I knew he understood and I was glad that I can have an artist share the symbolism in which my tattoo was to me. My art came out beautifully and I smile everyday that I see it and that he was able to make my vision true.
I spent a lot of time there that weekend as I waited for friends to get their tattoos done. And Another thing that I found that I have to give 2 thumbs up for is these artists really listen. Some people walked in with pictures of what they wanted and the tattooist's discussed their options thoroughly and helped make their ideas into one of kind pieces of arts. I know some shops will just take the picture and do it even knowing it won't look or come out right. You won't find that here. They put their client and their bodies of canvas first. What a rarity that is.
What is positively astonishing is that they are constantly giving back to their communities. They throw multiple benefits for different charities through out the year and help raise funds. Seriously All I can say is ...Exceptional, truly exceptional Insight. You are definitely a first class act! I will, would, and have recommended Insight Studios to everyone. Thank you for everything!
The Tree House Humane Society Tats for Cats benefit finally got me in the door for my first tattoo. I had wanted to get tattooed for years but, all kinds of fears kept me away. In the meantime, my son had been tattooed at Insight by Ryan and I was really impressed by the work.
Right from the start, I had an amazing experience! Bob and Ben handled the crowd on Saturday extremely well-they needn't have been apologetic at the wait, we were all enjoying the experience. There were a number of us about to be tattooed for the first time and they seemed genuinely pleased about that.
Brian did the actual work and I can't say enough good things about his work. He explained his reservations about my initial design and I couldn't be more pleased with the actual tattoo. It is really beautiful, better than I could have imagined The entire process was painless, which was completely unexpected. Virtually no scabbing and little itching. I should be all ready to go for a second tattoo in January when Insight has another Tree House Tats for Cats benefit.
Highly, highly recommend Insight Studios! They also have a fan page on Facebook.
I got my nose pierced by Bob. He and my friend talked about music while he was doing the piercing, and he worked pretty fast. I'm a big baby though, so I was nervous and scared the whole time until it was all over. I'm glad I brought a friend to help me get through that. Bob seemed to be in a pretty serious mood except when talking about music with my friend. So, I don't have much to say about friendliness, but he was completely professional and the piercing turned out great. It's almost four months since I got the piercing, and I haven't had any problems.
Thank you Bob!
Five stars for fast work, less pain than I thought it would be, cleanliness, etc.
This is my first tattoo, and if it were not for charity (Insight Studios donated 100% of all the profits) I would not have even got one. The front desk staff and the tattoo artist are all very good communicators, and they make sure you get what you want within your budget. My artist Brian B. draw an amazing portrait of my cat. I got so many compliments for his beautiful. Whether you want piercing or a tattoo, you can't go wrong with Insight.
Just an update... I got a tattoo retouched and a small bit added.
I'm a very bad customer and forgot who did the tattoo, but I can tell you he was really great and I'm very happy with the results. As always, I highly recommend them!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/23/2009
I originally planned on going to Insight Studios but a friend suggested a different studio. After… Read more »
I got my second tattoo here by Brian, and he was excellent. He took the time to work on the stencil, and really took his time in being intricate with the work. My friend and I went in together thinking this was going to be a couple hours, but we took up Brian's whole day. He was so patient and nice with us, and watching him work was amazing. He is incredibly talented, and I plan on going back to him for my next. He also touched up my first one (since it had been about 5 years and faded) complimentary, and stuck to the price he had originally quoted me, even though after it was over, I feel like he massively undercharged me. He represents Insight Studios with his work, professionalism, and honesty and I will be a faithful returning customer.
Since I also spent about 8 hours there, I got to witness other customers getting tattooed and pierced, and all of the artists seemed so personable and their relationships with their clientele seemed great. It was all in all the best experience it could have been, and I love love LOVE the finished work!
It has been one week now....and the tat is healing perfectly. I love it so much, i think i love it more than my family. :-D hehehee.
No seriously though....FAB-U-LOUS! It itched for 1-2 days and the scabbing is about almost gone.
LOVE LOVE LOVE INSIGHT.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/25/2009
This place truly deserves its constant 5-star ratings.
I had decided to get my first tattoo (when i… Read more »
Just got back from my tattoo and I am so happy!
I went in last minute to get hebrew lettering on my lower side (just under my rib cage). I was expecting about two hours of agony. Instead, I got one hour of mildly ticklish and occasionally uncomfortable tattooing! I was seriously shocked at how little this hurt. I swear that Mat has the lightest hand I've ever seen!
