My favorite part about the writing work that I do, besides getting to enjoy the beautiful artwork and tattoos that I encounter, is meeting the incredible people behind the paintbrushes and machines. I constantly marvel at how lucky I am to cross paths with such generous and accomplished beings, and this could not be more true when it comes to the one-and-only Jay Wheeler.

I was lucky enough to interview Jay a few years ago while working on the Tattoo Prodigies book and we have kept in touch ever since, chatting about everything from artwork to running and workout regimens. A year or so ago, he graciously did an Inkerview for the site, where I got to ask him some questions, and present his creative genius and stellar array of tattoo accomplishments. If you missed it, be sure to check it out and read all about him here.

Jay and his lovely wife Lori reside in Southeast Michigan, where he works at Eternal Tattoos, in Livonia - one of the five world-renowned Eternal locations. With a diverse ability to work within so many tattoo genres, it’s easy to see why he has such loyal clients and global recognition and respect. While hailed as a black and gray portraiture maestro, just take a look at his color work and exquisite attention to detail and you won’t be able to choose which of the "Wheeler styles" is your favorite.

Since it’s been awhile since his work has run on the site, and I am of the opinion that we should always revisit a “good thing,” I figured it was time to feature an Artist Spotlight on Mr. Wheeler and update readers with some of the inspirational and outstanding work that is synonymous with his name. Featured below are some of Jay's recently completed tattoo projects.

Be sure to visit Jay’s sleek, updated website to enjoy a wide array of his talents and to keep up with his latest accomplishments. You’ll be glad you did!

Bonus: Revisiting A Few Alex Grey Tattoos by Jay Wheeler

Last updated on March 4, 2011 by Jinxi Boo