BUILT BY FAMILY. SHAPED BY EXPERIENCE.
TWO BROTHERS. ONE STUDIO. ESTABLISHED 2004.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN.
Hollywood Stars Tattoo began long before its doors opened in December 2004.
For Erik Gutierrez, tattooing started at just 13 years old. Growing up in Los Angeles, he spent years drawing, experimenting with homemade tattoo equipment, and developing a passion that would eventually become his life’s work.
At 20, Erik joined the United States Marine Corps, but his tattooing never stopped. From boot camp through his final days of service, he continued developing his craft.
In 1998, while still serving, Erik designed the tattoo studio he dreamed of opening someday. He carried that vision with him until he could bring it to life.
Around 2002, Erik wanted to help his brother Angel find a better direction. He approached the owner of the tattoo shop where he worked and asked if Angel could learn body piercing.
It was an opportunity for Angel to build a career, but it was also a way for the brothers to work together, support one another, and watch each other’s backs.
Angel began his piercing career, and the brothers found themselves working toward a shared future.
BUILT TOGETHER. BUILT TO LAST.
After years of developing their skills, building relationships, and establishing themselves in the tattoo and piercing industry, Erik and Angel were ready to create something of their own.
On December 1, 2004, Hollywood Stars Tattoo officially opened in Los Angeles.
The brothers envisioned more than a place to work. They wanted a studio where they could build a future for their families, develop their craft, and create an environment where clients and artists felt welcome.
The years brought challenges, changes, new artists, and generations of clients. Through it all, Hollywood Stars Tattoo continued evolving while remaining connected to the vision that started it.
More than two decades later, the studio stands as a reflection of two brothers who found a way forward together and built something that continues to grow.
WHAT MATTERS BEFORE THE INK
THE RIGHT DESIGN
A design should work with your body, not just look good on paper. We consider placement, proportions, and how the artwork will translate onto skin before the tattoo begins.
HONEST GUIDANCE
Not every idea works exactly as imagined. We’ll discuss what’s realistic, suggest adjustments when needed, and help you understand your options before making a permanent decision.
A CLEAN ENVIRONMENT
Proper sanitation, sterile single-use needles, and professional procedures are essential parts of every tattoo and piercing appointment. Safety is never an optional extra.
KNOW WHAT'S NEXT
Before you leave, you’ll receive aftercare guidance for your tattoo or piercing, including what to expect during healing and when to reach out with questions.
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ERIK
OWNER + LEAD TATTOO ARTIST
I’ve been tattooing since I was 13 years old, and after more than three decades, there’s still something about bringing an idea to life on someone’s skin that keeps me excited about what I do.
Over the years, I’ve worked on everything from portraits and realism to cover-ups and large-scale custom projects. Every tattoo presents a different challenge, and I enjoy working through the details that make a design fit the individual wearing it.
One thing I’ve learned is that being a good tattoo artist involves more than knowing how to tattoo. It means listening, being patient, understanding what someone wants, and knowing when to offer guidance.
I continue studying, experimenting, and developing my techniques because I believe there’s always room to improve, regardless of how long you’ve been doing something.
Some clients come in knowing exactly what they want. Others have an idea but need help bringing it together. I enjoy both.
For me, the most rewarding part is seeing someone leave with a piece they’re genuinely proud to wear.
ANGEL
OWNER + LEAD PIERCER
I’ve been piercing since around 2002, and more than two decades in this industry have taught me that the smallest details can make the biggest difference.
Piercing requires precision, patience, and an understanding of anatomy. Every placement deserves careful consideration, and I take pride in making sure each piercing is approached with the attention it requires.
Cleanliness, proper technique, and safe piercing practices have always been priorities in my work. I believe clients deserve to understand the procedure, the healing process, and how to properly care for their piercing.
My responsibility doesn’t end when the appointment is over. I’m committed to helping clients through the healing process, answering questions, and providing guidance whenever concerns come up.
After all these years, I still take pride in my work and in the trust people place in me. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.