Darkside Tattoo was originally opened in 1992 by Sean O'Hara. It started on Farren Ave in New Haven as a small studio with only himself and an apprentice. Darkside quickly gained recognition, and new artists joined the team. The space got eaten up rather quickly too, and it was time to find a new home. East Haven was to be the city for the new location, right off Rt. 80 on Foxon Blvd. The new site proved to be the great place for a tattoo shop. Darkside took off.

The shop received alot of well-deserved recognition with magazine articles, convention spots, and online buzz. As the shop's reputation grew, the size was expanded to take on even more talented artists. It became alot to handle. In 2005, it was just too much. Sean, decided to close the shop and take a relaxed approach for the next few years.

He found himself in Meriden at Second Skin Tattoo which was owned by a long-time friend. What a great experience, to work with new people and develop life-long friendships as well. After a few years there, and the time to get things right for himself, Sean teamed up with an old friend helped him get Graphic Images Tattoo off the ground. It was a brand-new shop, and it seemed like a brand-new start as well. But as fate would have it, tensions grew and before ruining a friendship, Sean moved on, determined to re-open the famed Darkside Tattoo.

The year that followed would prove to be trying, working out of the house was a humbling experience, after tattooing professionally for two decades. Finding the right location for the studio wasn't easy either. But with the help of a life-long friend, and Sean’s wife, Melinda, they were able to re-open the New Darkside Tattoo in 2010.

Once again, the shop’s reputation soared, and with a full team of new artists, Darkside was back. Within a few years, the team outgrew that small shop, and was relocated to it’s permanent location, 190 Main Street, in East Haven. Its wide open studio, with a great vibe, talented artists, body piercing, and inviting atmosphere.

Darkside Tattoo Darkside has always delivered cutting edge artwork. We have always been blessed with a great team of artists and are dedicated to keeping up with our reputation. We are proud to have such an amazing group of artists on the crew. Their artwork speaks for itself and we are all determined to keep Darkside on top.

Darkside Tattoo has proven to be an innovative custom tattoo design studio. We pride ourselves in being able to deliver state of the art tattoos and custom satisfaction. Either bring in your own ideas, or we'll work with you to design the tattoo that’s just right for you. Customers can check out our extensive online portfolios and see what we've done for our customers in the past.

Not many studios have ever achieved the fame and recognition of Darkside Tattoo. In the tattoo world, as well our local community, Darkside has become a household name. We are committed to continuing our legacy and are always moving forward.