Milwaukee tattoo artist Mike D tattooing

About Award-Winning Tattooist Mike Davenport

About Award-Winning Tattooist Mike Davenport

To me, tattooing is about more than putting great-looking ink on skin. It’s also about capturing and creating your story. And yes, it’s about making an amazing-looking piece of art that fits and flows perfectly with your body, so it feels like a part of you. I’m Mike Davenport (also known as Pure Gold Tattoos). I’ve earned my clients’ trust by being true to their visions, dedicated to my craft, and committed to great customer service and tattoo experiences.

Milwaukee-Born and Based Tattoo Artist

Through my dedication to you the client and to the art form, I’ve become a highly sought-after tattoo artist in Milkwaukee and beyond. I work at Walker’s Point Tattoo and travel on the Villain Arts Tattoo Convention Circuit all over the country. 

My professional tattoo career began in Tucson, Arizona with a very traditional apprenticeship learning from tattooers with industry experience for over 30 years. That experience cemented my love for old-school tattooing.

After a few years, I relocated back to the Midwest and continued honing my craft. I take great pride in being a tattooer of tattooers and having made a name among my fellow artists as well as my clients. 

During my career, I have won numerous best-of-show awards at Tattoo Conventions across the country. Periodically, I get invited to work as a guest artist at tattoo shops throughout the country.

An avid fine artist working with watercolors, acrylics, and sign painting, I’m also open to discussing commissioned art and often have a variety of artwork available for sale.

My personal tattoo studio, workspace, and chair at Walker's Point Tattoo
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Tattoos Completed
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Years of Experience
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Of Tattoo Conventions

Traditional & Neotraditional Tattoo Artist in Milwaukee Offering Unparalleled Tattoo Experiences

Get a Custom Tattoo That's Part of You, Not Just On You

I’m a traditional tattooist in mindset, relentlessly focused on the fundamentals of great tattoo art. Yet, I am more than a tattoo artist. I recognize my role is also confidant, storyteller, and old-school craftsman. With deep roots in traditional tattooing, my style has evolved into a unique blend of traditional and neotraditional techniques. My work is characterized by bold lines, high contrast, and a touch of texture that brings each piece to life.

I didn’t get into tattooing just for the art. I also embraced it for the lifestyle, the freedom it offers, and the connections it helps me make. Some tattooers may forget that the clients make this amazing work and lifestyle possible. I never forget. The many client reviews you’ll find on my website and elsewhere were earned through this mindset and my respect for the best traditions and techniques of tattooing.

Michelle Smith
Michelle Smith
Mike did my tattoo at a convention in Louisville, KY. Couldn't be any more pleased with his work than I am. He went to bat to get a design we had on a phone drawn out in his limited time being I didn't like anything he had to choose from. His touch is soft. He has a very steady hand. Line work is outstanding!! You can really see it in the reaper's hand. My grim reaper looks like a grim reaper from several feet away. It gets a lot of attention and compliments. I often think of taking a trip to Milwaukee just to have Mike do more tats for me as I trust his workmanship! Thanks Mike for the outstanding job!

From the initial communication and consultation, I emphasize clear communication, set expectations, and ensure every client is prepped for the best possible experience of getting a new tattoo. I understand the profound impact of the tattooing process, both physically and mentally. It’s not just about enduring the pain so you have something cool on you; it’s about discovering inner strength, commitment, and a newfound appreciation for who you are and what you can do.

Beau Krueger
Beau Krueger
Mike is awesome! He did my first tattoo and he made it an absolute breeze. I gave him a few ideas of what I wanted and he turned into a true original masterpiece. His attention to detail is unparalleled. I cannot speak more highly of him and he shows a true passion for his craft. I would highly recommend to anyone to go to Mike for your next tattoo.

Each of the custom tattoos I create is a collaboration between me and my client, a shared journey of bringing a vision to life. I want you to walk out of the shop not just loving your new tattoo, but feeling better about yourself, more confident, and ready to show the world your story. With each custom tattoo, I aim for two things: a bold, lasting design that fills you with pride—attention-grabbing from across the street and beautiful up close and personal—and an experience that’s smooth, comfortable, and memorable.

Jak Kedinger
Jak Kedinger
I’ve been with 3 artists so far and mike has been the best one by far. He’s super easy to talk to and makes you feel very comfortable while you are with him. Got a piece done on my forearm and couldn’t have asked for anything more from him. Mike has the cleanest line work and best shading I’ve seen. The designs he draws up are unbelievable and will be going back to him for the rest of my tattoos 100%. Absolutely LOVE the work he did!

The Tattoo Shop

Walker's Point Tattoo Co. Is My Home Base in Milwaukee

Since joining the team at Walker’s Point Tattoo Co., I’ve felt at home in this highly professional tattoo parlor, in Walker’s Point just outside downtown Milwaukee. This place is more than just a shop. It’s family. I’m proud to be a part of this incredible crew of tattoo artists. Thanks to them, the owner, and our community of amazing clients, the shop has been recognized as the best tattoo shop in town. Our loyal clients and friends voted us the Best Tattoo Parlor in Milwaukee in the Shepherd Express four times.

Our clients always comment about how comfortable, inviting, and visually appealing the shop is. You’ll get a friendly welcome at the door and immediately notice the artwork covering the walls—mostly original art by the tattooists working here.

We take walk ins and I welcome you to stop in to try and catch me (see my normal working hours listed below), especially if you want to explore your options with the other tattoo artists, too. While I might be busy tattooing, I’m happy to pause for a quick consultation with you. And, whether it’s your first tattoo or you’re a long-time collector, everyone in the shop will treat you right and make you feel comfortable and welcome.

How To Contact Me About Your New Tattoo

Reach Out Or Stop In

From our first chat, whether it’s through a text, email, or direct message, I prioritize clear communication and efficiency. I value your time, which is why I ensure the communication and booking process is seamless. You’ll find how I do things puts you at ease and makes the tattoo process enjoyable and the final product above and beyond your expectations.

You can walk into the shop—though if you’re positive you want to work with me, it’s best to reach out to me here first. But if you’re itching to get in ASAP or you’re already in the neighborhood and want to stop by, feel free to. It’s likely I’ll be tattooing, but I’m happy to speak with you and there are other great artists at the shop as well. 

Past Client Reviews