Robert Berry: The Pioneering Force Behind 7th Street Tattoos
From the humble beginnings of a one-man operation to a thriving institution, Robert Berry’s 7th Street Tattoos has left an indelible mark on Little Rock, Arkansas. Berry, now 67, entered the world of tattooing in his 40s after leaving the advertising and prepress industries. This unique background brought a much-needed focus on customer service and modern payment methods, setting Berry’s shop apart from the seedy, cash-only establishments that once dominated the scene.
Over the years, 7th Street Tattoos has expanded, both in size and reputation. The original location at 1009 W. Seventh St. quickly became too small, leading to two expansions into neighboring rooms and ultimately a move to 814 W. Seventh St. in 2011. Today, the shop boasts 13 talented artists, including Berry’s four children, who are employed in various capacities.
Berry’s dedication to the craft is unwavering. With a goal of tattooing until his final days, he envisions a perfect ending: “My fantasy is that I do a tattoo, tell a joke, they laugh, I wipe the tattoo off and I drop dead.” This unyielding passion has earned 7th Street Tattoos the top spot in the “Best of Arkansas” poll for the past five years, a testament to the shop’s enduring popularity.
For those who cross Berry’s path, his work extends beyond the confines of the tattoo shop. He embodies a spirit that celebrates human connection, as seen in the stories of those who have been touched by his art. The permanence of his tattoos symbolizes the lasting bonds people seek to commemorate on their bodies.
The world of tattoos is one of permanence, and Robert Berry’s legacy at 7th Street Tattoos is a shining example of how that ethos transcends the art form itself. As long as Berry keeps tattooing, the memories and connections etched onto the bodies of his clients will continue to resonate, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
