Who we are
Grimm Tattoo® and the Bert Grimm Tattoo Museum in Kansas City** proudly carry on the legacy of Bert Grimm, the godfather of modern tattooing. For four generations, the Grimm family name has been synonymous with bold, innovative, and revolutionary artistry, and we are committed to preserving this rich history. Our team of highly skilled artists creates one-of-a-kind tattoos, delivering permanent artistic statements that honor the tradition of quality and creativity established by Bert Grimm himself.
Tattooing has been around for thousands of years, but Bert Grimm and the artists who studied his work revolutionized public perception, bringing tattoos into the mainstream. Today, we continue that legacy, offering exceptional body art seven days a week. Whether you're seeking a unique design or a piece that connects with tattoo history, Grimm Tattoo® and the Bert Grimm Tattoo Museum remain dedicated to innovation and artistry, second to none in Kansas City and beyond.
Bert Grimm
Bert Grimm is widely regarded as a pioneer in the world of tattooing, earning him the title of "godfather of modern tattoos." His journey into tattooing began at an early age, with exposure to tattoo shops when he was just 12 years old. By the time he was 15, he already had his own tattoo machine, marking the beginning of his lifelong career.
During an era when tattooing was mainly associated with soldiers, sailors, and sideshows, Bert developed his distinctive style, known for its bold lines and vibrant colors, which helped shape the traditional American tattoo style. Learning from influential tattooists in Portland, OR, like Sailor Gus, Sailor George, and Charlie Western, Bert honed his craft. Over the span of 70 years, he played a crucial role in bringing tattoo art into the mainstream, contributing to its evolution into the respected form of expression it is today.
Bert Grimm's early years with the Buffalo Bill Wild West Show provided him with a unique platform to refine his tattooing skills, traveling with the show and gaining exposure to diverse audiences. His time with the show helped solidify his reputation, and he eventually established tattoo shops in major cities across the United States, including Chicago, Honolulu, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Seattle, Los Angeles, Long Beach, St. Louis, Portland, and Seaside, Oregon. His reach even extended internationally to China.
Throughout his career, Bert became known for his innovative and artistic approach to tattooing, setting him apart from others of his time. He was rumored to have tattooed several iconic figures from American history, including infamous outlaws like Bonnie and Clyde and Pretty Boy Floyd, along with other notable personalities. These stories further cemented his legendary status in the world of tattoo art, making him a key figure in the evolution of modern tattooing.
Bert Grimm's tattoo work stood out for its depth, defined lines, and contour shading—techniques that were groundbreaking at a time when most tattoo artists focused on simpler, flatter designs. His innovative approach attracted people from hundreds of miles away, drawn to the exceptional quality of his inked art. Bert prided himself on being a "self-made man," often sharing his journey and experiences with his customers while working on their tattoos.
Even in his later years, Bert's dedication to his craft remained unwavering, as he continued tattooing until just two weeks before his death in 1985 at the age of 85. His legacy not only lives on through the countless tattoos he created but also through the tattoo shop in Kansas City and the Bert Grimm Tattoo Museum. These institutions preserve his contributions to the tattoo world, ensuring that his influence on modern tattoo artistry endures.
At Grimm Tattoo® and the Bert Grimm Tattoo Museum in Kansas City, you're continuing a powerful legacy by upholding Bert Grimm’s standard of excellence in tattoo artistry. It’s great to see how your artists stay connected to his history, ensuring that each tattoo reflects the skill and creativity that made Bert a legendary figure in the world of body art.