All their employees are professional, polite, and the artist that worked on me was very efficient! Since I only got black lettering, I can't say whether he's an "amazing artist" but the work he did on me is great!
I'll be going back shortly to get another piece done...this time something more intricate and interesting.
I can't really comment on price, since all my other pieces were done by friends, but it didn't seem outrageous.
I had to get my piercings adjusted and Bob was awesome in getting me fitted with longer barbells for my piercings. He didn't charge me for the new barbells, but I made sure to tip him.
Need a piercing? Insight studios is your place. Ask for Bob Jones :) and TIP YOUR PIERCER OR TATTOO ARTIST!
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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7/26/2009
I finally went ahead and got my nipples pierced. I'd been talking about it for ages, especially… Read more »
I've actually resisted signing up on Yelp until today - Insight finally moved me enough to join the masses. :) Bob pierced my lip over the summer, and since then I have had to go in and get new jewelry three times, since my lip can't decide what it likes and what it doesn't. I feel like the biggest pain in the ass customer, but they have treated me with nothing but kindness at Insight! For those who are unsure about his personality: look closer. Yes, he is pretty serious. But that's a trait I welcome in a piercer! I've seen him interact with all kinds of customers, and he treats them all with professionalism and respect. There's a quiet warmth there, not so far beneath the surface. Insight is amazing because they leave the politics and the rock star mentality at home. They just. Plain. Rock.
On behalf of my boyfriend, who just got inked last weekend, I am giving Insight 5 stars!
Neither of us had gotten a tattoo before so we were both a little bit nervous, but we had done extensive research online and felt pretty confident that Insight was the right place. The store was IMMACULATE, and everything looked clean and professional. The artwork on the walls were cool too and basically the whole place had a nice vibe. It took a while for someone to help us (we sat and waited for quite a bit and I was starting to get annoyed), but when we finally met Steve, who would be my boyfriend's tattoo artist, it was all worth it!
First of all, we had stalked Steve's past work on the Insight website and knew that he was incredible at what he does. After showing him the design that he wanted (Thai characters), my boyfriend realized that he and Steve are both Muy Thai enthusiasts! That just added a whole new dimension to this experience. Awesooome.
Steve was great at communicating what he should expect, in terms of pain, aftercare, all that stuff. He also didn't care that I was hovering over them the whole time taking pictures/videotaping (and cheesily narrating/interviewing etc etc). He really made us feel at ease and the end product is beautiful (and it only took 30 minutes!) In fact, my boyfriend is already thinking about what he wants Steve to tattoo onto his body next...
I came in for Tats for Cats (to support Tree House Humane Society) and had an excellent experience, beginning to end. Thanks to Brian for the beautiful new ink and to Indy's other half for giving to a good cause.
I had the privelage of being educated about tattoos and piercings by a world class, award-winning tattoo artist from the age of 16, so I'm very particular about who I will let come near me with a needle. So particular, in fact, that after my first tattoo I waited 6 years to get another. After walking into numerous shops over the intervening years, I was finally able to feel comfortable at Insight.
I decided to check out Insight on the recommendation of Yelp reviewers (holla!), and I was not disappointed. The shop is immaculate, the guys are very friendly, and everyone was more than willing to answer my questions.
The biggest shout out, though, must go to Brian B. Brian took my idea, transformed it into a beautiful piece of art, and then transferred that onto my body. I now have a gorgeous family tree on my ribs, and it is far more beautiful than anything I could possibly have imagined on my own. During the process, Brian was patient and friendly, chatting when I needed distraction and staying quiet when I clearly just wanted to hide my head and grit my teeth. Four hours later, I have a magnificent tribute to my family.
Now, where to put my next one?
So I needed to fulfill a bet and get a tattoo of a mustache on my finger (true story). Just moved to Chicago so hopped on Yelp and found Insight.
You'll notice I actually created a yelp account Just to talk about how awesome these people are. MATT MORENO not only was hilarious, professional, chill, non-judgy (as some tattoo-ers can be), he was also extremely helpful in making sure that my mustache wouldn't show up in job interviews and the like. I knew my tattoo would be hilarious - I didn't know it'd be so damn pretty too.
He's a master with color and I couldn't be more pleased about my ginger 'stache. Great studio, Great artist, Great afternoon, Great Miss-tache.
