Tattooing has a rich and storied past, filled with legendary artists whose work shaped the industry as we know it today. Among them, "Capt." August Coleman and Bob Wicks stand out as pioneers whose artistry and influence continue to resonate. A rare glimpse into their connection can be seen in a 1950s photograph of Cap Coleman’s shop, where tattoo flash by Bob Wicks is prominently displayed. Two of those flash pieces, (pictured above) serve as a testament to their authenticity and historical significance, are now housed in the Lucky Supply Tattoo Museum.
Bob Wicks, born in Brooklyn in 1902, was a gifted artist who first started tattooing in Coney Island around 1920. His career took him through some of tattooing’s most legendary locations, including Charlie Wagner’s shop at #11 Chatham Square. He tattooed for years before ultimately returning to his first love, banner and show painting. Though much of his tattoo flash has been lost to time, the few remaining pieces showcase his undeniable talent and impact on early American tattooing.
Cap Coleman, a titan of tattoo history, made his mark in Norfolk, Virginia, setting up shop on the bustling East Main Street, where sailors from around the world sought his iconic designs. Though his exact training remains somewhat mysterious, Coleman’s reputation as a master tattooer was solidified through the years. He even dabbled in the supply side of tattooing, selling needles, machines, and flash, though he never heavily marketed this aspect of his business. When Norfolk outlawed tattooing in 1950, he and other artists relocated to nearby Portsmouth, keeping the art alive despite legal challenges.
The flash art that once adorned Coleman’s walls has found its way into history, with two original sheets by Bob Wicks now preserved in the Lucky Supply Tattoo Museum. These pieces serve as a rare link between two of tattooing’s greats and an opportunity to witness firsthand the craftsmanship that helped define traditional American tattooing. We invite you to visit the museum and see this incredible piece of history up close.
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