Harley Haslem

Art has always been the focus of my existence for as long as I can remember. Finger painting, drawing on walls with crayons and eating Play-Do, and on through high school art, lead to a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Montana. A lifetime of art and training has lead to a career in the tattoo industry, for which I couldn’t be happier. I’ve been tattooing for 15 years, with Cartel Ink Works being my third and final shop of residence. With my family here at Cartel, travels and conventions have become a big part of my life.

Through the process of tattooing, I take my inspiration almost solely from the client, with nearly all of the design process happening on the day of the tattoo. Using an ‘on the spot’ method for creation helps to involve the client deeply in the process. Most work is drawn on the body with input from the client helping to guide the idea to fruition. I enjoy working with nearly any type of image, most importantly I enjoy working with the person and their ideas for sharing who they are with the world. When not busy tattooing, I spend my free time with my family. I continue my art studies through the exploration of the world that is Watercolors.

Awards: ‘Best of Show’ 2010’ Oregon Ink Tattoo Convention Eugene, OR “Danny Dringenberg Award” “Best of Day, Sunday’ 2010’ Oregon Ink Tattoo Convention, Portland, OR


harley@cartelinkworks.com