Olde tyme man fix time. How you fix time man, with multifocal goggles and screwdriver man. Another intricate part, so small, thin like paper. Damn, why you wanna stick me for my date for?
Tattoo? Why? When you get older your tattoos will become wrinkley and ugly.
When I get old I will either be ugly and wrinkley or not ugly and wrinkley whether or not I have a couple of ugly wrinkley tattoos. That be old, man. With all due respect, old be ugly. Better put, old be uglier.
Check it, check two. Drawn up. I found a drawing I wanted tattooed. I didn't first call Insight, instead I drove to the place one early evening at around six thinking I had enough time to get inked. I did not. The artist I talked to, who eventually tatted me, said that he would have to draw up a drawing of the drawing...and work out the colors or absence of colors.
So, as it were, I went back the next night at which point the artist (i don't remember his name, tall bald dude) had 4 renderings of the drawing: 2 Monochromatic color, black and gray, and one black and gray with some color. I chose one, he did it and it looked exactly like the drawing. It looks amazing.
It seems as though the artist(s) take time before they put pin to skin. He wanted to make sure everything was the way I wanted. Me? I'm not much of a stickler, I would have been happy as long as the tatt looked like a man fixing a watch. My point is that my artist cared about what my tattoo was going to look like, seemingly more than I did. I just wanted him to knock it out the park on that first night, but I am glad that I waited.
The place is very clean. The staff is what you expect from a tattooing parlor. They are not 'rude,' but they won't shine your apple to please you either. I read complaints about how the artists seem to be arrogant and rude. I think they are just being misunderstood. I've come across many tattoo artists, some are outgoing, but a lot of them I've noticed are more reserved, may be even diffident. Don't take it personally. Although, my guy was seriously sensitive to what I wanted, seriously.
I had my shirt off because I was getting my back done. It was hella cold in there with the AC and their, what I thought at the time, field of ceiling fans (from the picture, it looks closer to 4 or 5). I gather from my experience that their pricing is way cheap. At one place, they were going to charge me a crazy amount extra for color. But at Insight I was told by my artist that they charge for the time. So far Insight has been the best priced, and I would argue the best looking tattoo I have.
I will definitely go back for a tatt if I ever want another one.
8/25/09: Thanks Bob, my artist's name was/is Thomas. Very nice guy.
These guys are absolutely fantastically talented artists. I've had work done here by Brian and Steve and I couldn't be happier with my results. The shop is impeccably clean and all the guys are super friendly. I wasn't even looking to get more tattoos but Steve put an awesome miniship tattoo on my friend and I knew I just had to have one too. He also but a sweet, insanely detailed baroque style teapot on my leg that I didn't even know I wanted till I saw it. Highly, highly recommend these guys for any job big or small, especially if you're looking for detail. I still have no idea how the amount of detail in my work is even possible.
I just had my first tattoo done by Brian B. on Saturday and am very happy with the experience and the results. After narrowing my options down to Deluxe and Insight, my girlfriends surprised me for my bachelorette party by taking me for a consult at Insight. I'm glad they made the choice they did.
Being as this was a surprise, I was neither dressed properly nor did I have any of the photos I had intended on bringing in with me. But neither ended up being a problem.
The studio was pretty empty, I was told it was because traffic dies down around back-to-school time. I was happy for the quiet. We didn't really wait at all and the guy at the front desk was friendly and chatted with us a bit about what I wanted. He pulled out a huge reference book and found the flower I wanted and then went in the back and printed out a water-color for reference.
I pointed out a few changes on the print-out and one of the other artists sketched up an outline. I said it looked good so they went in the back and printed up the outline. Before I knew it, I was laying at the station and Brian was already getting started. We had no idea that they'd have time for me to sit that night so I was both surprised and excited.
Brian patiently sketched out my flower line by line for about 2 1/2 hours while my bridesmaids watched. Since the studio was pretty empty we had free reign and my girls were able to sneak into the adjacent booth and perch over the barrier to watch the whole thing. Might not seem like a big deal but having Brian answer all of our questions and letting the crew watch the whole process made the experience a lot more enjoyable.
Once in a while the guy from up front would come over to check out the progress and Bob chatted with my sister-in-law about where she could find glass blocks locally to install in her basement windows. All in all it was just a very chill environment, which was really nice for me.
