One of The Best Tattoo Artists in Milwaukee
Mike Davenport, AKA Pure Gold Tattoos
My Philosophy
I Honor Your Story and Help You Show It With Pride
I believe everyone is entitled to live their lives, express themselves, and be respected. Tattoos, for me, are more than just art. They’re a way to capture experiences that make us who we are and a powerful way to shape where our story will go. They’re a testament to our freedom to remember, to reimagine, and to wear our stories with pride.
I also believe tattoos should be a part of you, seamlessly integrated into your skin and flowing with your body so well, it feels like it’s a part of you. Not just a sticker placed on top. My approach ensures that every tattoo tells a story (even if it’s just a symbol that you think looks cool, it says something) resonates deeply with the wearer, and becomes a source of power to their human spirit.
Even if it’s just a cool-looking design like a classic wolfhead with a dagger through it, that’s the power of tattooing. You get to decide who you are in the world. It’s easy to forget the essence of this craft. It’s a privilege to be a part of your story, to give life to your ideas, and to ensure that the experience is as positive and powerful as the tattoo itself.
Do you like my ethos and what you see in my tattoo portfolio?
Use the form on my website to share your idea. I’ll turn it into a tattoo masterpiece that you’ll be proud of for life.
Reviews From My Tattoo Clients
What My Clients Say About ME & My Work
How To Contact Me About Your New Tattoo
Reach Out Or Stop In
From our first chat, whether it’s through a text, email, or direct message, I prioritize clear communication and efficiency. I value your time, which is why I ensure the communication and booking process is seamless. You’ll find how I do things puts you at ease and makes the tattoo process enjoyable and the final product above and beyond your expectations.
You can walk into the shop—though if you’re positive you want to work with me, it’s best to reach out to me here first. But if you’re itching to get in ASAP or you’re already in the neighborhood and want to stop by, feel free to. It’s likely I’ll be tattooing, but I’m happy to speak with you and there are other great artists at the shop as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions people ask me.
Every tattoo I create is unique and rates vary. My baseline is $200 per hour. But if you want something big, I may offer a set price instead of charging hourly. If you‘re looking for a small traditional piece, I may price that without an hourly minimum. I‘m happy to provide a cost estimate after you share your idea here. You can also shoot me a text at (414) 208-1056 with details of what you’re after.
Once we’re on the same page, I’ll give you a link to get on my calendar. As a client, you’ll be able to schedule with me using that link moving forward, but it’s important for us to discuss every new tattoo in advance.
I work Tuesday to Saturday from noon to 8 PM.
While I’m often booked out for weeks or longer, there might be opportunities to fit you in sooner, especially if you’re flexible. I keep a cancellation list, which can be a way to get an earlier slot. And I never book more than 90 days out, even during the busy season, so you won’t have to wait endlessly. If you’re in a hurry to get started, just reach out, share your idea, and we can discuss my availability.
Yes, I’m certified in bloodborne pathogens, and everyone at the shop goes beyond state requirements to ensure client safety. Both the shop and my workstation keep the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
I’ve even heard from others in the shop that agents from the health department have trained new staff by stopping in on us to show them what a clean shop looks like before they start going to others to do inspections. While that’s just what I’ve heard and I don’t know if it’s true, it makes sense to me. I’ve worked at quite a few shops and done guest spots at dozens. We really are a lot cleaner than most.
I believe in a minimalistic approach to aftercare. Often, I’ll apply a surgical bandage (Saniderm) to protect the tattoo for the initial days or first week. However, this might not always be the case, especially if you’re returning quickly for another session. Beyond that, additional products can be unnecessary and might even cause problems. Most of my clients find the aftercare process straightforward, but I’m always here to guide you and ensure you’re confident in your aftercare routine.
If you have a tattoo you like, that’s a good starting point. I appreciate the inspiration, but I won’t directly copy someone else’s work. We can use the elements within that tattoo and draw something similar that’s going to be custom to you. What the final tattoo looks like also depends on where it will be on you. Great tattoos are always composed with the specific flow and space of the body part in mind.
If you like my work and trust my professional judgment, bring me whatever inspiration you have and we’ll make a cool tattoo you will love.
Definitely. Respect and professionalism are at the core of my approach. If you’re curious about the experience of getting a tattoo from me, I encourage you to read my tattoo client reviews. From our initial consultation to the final session, communication will be open, prompt, and professional. I always prioritize my clients’ comfort and ensure a seamless, low-stress experience.
Please arrive rested and refreshed. I recommend that you do not drink the night before, do get a solid night’s rest, and come in well-fed and hydrated. Bring anything that will help you be comfortable, like headphones and stuff to watch or listen to (you might really want them for a longer session), a blanket or hoodie to keep warm, a friend if it’ll help you (though they might get bored), snacks, drinks, etc.
There’s no need to come early. Showing up on time (or just a few minutes ahead of schedule) gives me the time to dial in the design before you arrive, then gives us both the time to make sure it’s perfect before we sit you in the chair to start tattooing.
I prioritize using equipment and inks that have stood the test of time and have been industry-approved. I won’t experiment with untested products on my clients. I use what works. Most inks are mineral-based and dissolved in solutions like rose water to try and keep the skin from rejecting it.
Bottom line, my priority is making cool tattoos that look awesome forever, and I don’t cut corners when it comes to that. I don’t worry about anything other than whether it has a reputation for that. It makes my job harder if I use inferior materials, so I use the stuff that is known for consistently helping make high-quality tattoos.
