Issue 11 – November/December 2015
Page 1 of Mimsy’s Trailer Trash Tattoo
Page 2 of Mimsy’s Trailer Trash Tattoo
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Nestled amongst rows of warehouses in one of Brisbane’s industrial regions is Mimsy’s Trailer Trash Tattoo – a vintage wonderland full of flamingos, vintage Barbie dolls and a group of talented tattoo artists. You’d be forgiven for mistaking Mimsy’s for one of the many mechanics or smash repair shops in the area, but when the giant warehouse doors open to reveal a tiki bar and Mimsy’s iconic pink, sparkly 1959 Sun Liner trailer you know you’ve died and gone to rockabilly heaven.
The brainchild of owner and full time tattoo artist Mimsy, the studio has been putting their own unique stamp on customers since 2007, originally operating out of its home studio. Opening their Archerfield studio doors in 2012, Mimsy’s has become a Brisbane tattoo icon, specialising in intricate and colourful rockabilly designs. While Mimsy herself favours a cutesy, girly style, each artist at Mimsy’s has their own personal artistic direction. Whether you’re after the classic swallows, scantily clad mermaids or some Creature from the Black Lagoon ink Mimsy’s is the place to go.
What makes Mimsy’s stand out is their attention to detail – not only in tattooing but also in the studio itself. Downstairs is home to yet another charming vintage caravan and a gorgeous tiki bar that looks like something from the set of Gilligan’s Island. Designed to look like a kitsch 1950s lounge room – complete with an impressive collection of vintage furniture – the upstairs waiting room invites customers to listen to some rock and roll, admire the walls and walls of tattoo choices and await their appointment in style.
If you haven’t made the journey to the studio but know the name perhaps you’ve seen Mimsy’s out on the road. Mimsy’s vintage trailer is a regular at vintage and rockabilly festivals such as Greazefest and Garterbelts and Gasoline, offering customers the novelty of getting tattooed in a truly vintage setting. As if the beauty and glitter of the trailer itself isn’t enough of an attraction, the trailer is always decorated with outdoor scenes that ooze vintage charm and it isn’t uncommon to be welcomed inside by Mimsy’s own bikini babes or Las Vegas showgirls. Mimsy said getting out and meeting new people through tattooing is a passion of hers. “It’s just amazing to create tattoos in a vintage setting, and be able to go on the road with all my creature comforts,” says Mimsy. “People get a real kick out of the ‘souvenir’ quality that getting tattooed in an old trailer affords. It’s just super fun!”
Whether your body is a canvas of inked artistry or you’re a tattoo rookie, the friendly staff and exciting environment will make you feel at home – your dream vintage home. Mimsy said she loves what she does and being part of a unique tradition. “I love the old time nostalgia associated with the tradition of tattooing – the rich and mysterious history, the stories, the pioneers and their past,” says Mimsy. “I adore my clients and meeting people and sharing a bond like no other – also with my colleagues, fellow artists and peers. It’s a very special and sacred thing to do a tattoo, and one I take very seriously.” To check out some examples of their work visit trailertrashtatoo.net. Walk-ins are welcome but be sure to drop them a line at trailertrashtattoo@hotmail.com or (07) 321 675 39 and book an appointment.
Adore Pinup Magazine Issue 11 – November/December 2015
Emily Russ 