The place is extremely clean and laid back. Brian was kind of quiet and just concentrated on what he was doing. I appreciated that he was willing to let me get the whole piece done at once even though it took over 2 hours. I was happy that we'd come on a low traffic night.
I definitely didn't have the same experience as some of the other reviewers who said the guys at Insight were stuck up or rude. I guess sometimes personalities clash but no one there seemed very high strung so I'm not sure where those conflicts could have originated.
I've already recommended this place to a friend looking to get a custom piece done for which he'll need a lot of help from the artist to design. I had no idea that the flower I chose could ever look this good. Brian really took his time and put more detail into the piece than I could have imagined possible. I can't stop looking at it and am really very happy with the whole experience. I can't wait to go back with my sister-in-law for her tattoo.
Oh, and I'd say that the prices are very reasonable compared to what my friends were charged in Los Angeles and New York for their tattoos.
Perfect. I stopped in at the old location the day they were moving. The guys were super helpful, explained the situation, even showed me the new place. Very friendly, which was not even close to my last (and first) tattoo experience. I didn't feel like a yuppie or green or lame or not punk/dirty/emo/tattooed enough.
I went back a week or so later, talked to David. I didn't have any pictures, but I had an idea of what I wanted. We set an appt and he gave me his email address and told me to send him anything that came to mind. When I went in for my appt, what he had was beautiful, exactly what was in my head. They look super, I kinda wanna go back for another one. Now.
And it's clean here. Real clean. Go here. Seriously, don't even think of elsewhere. Ask for David Allen. I'm sure everyone else is great, but really, he is top notch.
Just wanted to give an update with a shout-out to the new pretty location and yet another fantastic job done by Bob Jones.
Went in last week for a conch piercing and Bob was as accommodating and friendly as ever. He made sure I was comfortable and allowed me to choose from 3 options for where I wanted my piercing.
It hurt a bit more than the others, but whatever, that's what happens when someone shoves a needle through a big hunk o'cartilage. It no longer hurts and is healing nicely. Thanks, Bob!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/20/2008
I joined Yelp just to add a review for Insight. I had my first non-ear piercing done by Bob last… Read more »
Okay, here's the deal. I'm kind of torn between the star rating to give it. I'll try to explain why and hopefully you'll read through my ramblings and decide for yourself if my rating is accurate. Background:
I stopped in without an appointment for a very simple wrist tattoo and a nose piercing. I came with my sister-in-law and she got a tattoo on the nape of her neck and a nose piercing. Nothing major or hard-core but still, we're paying customers, ya know?
Anyhow, the front desk girl is a total sweet-heart and really cool. Once you get past her, however, it's amazing that the artists can see what they are doing with their noses stuck so far in the air. I mean, I know I had a small tattoo but I'm not a rookie. That was my 4th shot of ink and every single one has meaning. I'm not a drunken tattoo girl. I've had my nose pierced before. And I'm in the process of getting a 10" tattoo on my back so kiss my ass if I'm not cool enough for you. And honestly, it wasn't just the guy that did mine, it was the piercer and everyone else working there that just kind of rolled their eyes at us. At Deluxe Tattoo they were cool as hell and didn't care if you were getting a tattoo of bambi on your back. It was all good.
The artist seemed to care less about doing my tattoo and I really need to go have him touch it up because some of the ink didn't take but honestly, I'd almost rather just pay someone at Deluxe to zap me and fix it. Heck, when I mentioned to the guy doing my work that I might want him to re-work a tattoo I had a long time ago, he looked at me and said, "What make you think I want to polish up your dog shit?" Ummmmmm. Yeah.
The place itself is nice and very clean. Like I said the girl up from was cool but everyone else I encountered was a jack-ass.
Bob (piercer) and Ryan (tattoo artist) are real American heroes. I came to Insight based on their awesome reviews, and good prices. I came back to Insight because Bob treated me so well. He is calm and not creepy, which is important for a girl getting her nipples pierced. He put my mind at ease, and the whole process was relatively painless. I was in and out in less than 30 minutes! 5 months later, one of the piercings didn't work out, but that was just my body's reaction to it, not Bob's fault, as the other looks lovely and straight and perfect!!
I had met Ryan previous to getting my sweet Lemur tattoo, through Bob. I gave him some ideas, and he drew up something different (but better... which is why he is the artist and I am not), and I loved it. The experience was awesome, the staff ruled, and my tattoo came out perfectly. My lines are solid and clean, and the shading makes it look so realistic. I can't leave my house without someone saying how amazing it looks.
