Daily Inspiration: Meet Durb Morrison

Today we’d like to introduce you to Durb Morrison

Hi Durb, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Durb Morrison, a veteran tattoo artist with over 34 years of experience, having started my journey back in 1990. I own RedTree Tattoo Gallery in Columbus, Ohio, where I not only work with incredible clients but also organize the renowned Hell City Tattoo Fest. This event has become a favorite within the tattoo community, drawing artists and enthusiasts alike to Columbus, Ohio, and Phoenix, Arizona. My career has allowed me to explore a strong new-school neo-traditional style with rich, painterly colors, which has led to international recognition, publications, and awards. In addition to RedTree, I also own Ohio’s largest tattoo studio and True Tattoo Supply, the state’s leading tattoo supply company. I’m proud to be the inventor behind True Tubes and True Grips, tools designed with the tattoo artist’s comfort and precision in mind. I also write for Tattoo Magazine, where I interview fellow artists, sharing insights and perspectives from my years in the industry. As someone deeply committed to giving back, I offer an educational seminar called “Longevity of the Tattoo Artist.” In this course, I teach healthy, preventive techniques to help artists sustain their careers by staying strong, flexible, and mindful of their bodies over the years. Whether I’m creating art, managing Hell City, or working on projects for True Tattoo Supply, I’m dedicated to advancing the tattoo industry and supporting the artist community.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Obstacles and challenges for an artist, especially in the tattoo industry, go beyond simply honing technical skills; they lie in the journey of continually growing, evolving, and expanding one’s artistic knowledge and creative abilities. As tattoo artists, we’re constantly pushing ourselves to learn new techniques, explore different styles, and experiment with diverse mediums and concepts. It’s essential to keep an open mind, continuously challenging our comfort zones to ensure that we’re not only improving but also offering fresh, innovative work that reflects our unique perspectives and talents. For me, every tattoo is a chance to create something meaningful, and that requires a relentless commitment to artistic growth.

One of the biggest challenges in the tattoo world, particularly early in my career, was working toward the acceptance of tattooing as a legitimate art form. Over the years, I’ve put a lot of effort into educating people about the artistry, skill, and dedication behind tattoos. There was a time when tattoos were often misunderstood, judged, or viewed as rebellious acts rather than expressions of art and identity. It’s been incredible to witness and contribute to the shift in perception, showing people that tattoos are not only personal and profound but also rooted in rich cultural histories and artistic techniques that deserve respect.

Another important focus has been helping clients understand the tattoo process and make informed decisions about their body art. It’s a collaborative experience, and when clients are well-informed, they’re able to make decisions that lead to both a better tattoo and a more rewarding overall experience. On top of that, there’s the challenge of helping other tattoo artists expand their careers and find longevity in an industry that can be physically and mentally demanding.

Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about giving back to the tattoo community, not only through organizing conventions like Hell City but also through mentoring and educating. I developed my seminar, “Longevity of the Tattoo Artist,” to teach artists how to take care of themselves physically and mentally, ensuring that they have the strength, flexibility, and endurance to continue working in a healthy, sustainable way. I believe it’s essential to create a culture where artists support each other, learn from each other, and help elevate the industry as a whole.
These challenges are part of what makes this journey rewarding. It’s about pushing boundaries, fostering a deeper understanding of tattooing as art, and building a supportive community for both artists and clients. The growth, the obstacles, and the constant evolution are what keep me inspired and dedicated to my work every day.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’d say my style in tattooing is a unique blend of traditional techniques with a painterly twist, giving my work a rich, vibrant look that feels almost like a painting on skin. I draw a lot of inspiration from classic tattoo styles but add my own touch with bold, saturated colors and meticulous attention to detail. I’m particularly drawn to Japanese-inspired artwork—the symbolism, the flowing lines, and the intricate designs offer endless creative possibilities that resonate with me. Color tattooing is where I feel I can bring the most impact, letting me fully express the depth and complexity of my vision. But I’m not opposed to black and gray tattoos; I think every piece of art has its own story and mood, and sometimes that story is best told in shades of black and gray.

