Tattoo-A-Palooza: Sailor Jerry Rum Celebrates Its Namesake's 101st Birthday With Free Tattoos

By Michele Lenni in Arts & Entertainment on Jan 10, 2012 7:00PM

Good news for those of you looking to make additions to your derma-perma art installation; Sailor Jerry Rum has announced they are celebrating their namesake's, Norman "Sailor Jerry" Collins, 101st birthday by giving away tattoos of one of his iconic drawings this Saturday, January 14, at The Chicago Tattooing Company.

Known to most as the father of American tattooing, Collins was a rough-and-tumble navy man. Collins dropped anchor in Honolulu, Hawaii in the '30s and created a distinct style of tattooing with bold lines and colors. His art inspired both the good and the bad in tattoo artists and fashion "designers" like Ed Hardy. Collins, who would've been 101 on January 14, died in 1973.

Yes, you've seen his art (pictured above) everywhere from your grandpop's arm to the noggin of some unsuspecting fashion victim on the boardwalk wearing the token trucker's cap. Love it or hate it, is an iconic symbol of American culture, and is still seen as a symbol of rebellion today.

We suggest you get to the shop early. Free anything usually warrants a giant line, and free body art will be no exception.

Saturday, January 14, Chicago Tattooing Company, 1017 W. Belmont in Chicago, First Come First Serve, FREE