Everyone who works here is super friendly and very talented. The studio itself is made of glass and stainless steel, and I am a sucker for non-porous surfaces when I'm getting some minor surgery done, which is what a piercings and tattoos are. There is no flash art, so don't expect to come walking in after a night of drinking with your bros to get that tribal arm band you always wanted. This place caters to those serious about getting seriously awesome work done.
As far as pricing goes, they are competitive and reasonable compared to other upscale studios. You definitely get what you pay for at Insight: Good service, good attitude, and most importantly: Good work.
Of all the place I've been tattooed, including the Yelp-beloved (and admittedly excellent) Flyrite in NYC, Insight was far and away the best, and will be the place I go back to for more ink whenever possible. It's really everything I could ask for in a studio. Clean and inviting, for a start - very cool use of space in the new location; plus it's one of the relatively rare tattoo studios I've encountered that didn't have something all the walls that immediately struck me as either dumb or tasteless. So the minute I stepped in, I became fond of the place.
But what's more important than that is the actual tattoo experience. It was basically perfect from the very beginning. I walked in with a very complicated design and no prior experience with their artists, and walked out with an appointment with Mat and a plan for how my tattoo would look. The guy at the desk was incredibly helpful about choosing an artist and scheduling. And when I came back for the actual ink, I was far beyond satisfied - Mat was really cool, and more importantly did a brilliant job on my ridiculously complex piece. I never felt nervous or uncomfortable, he worked efficiently but didn't hurry, and the ink turned out amazing - plus the price was very fair. Best tattoo experience of my life.
I also got a replacement earring for one I lost a while back while I was there, and Bob was extremely nice and helpful. So I'd say it's a good place to get pierced, too. All in all, absolutely fantastic. I'd give it 6 stars if I could.
Insight still stands as the best studio in Chicago after moving down the block. The new space is as bright, clean, beautiful and modern as the old place. Kudos for the parking not increasing in price despite the city selling off all the meters.
Best of all? Bob's dedication to customer service. I cannot emphasize enough what a great, professional, and all-around friendly guy he is.
A few months ago a piercing of mine swelled up amidst other health issues and, in a panic, I removed the jewelry. Showing up one evening with the jewelry and a sheepish expression, I asked Bob to redo the piercing. He complied, autoclaving the barbell and preparing a sterile work area. In what seemed like moments (given his positive bedside manner) it was over and he sent me off without a bill.
Serious praise for Mr. Jones and his crew at Insight. In a world that continually moves more and more towards instant gratification and ushering guests in and out as quickly as possible, this is a place that's still all about the customer's satisfaction.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/25/2008
After a bad piercing experience in college, I look towards the Association of Professional Piercers… Read more »
I couldn't be more pleased with my experience at Insight!!
My sister and I wanted to get matching tattoos for many years, but never got around to actually doing it. Then I saw the Groupon and (just like Colleen C.) I figured it was time to turn our idea into reality.
I started by calling Insight to find out the scoop on the shop and spoke with Bob Jones. He was super nice, answered all my questions and encouraged me to take a look at their website, stop by and check 'em out.
My sister and I headed in on a Friday night to check out the shop. WOW! Clean is an understatement. It really does have the feel of a dentist or doctor's office, but with way cooler staff and art. Everyone we encountered at the shop was equally as friendly/courteous as Bob was over the phone. We met with Mat Moreno (the artist we chose), discussed our design, paid a deposit and scheduled our appointment for a couple weeks later. Sweet.
Fast forward two weeks and it was time to get the job done! I was stoked, albeit a bit nervous, it had been almost 10 years since I was last inked (and this was the first time for lil sis). I was anxious to see the design Mat created based solely on a loose idea with a few adjectives (whimsical, silly, cute) and again, WOW! It was awesome, not what I imagined, but even better. The price was very good (even if we didn't have the Groupon).
Mat was professional, thorough, made us very comfortable and he was fun! Despite the fact that he thought my sister and I were lesbian couple (not that there's anything wrong with that)! Dude, he's lucky we have a good sense of humor! I should deduct a star for that shit, but the tattoo turned out so well I'm not gonna hold it against him! ;)
All joking aside, Mat Moreno is a rock star tattoo artist!! I HIGHLY recommend him! He was very patient with me when I had a hard time deciding on the final location of my new tattoo, which I appreciate. When I apologized for being a pain in the ass, he told me it wasn't necessary - I'm the one that has to be happy with the end result. We even started brain storming for my next piece during this visit and he gave me a very reasonable quote to touch up the existing tattoo I already have.