My approach to painting is very different from my tattooing. Tattooing is a collaborative process that requires precision, control, and a steady hand because each line and color must be meticulously planned to meet the client’s vision. Painting, on the other hand, is my space to break free, to create something solely for myself or for whoever connects with the piece. There’s a certain freedom in painting—a chance to explore looser forms and textures that I might not get to experiment with on skin. Unlike tattooing, where I work closely with a client, painting is a deeply personal process where I can explore new ideas, emotions, and techniques. It’s almost therapeutic, allowing me to pour my thoughts and feelings onto the canvas without limitations or expectations.

Over the years, I’ve also experimented with a wide range of art forms, and each one has offered me a new perspective. Metal and wood sculpture, for instance, brought me closer to the tactile, physical side of creating art—working with these materials taught me about structure, balance, and form in a way that translates even into my tattoo work. I’ve also done clay sculpture, which is incredibly grounding and meditative. It’s all about shaping and refining with your hands, bringing something raw and organic to life.

In addition, I’ve always loved creating watercolor tattoo flash, using Prisma color pencils, and working with acrylics and oils. Each medium has its own language, and the techniques I’ve learned from these various art forms have given me a broader toolkit to draw from in my tattoo work. Watercolor taught me about softness and blending, Prisma colors about layering and depth, and oils gave me a sense of richness and texture that’s hard to achieve in other mediums.

Exploring these different forms of art has allowed me to express myself in unique ways and has given me a creative depth that I bring into each tattoo and painting. Whether I’m working on skin or canvas, metal or clay, each medium brings its own challenges and joys, helping me grow as an artist and push the boundaries of what I can create. Through every piece I make, I’m constantly learning, evolving, and finding new ways to share my vision with the world.

What are your plans for the future?
Looking to the future, my plans are all about pushing boundaries and deepening my contributions to the tattoo industry. I want to continue creating original artwork, from tattoos to paintings. Recently, my paintings have gained more interest, which has been incredibly rewarding. Each piece I create feels like a new way to connect with people, both on and off the skin. Tattooing will always be my primary passion, but expanding into different forms of art keeps my creativity fresh and allows me to explore new dimensions of my artistic voice.

Traveling is also a huge part of my plans. While I’ve been fortunate to tattoo around the world, there are still so many places and cultures I haven’t yet explored. Each new location introduces me to different artistic influences and styles, which in turn inspire my work and help me grow as an artist. There’s something special about tattooing in new countries, connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, and leaving my mark on those who carry a piece of my art wherever they go.

Supporting and educating other tattoo artists is equally important to me. I’ve spent years developing methods to help artists extend their careers through physical and mental wellness. Tattooing is an incredibly demanding field, and I want to help other artists understand the importance of taking care of themselves in every sense. My “Longevity of the Tattoo Artist” seminar focuses on techniques and practices that promote strength, flexibility, and mental resilience, which are crucial for a sustainable career. I plan to expand these educational efforts, potentially through more seminars, workshops, and even online resources, so more artists can benefit from what I’ve learned over the years.

Another area I’m passionate about is innovation. The tattoo industry has evolved so much, and I believe we’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible with tattoo equipment and supplies. Through True Tattoo Supply, I’m developing a range of new products designed to improve the tattooing experience for artists. These are products that haven’t been seen before in the industry, and my goal is to create tools that enhance both the quality of work and the comfort of artists as they tattoo. I’m constantly exploring new ideas and refining concepts, working to make tools that are practical, ergonomic, and tailored to the real needs of tattoo artists.

In many ways, my future plans are about leaving a lasting legacy within the tattoo industry, not only through the art I create but also through the support, education, and innovation I bring to other artists. There’s still so much to accomplish, and I’m excited to see where the next steps take me. Whether it’s a new painting, a groundbreaking product, or a workshop that helps an artist extend their career, my goal is to keep contributing to this incredible art form and inspiring others along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.durbmorrison.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/durbmorrison
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/durbmorrison/
• Twitter: https://x.com/DurbMorrison
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/DurbMorrison
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/red-tree-tattoo-gallery-columbus
• Other: www.hellcity.com / www.redtreetattoo.com / www.truetattoosupply.com