Henry Kistenmacher has been a professional shop artist for the last five years locally here in Grass Valley. His art is not limited to his custom tattoo work, but is well rounded in painting, sculpting (metal or wood), airbrush and glass etching.

Henry was born in Santa Rosa California. At an early age he was emerced into his father's wood shop, and mother's painting. Constantly around a variety of art forms taught him that all forms require different skill sets. Though comfortable in these artforms, he was always looking for something that fit. At the age of 18, getting his first tattoo, he knew what it was. After a few years trying to learn in sonoma county he was given an oppertunity to learn in a shop in the Northern Foothills.

It was at a small shop in Grass Valley where his apprenticeship started. Learning sterilization safe practices and traditional tattooing. After a short apprenticeship, he wanted to learn more of his new trade and different styles started to branch out learning from a variety of artists.

Now at SHOOTING INK tattoo and piercing, Henry specializes in bright cartoon (color-bomb) pieces, and detailed custom work in both grey-scale and color pigments. Constantly absorbing new techniques and making them his own, his range of work is continualy growing.

Henry lives locally in Grass Valley with his wife Tiffany, and new born daughter Olivia. He is available for appointments or walk-ins at SHOOTING INK tattoo and piercing, tuesday through saturday from ten am. to seven pm. He is also available by appointment only on sunday.