From left to right: Hunter Gatherer shop manager Dominick Caswell and tattoo artists Josh Anderson, Zack Traum and Mike Munter (Photo by Mike Lyons/West Philly Local).
In November, we reported that plans to bring a tattoo studio to 4510 Walnut Street were in the works, becoming the latest business to occupy the revolving storefront.
Well, readers, turns out those plans become a reality two weeks ago, when Hunter Gatherer Tattoo (Facebook page) open its doors. Co-owned by tattoo artist Josh Anderson and Falls Taproom owner Marvin Graaf, Hunter Gatherer Tattoo becomes the third tattoo shop to operate in West Philly.
Hunter Gatherer, which is open seven days a week, specializes in traditional and neo-traditional designs with an illustrative focus, said Anderson. Anderson, 33, serves as the shop’s main artist, working every day to get Hunter Gatherer “off the ground and going.” Tattoo artists Mike Munter and Zack Traum also work out of the studio on a rotating schedule, with Dominick Caswell acting as shop manager.
So far, business has been good and “super positive” for the tattoo studio, with the community showing “nothing but great support,” Anderson said. Once the weather breaks, the owners plan to host a grand opening party with an art show featuring local artists, a private DJ, and food and drinks.
Hunter Gatherer Tattoo (Photo by Annamarya Scaccia / West Philly Local)
With Hunter Gatherer, Anderson said he wants to set it apart from the studios typical of South Street or in Brooklyn — two “touristy” places he’s worked where customers are rarely repeat. Instead, he prefers a relaxed atmosphere where he can make “all the artists happy and all the clientele happy.”
Much of the woodwork in the shop—a space that has been many things over the years and most recently an art gallery—was made from reclaimed wood pallets that Anderson and others cut and fitted together. The repurposing of materials, as well as Graaf and Anderson’s childhoods in big hunting and fishing towns, are much of why the shop is named Hunter Gatherer, Anderson said.
“I was getting sick of just having that whole hustle, bustle, not really get to know anyone. My clientele there, you never really saw them again,” Anderson, who’s worked as a tattooist for over a decade, told West Philly Local. “I’d like to develop a relationship with my clientele.
“We’re just trying to create a nice space for everybody to come and see, and get tattooed, that has a good vibe and environment.”
Hunter Gatherer Tattoo is open Mondays to Thursdays from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays & Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Walk-ins and appointments available. For more information, call 267-233-7015.
-Annamarya Scaccia
Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that Dominick Caswell is a tattoo artist. He is the shop manager. We regret the error.
March 8th, 2014 at 8:54 am
Hunter Gatherer was open less than a week when I had my first tattoo, at this location. I have been a long-standing customer of Josh Anderson and have followed him from shop to shop, as his career developed. I am so happy to see him in his own shop. I wish Josh and his partners the best of luck in their venture.
Josh’s work is excellent and very professional. Hunter Gather is three hours from my home but I consistently make the drive to see Josh. I have a variety of art from classic Japanese style, portraits, and new school. Josh can tattoo any style with great competence. He is equally versed in both color and black & grey. Whether you bring in your own art work or let the guys at Hunter Gather work up an original piece, you won’t be disappointed. If you are serious about a professional tattoo experience get your butt to Hunter Gatherer. The guys will not disappoint.
March 13th, 2014 at 5:12 pm
I have followed Josh from Scranton to Perkasie & now I’m going to Philly! His work is fantastic! Which is why I’ll be driving 2 hours to get my tattoo. I can’t wait to see the shop. Best of luck to Josh & all the artists at Hunter Gatherer Tattoo.
March 21st, 2014 at 10:22 pm
Here’s the Yelp review I wrote after getting a tattoo this week at Hunter Gatherer, just in case anyone’s interested:
Yesterday, I stopped in to discuss an idea I had for adding to an existing tattoo. Dom and Zach were immediately super friendly and accommodating of my ideas. Generally, they said making appointments works best for tattoo appointments, but Zach had some time and was able to take me on as a walk-in client. I was blown away when he showed what he had sketched up based on my ideas – his experience was evident when he completely understood the aesthetic and style I was going for. Zach was meticulous about hygiene and was obviously very focused on the work during my tattoo. He was understanding of my budget and did an incredible amount of work for a very reasonable price. Dom and Mike were organizing the shop while I was getting tattooed, were hilarious, and made the whole experience really fun.
Hunter Gatherer is an great new addition to our neighborhood, and I’d recommend them to anyone without hesitation.
Tip: Bring cash! There’s an ATM in Saad’s Halal on the corner of 45/Walnut with only $1 ATM fee.