Kandyman Joe has always been a bit rebellious when it comes to art. Unbound by the status quo, and volume-oriented street shops of his past, Joe's goal is excellent custom tattoos for his clients. He is known for this passionate pursuit of excellence since his career began eight years ago. Joe is always learning and applying new levels of technique and design to his award winning work.

Joe attended the University of North Texas, and Tarrant County College. He holds an AA degree, which he completed during his apprenticeship in Texas under the guidance of his high school friend, Elvis Crocker (formerly of Jonathan Shaw's Fun City Tattoo, and New York Hardcore Tattoo owned by members of Murphy's Law and Agnostic Front and currently at Chili's Red Hot Tattoo in Arlington, TX).

He has worked in all kinds of shops and conventions all over the country, primarily in the Midwest, South, and on the East coast. For Pure Imagination Tattoos, Joe envisioned an art oriented studio and gallery, that was accessible, clean, and friendly. He has always expected more out of his studio than the typical "biker's only" parlor atmosphere. He strives every day to make sure people from all walks of life to feel comfortable in the studio, from bikers, to businesspeople, to families. His crew does this by being themselves, and keeping the shop's energy fun and edgy.

Technology is in Joe's blood. He is always updating the studio, procedures, and the equipment used. He is one of the first artists in Iowa to make the switch to a fully autoclavable tattoo machine.

And if you vere wondering about Joe's nickname... ask to see the Wonka tattoo, by Elvis, on his leg.