Basically, as you can see from all the 5 star reviews, Insight Studios is awesome! I will be back for more ink. I've run out of body parts to pierce, but if I ever change my mind - I know where to go! I left with not just a tattoo, but with what I consider to be, a piece of art.
Thanks Mat and Insight!
P.S. I had to take a potty break while I was there and the restroom is equally as clean as the rest of the place. Impressive.
Inside my head...
::::hmmm, I should buy my friend Robert (he's a DJ), a "cover-up" tattoo for his bday, because that old one he's got is pretty crappy looking, and he'd like it.:::::
DING. You've got my mail.
To: Colleen C
From: http://GrouponChicago.com
Subject: $40 for $80 Toward Any Tattoo or Piercing @ Insight Studios
::::It's fate. Do it::::
So I did, zipped up a $80 Groupon for $40 to Insight Studios. Probably the most highly-rated tattoo shop on Yelp, over 100 reviews and a 5-star rating don't lie, yo.
::::Oops, have NO IDEA how this works::::
Get a guy on the phone, they say to just drop by with Robert, and we'll get 'em fixed up after a consult to see how much will need to cover, etc. Very friendly and helpful on the phone, I didn't know really what to expect...but maybe I thought they could JUST TELL that my virgin skinned self had NO IDEA of protocol, even over the phone. Well, regardless, they were nice to me. Props.
Jaunted over, easy parking (opposite side of street is non-metered, just watch for rush hour/street cleaning). Easy access of Milwaukee bus, or short walk from Division Blue Line.
Whoa, this place is like a surgical center for the alternative folks seeking ink medicine. I am fairly sure you could eat off the floor, this place is SPARKLY. Clean, even the germaphobes out there would be hard-pressed to go freak-style.
We picked out a design with Ryan (red-headed guy), who was SUPER nice. Totally random that we got him, LUCK. Non-obtrusive, helpful...and took great care of us. He's truly an artist, even though he looks super young (and cute!), but he did a great job. Covered the entire ugly little tattoo from a past life, and voila + gave good follow-up care instructions, and made sure to tell him that he could come back if there were any pale spots that uncovered in the next few weeks. STUD.
WHEN I go back to get mine (thinking seriously), he'll be the guy. For sure. It looks DREAMY. I mean, the tattoo.
http://www.insightstud...
$120 for a tattoo about a 4"x4" + $30 tip = very happy.
Plus, after you are done you can go get a chocolate cupcake at Lovely: A Bakeshop. Life doesn't get much better...serious. I wouldn't dream of going anywhere else, Groupon or not. (ps, Groupon...can you do that one again so I can go back!?) kthanks.
I've been talking about getting my nose pierced for, well, forever. So last night I decided to finally bite the bullet and just get it done already. While I'm still in my 20's. One quick Yelp search yielded the highly rated Insight Studios. And right in my neighborhood. Holla!
I really liked that the piercing area is very private. I know I was only getting a nostril pierced, but I would imagine that the privacy factor is a big selling point for someone piercing something a bit more, um, erotic.
Bob Jones, resident piercer at Insight, was the calm to my much frazzled nerves. He did a great job at pretending not to notice how neurotic I was acting about a simple nose piercing and really took his time explaining the piercing process, how to keep it clean, etc.
In case you're wondering, yes, it hurts. A lot. I just closed my eyes, harnessed my chi and got through it. Bob was great. He actually wiped my tearing eyes with cotton balls and gave me a Blow Pop when it was all over. Kind of like getting a shot at the doctor's office, eh?
So I skipped off after about 15 minutes with a goodie bag full of things to help my new piercing heal properly. I couldn't be happier with the results! Thanks Insight and Bob!
All of the reviews you read are correct. I've done a lot of research, because I have a few things I have been wanting to get done, and everywhere I turned...there was Insight Studios.
First experience was last night when I got my nose pierced. Bob helped me right away and there was no wait--completely unexpected. He didn't try to upsell me anything, and just said to make sure you get what you like since I can't change it for 4 months. The friend who was with asked him about her piercing, since she has a cheap nose ring...and has been concerned lately about it getting infected and rotting her nose off. He was honest, and said it wouldn't hurt to leave it in if she hasn't been having problems. He totally could have talked her into buying a new ring right then and there, and didn't. You can tell he really respects his customers, and has the mentality that if he treats people well and is honest, they will be back. Which is true.
