For as long as Brian Hoffmann can remember he’s been an artist. He has always enjoyed creating visual images and is now able to make a living by pursuing his passion for art. The owner of Broadway Tattoo, Hoffmann uses the human body as a canvas for his artistic expression. He takes great pride in all of his work, but the creation Hoffmann enjoys the most is the smiles on the customer’s faces.
The choice to mark one’s body with a tattoo is a personal one, which Hoffmann is honored to be a part of. Tattoos often represent something joyful or tragic in an individual’s life and Hoffmann’s artistry will be forever imprinted upon their skin. “I love putting ink into people. It’s very gratifying, especially when the tattoo is meaningful to them. You sometimes hear some really sad stories,” said Hoffmann.
A Bethel resident, Hoffmann had wanted his business in Tipp City as he loves the community and wanted to keep the money local. After working as a custodian for Huber Heights City Schools for 9 years, he decided to fill the void in his life. Hoffmann wasn’t happy and returned to art in order to find fulfillment.
In July it will be two years since Broadway Tattoo opened, and Hoffmann is thankful every day for the opportunity bestowed upon him. “I’m so blessed to be able to do what I love to do,” he said.
The first location that Hoffmann looked at was on Broadway, before the building on 25A became available. Since he’d already come up with and liked the name of Broadway Tattoo, Hoffman decided to keep it.
Broadway Tattoo is a full service shop that can fill any tattoo need from cover-ups, which is his specialty, to finger tattoos to full back pieces. Hoffmann is also dedicated to keeping the prices very reasonable and much more affordable than the name brand parlors. “We offer the best prices. Tattoos aren’t a necessity, they are a luxury, but I’m not going to take advantage of that,” said Hoffman.
A second skilled artist in the shop is Joe Dykes. Both Hoffmann and Dykes share a love for art and are devoted family men. Each are married, with children, and put their families first. The business is closed on Sundays and Mondays, except for special requests, so time can be spent with their families.
Much effort is given to create a comfortable atmosphere in Broadway Tattoo to help the clients feel at ease. Hoffmann and Dykes will also take all the time that’s needed to work with the client in designing the piece that best fits their vision. “We like to keep it personable in here to build relationships with the clients so they will be satisfied and want to come back,” said Hoffmann.
For those a little scared about the pain of getting a tattoo, Hoffmann is patient and coaxes them through it. “The best analogy I can use is imagine having a sunburn and having a cat scratch it. It hurts, but it’s bearable,” he said. “After we’re done the client says, ‘That wasn’t so bad,’ and is back again in a couple weeks to get another one.”
With his father retired from the Air Force, Hoffmann has a special appreciation for those in the military. To honor those who have served, anyone who either currently or ever has served in any branch of the military, as well as the police and first responders, receives a 20% discount. “They take care of us, so we have to take care of them,” he said.
Located at 5222 S. County Rd. 25 A, Broadway Tattoo is open Tuesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
