When tattoo enthusiasts step through the doors of Acropolis Tattoo in Yelm, they’ll likely be hit immediately with two thoughts.
For longtime Yelm residents, they’ll remember Ghost Dog Tattoo Studio, where Acropolis Tattoo, 806 E. Yelm Ave. Unit 2, is now housed.
But any customer will instantly sense the artistic vision of Steven Gamez, as he is not only the lone tattoo artist but he also completed much of the interior construction for the business.
Acropolis Tattoo, co-owned by Jacob Rodstrom and Terry Gunter, opened its doors on Friday, Feb. 21, and offers tattoos, coverups and body piercings. One of Gamez’ specialties is what he calls “revival of the tattoo.”
“I like to make old tattoos new on older people. There’s people in their 50s and 60s that come to me, and I give them their old work fresh, and they’re happy and excited,” he said. “That’s why I do it. It’s to make people build their confidence because it’s a form of expression. A lot of people want to tell their story. The body is a temple and we can decorate it how we like.”
Gamez began drawing at the age of 12, marking himself with his dream tattoos. At 15, he made his own tattoo machines and had a half sleeve, which caught the attention of his grandmother.
“She caught me one summer. It was really hot, and she saw me walking around with a long sleeve, and she snatched my left arm up and she cried her eyes out,” Gamez said. “But at that moment, she knew that I was not gonna stop. I liked the art. I wasn’t really good at it, but as time progressed, I got better.”
While Gunter and Rodstrom are not tattoo artists themselves, their passion for tattoos dates back to early adulthood. They are both proud owners of approximately 30 tattoos and were hooked from the first time in the chair.
“I grew up in a super Christian household with my grandmother, so (tattoos) were always super taboo. I remember growing up and seeing all these guys in tattoos, and there were so many different ones,” Gunter said. “I started realizing how many people were putting their life on their skin. Once you get your first tattoo, it’s almost like you get bit and you start seeing your life come to life on you.”
Rodstrom said the trio was lucky to find the vacant spot facing one of the busiest sections of Yelm’s main stretch. The business was an idea between Rodstrom and Gunter for years before construction and paperwork began five months ago ahead of its opening in February. Acropolis had several tattoo appointments in its first week.
“I was told that there’s about 40,000 cars a day that go right by here, so you can’t beat that,” Rodstrom said. “For a new business, and we’re new to owning and running a business, this is all a learning curve for us. Having a front street area is a little easier for us.”
Acropolis is more than just an opportunity to express oneself through art; it was an opportunity for Gamez, Rodstrom and Gunter to show their children what ambition and hard work can lead to.
“It was something that I could finally do for myself and my family. I wanted to show them that if you have a dream, you can go for it,” Gamez said. “I didn’t want to get stuck in the 9 to 5 anymore and working extra hours late. I wanted to give them hope and show them that there is change and opportunity if you look for it. You’ve just gotta strive.”
To learn more about Acropolis Tattoo, call 360-720-6718 or email acropolistattoo24@gmail.com.