So, to the piercing. We're sitting there talking, and it was done. He was quick, and while it wasn't completely painless (obvi) he was as smooth about it as I would think anyone could have been.
Clean, friendly, and as mentioned, got a blow pop at the end of it. I will be back.
Time for the extended review now!
You can read stacy y's review to get the back story (like how we wanted to get matching tattoos and BAM here comes Groupon with Insight Studios!)
This was my first tattoo, so I had no idea what to expect. I've only been inside of one other tattoo place - Jade Dragon. I think that's all I have to say.
Insight Studios is way beyond clean, and that is fantastic. I think the art and the way the whole place is set up is really fun.
My sister was set on Mat Moreno, and she knows slightly more than I do about tattoos, so I trusted her judgement. She made a fantastic choice! To copy her again, we gave him a few guidelines of what we wanted and otherwise let him run with it. The final product was MUCH different than I had imagined. And by different I mean better! Everyone that I've shown it to has loved it and immediately ask where I had it done, usually accompanied with an 'I'll have to check them out!'
To sum it up: if you are looking to modify your body in a permanent way, check out Insight Studios. I can't speak for any of the other guys, but definitely look at Mat Moreno, he's one talented dude.
I've also heard a hundred times over that Bob Jones is a piercing genius, but I can't say for myself. I'd bet it's true, though!
And for the price...it was pretty much half of what I expected to pay. The Groupon was a huge bonus, but I'll be looking to Insight when I'm ready for more tattoos.
I just got my first tattoo last night at Insight, and it's amazing! The lines are straight and bold- he took his time and you can definitely tell. My artist was Ryan - the lanky redhead dude who can out-nerd pretty much anyone when it comes to Star Wars and superheroes. He has an awesomely dry sense of humor that I bet a ton of people completely miss. The session lasted about 4.5 hours, but it went by in a flash because I was having such a great time!
I'm going back in a month to get some more work done, and I can't wait. They are extremely fair with their pricing, so remember to tip your artist/piercer!
Best tattoo studio in Chicago in my opinion. A great mix of different artists capable of putting out some incredible work. Very clean and a great atmosphere.
If you are looking to get tattooed or pierced you can't go wrong at Insight Studios.
Fantastic experience. I didn't do my research on getting a tattoo before I actually got one and ended up with botched, unfinished work. When the studio that did the work refused to finish it, I went looking for somewhere else.
My hairdresser hooked me up with Rodney Taylor (sadly no longer at Insight) and I went to see him about fixing my penny tattoo. Insight was VERY clean, Rodney was interesting to talk to, he's done a lot of the cooks from Trotter's and talking food was fun for me. Great music played during my session and all in all the work took about an hour, he fixed the color and even the misspelled words on my tattoo.
Even though Rodney is not at Insight, I would still go back for another tattoo. The place sparkles and the artists are pleasant to talk to as opposed to being gruff and uninterested, no pretension whatsoever.
I ended up getting pierced again and wanted to wait to write another review.
My piercings healed with NO problem whatsoever. Maybe I'm a fast healer? Or just got a really good piercing guy....
=)
what to do next.....
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/15/2009
i just got pierced
i sure did yelp!
but i lived
this isn't my first and i have a few tattoos
i was still… Read more »
i went to insight after work on friday, october 23rd, to get my tongue pierced. i had previously emailed bob jones (piercer) to find out a little more information and he responded to me very quickly and was very helpful. based on that, the great reviews i'd seen, and the fact that bob is APP certified, i decided to let him do my tongue piercing. when i arrived, the place was great because it was bright and obviously very clean and sterile. bob made me feel comfortable and assured me the tongue piercing was not a big deal (i was extremely nervous!). he did the prep work and the took me back and answered my questions. he marked the spot on my tongue and let me look at it to make sure i was okay with it. the piercing itself did not hurt at all and bob talked me through the whole process. he was very comforting and reassuring and made me feel a little better (i don't think anything except lots of vicodin could have made me feel 100% better!). afterwards i was feeling a little faint but bob was great, once again. he let me lie down and brought me juice and wet, cold towels. and he let me lie there as long as i needed. i was a tad embarrassed but he assured me it was nothing....which made me feel okay!
i would highly, highly recommend bob at insight. oh, and i am going back there for my next tattoo as well.
