Don Ed Hardy

 Hardy later developed a relationship and a friendship with Sailor Jerry Collins who was the first to pioneer the modern day tattoo art. The friendship was a major influence on the work of Hardy. Sailor Jerry was the first person he encountered and they started a lengthy correspondence. This opened an opportunity to enter an area that was previously shut off to the outside world. Hardy developed a relationship with Horihide the legendary tattoo artist, through Jerry's connections. Hardy was a tattoo artist in Japan in the 1970s until the 1980s. Hardy claimed that his clients included bikers and Yakuza members. Hardy rapidly became a major influence in the introduction of Japanese tattoo designs into American working styles. It was commonplace for those, particularly those who were serving in the U.S. Navy to go to tattoo studios or the back of other establishments to choose designs from the walls. The motives of Hardy were more aesthetic. They wanted to highlight your individuality and the tattoos they created are a reflection of the person's taste and personal preferences. The collaboration would occur between the tattoo artist and the client. Hardy believed that tattoos were about personalization and customizing and that the wearer should feel a sense of connection. The fine art mindset has allowed tattoos to move from the fringe into mainstream culture.