All I have to say is Bob Jones is awesome.
I was having a bad month to say the least. I decided on a whim to do something for my self so I got a piercing.
I called insight at 10:30 and he told me that they closed at 10 but since I just was getting a piercing they would wait!
That was soo nice of him! I got there in 15/ 20 mins and he was all set for me.
He explained everything and I was completely at ease! It was a great experience and I would recommend him to anyone. I will for sure go back! I just have to decide what to get.
What can I say that overwhelming 5-star reviews haven't already correctly stated? I came in with my roommate. She got her first tattoo by Brian and was thoroughly excited about it for the rest of the night. So, it goes without saying that it was a really positive first tattoo experience for her. When it comes to your first, if you get an asshole it can somewhat ruin the experience, but all of the guys at the place seemed like good 'uns.
I got my nose pierced by the cat-loving Bob Jones. It was quick and painless. He was good about explanations and dealing with my barrage of questions. And, since I'm moving away from Chicago soon, offered to send me information about a piercing artist he knows where I am moving to.
Ultimately, this was my first body modification experience outside of the one place I went to for all of my tattoos and piercings that's 1,000 miles away, and I was immediately comfortable with the environment, services, and people who worked there. And that's saying something.
Ive known Bob Jones for a few years now and he is the only one I would ever allow to poke a hole in me. He is professional, friendly, and always makes people feel 100% at ease. He explains everything with detail and doesn't do anything unless you comfortable with it.
The tattoo artists are also, by far, some of the most talented in the city of Chicago. They are all about custom tattoos so that your tattoo is 100% original. They are also incredibly friendly and also make sure you are comfortable the entire time they are working on you.
Both the artists and Bob explain the aftercare in full detail and make sure you don't leave with any questions.
I have been going there for about 3 years now and I would, and do, tell everyone I know to go there.
I got my first tattoo yesterday evening and I couldn't have had a better experience.
I'd visited Insight twice before as moral support/chauffeur and I've lost count of how many times it's been recommended to me. They also have a booth at Loyola's annual Health & Wellness fair. How many tattoo and piercing businesses can say they've done that?
I didn't have to wait long at all to talk to Ryan, my tattoo artist. I was just getting two words on the inside of my wrist and had brought in a copy of exactly what font I wanted it in, so it took him no time at all to make the transfer. Ryan was professional, he humored my nervous jabbering, he let my friend sit with me, and he even cracked a few quiet jokes.
The whole visit lasted about 30-40 minutes, and the tattoo itself only took about 10 (maybe less, I forgot to time it). With the $10 discount just from mentioning Yelp, the tattoo only cost $50 plus a tip.
My first tattoo experience could not have been better. I'm so happy I did it, and I'm glad I went to Insight.
I had my nose pierced here in March 2009. Bob did an excellent job and was very understanding throughout the whole process. He is a very friendly, professional piercer. When I developed the famous "bump" on top of my piercing, a quick call to Bob got me numerous solutions for the problem.
The studio is clean, light and very nice. I would feel comfortable getting a tattoo here and other piercings. The only reason this place is 4 stars instead of 5 is because of the price. My piercing seemed a little expensive, but since the service was great and the jewelry is beautiful, it was worth it to me.
Clean, professional, courteous, and comfortable atmosphere. The only reason I don't plan to return here for a tattoo is because my tattoo artist left there (on good terms). I still recommend it frequently though, and if I ever decide to get another piercing, I won't think twice about where I'm going... Insight all the way.
Oh... and did I mention they have weekends benefiting Anti-Cruelty? How beyond cool is that?
This is coming from a tattoo noob, but I can't imagine anything better than this.
After reading the glowing reviews here, I stopped in at Insight, and Mat Moreno consulted with me about my concept and described the process. As others have noted, the shop is very modern, bright and clean.
I had to wait a week to get an appointment for the actual inking, but it was well worth the wait. Mat created the most beautiful design (and even emailed me a draft and exchanged emails on ideas and changes). He's superbly talented and (though he's a naturally reserved person) made an effort to chat and joke through the work. It was actually a pretty fun way to spend 3+ hours of exquisite pain. The execution was perfect, and it's healing up very quickly.
I really recommend Mat for custom work--his talents shouldn't be wasted on anything less!
