Fallen Sparrow: 15 Years Of Art
Fallen Sparrow turns 15. Envision 15 years of art. That’s a lot. Naturally thinking about this brings up questions. How was it like in the beginning? What’s changed? What’s remained the same? What have you learned? To answer these questions we need to go straight to the source and hear from the team. We’re going to explore the roots of the shop and unpack what has kept it going for this long.
The beginning
Fallen Sparrow Tattoo Company was built with a vision. That vision was to create a space where artists have a voice, feel seen, and have the opportunity to take an active role in shaping the direction of the shop. In other words, the goal was to build “a safe space to create.” Every team member, stakeholder, and client for the past 15 years has helped the vision come to fruition. This shop is deeply rooted in family and lasting relationships.
Unsurprisingly, the shop’s beginning was rough. Its founders didn’t start out with much. There were definitely financial challenges. Investments from family and a whole lot of bartering were crucial to making it all happen. Opening up a brick and mortar is difficult. Keeping up with the city and the county requirements is not fun. However, you learn as you go and you slowly build momentum. The main thing is remembering your why.
Regardless of industry, it’s known that artists aren’t always treated fairly. Fallen Sparrow is built on learning from the mistakes of others and itself to provide the best experience for the artist. This is what has kept the shop pushing forward through all adversity. Today the shop see’s a level of success and recognition any owner would be proud of. From award winning talent, to international guests, to judging in some of the biggest events in the industry; Fallen Sparrow has come a long way from its humble beginnings.
Over the years
Trends come and go. It can get exhausting trying to keep up with what the next artist or shop is doing. Fallen Sparrow has taken the approach of simply focusing on itself. When speaking with Founder, Legion Avegno, he says, “This is the way I ART.” Being true to you, keeps you from chasing what others are doing. Fallen Sparrow is about openness, as soon as you walk past the main lobby and into the main work area, you are taken aback by everything. The fact that every artist can interact with one another freely while still having a sense of unique space is amazing. The art that floods the walls is a reminder of the beautifully creative souls who are inking you. Legion says “From my booth I can speak to everyone, everyone can speak to me.” There a sense of togetherness, and the artists agree. Here’s what a few had to say:
“I admire the respect and admiration everyone has for each other!”
“It’s refreshing being in a place where we’re all independent but everyone still cares for each other. “
“It is a very professional and quiet space in which any artist can improve and get their maximum potential.”
“Everyone’s so unique! Different upbringings, backgrounds, and art styles. It feels like a sitcom in here at times.”
“We are all tight. It’s a real connection that tends to be extremely rare. I’m lucky to have become a part of this FS family.”
“I love the atmosphere that is felt in the shop, they are all very good people and very good artists.”
“Phenomenal artists and piercers. I’ve admired the shop’s talent since before I was a tattoo artist.”
“I was looking for a professional studio in the Orlando or Kissimmee Area and Fallen Sparrow is one of the best studios in the area.”
“This place opened my brain to a different perspective on my goals, and has really been a home to me.”
“The talent the shop has was always something I wanted to be a part of and bring my own style into the mix.”
What makes Fallen Sparrow unique is the artists. As a studio, they hold monthly team meetings, offer paid vacation and offer opportunities to work alongside guest artists from around the world. The respect and professionalism that everyone is shown is refreshing. As stated by an artist, “the quality of work, and quality of people in this shop is through the roof. We have so many great people.” Artists contribute to the keeping the shop in great standing and holding it’s reputation high. At Fallen Sparrow the team wants you to know that no matter who your artist is, you are in good hands because everyone in the studio is an elite artist.
Looking Forward
You never truly arrive, and Fallen Sparrow’s approach has been to simply do better than yesterday. With that philosophy it’s clear to see that the vision started 15 years ago is in full effect today. The goal was to create a safe space for artists to create and this shop has seen a lot of art from a lot different artists. Other shops have even come out of this place, and that’s a beautiful thing. It’s a sign of growth. It’s a sign of legacy. As the founders themselves were taught and inspired by those who came before them, now Fallen Sparrow gets to reap what has been sewn for 15 years.
“I can’t take out a single moment, but the whole thing has been beautiful. We laugh everyday. Incredible people have passed through our doors. They’ve all affected my life and my business in one way or another. I’m proud of what people have done.” –Legion
As for the next 15 years, there are definitely goals, but overall the team expects the same positive vibes from the people around them, while continuing to advance in their craft. There’s a lot of excitement when thinking about future projects. As a shop, Fallen Sparrow has done a lot to hone in on the original vision. It’s helped bridge the gap between artists and a fair living, but the industry is still plagued with levels of insecurity. It’s the cost of being an artist. How will Fallen Sparrow continue to adapt and evolve? We look forward with hope and excitement knowing that the shop will continue to innovate. Ultimately, Fallen Sparrow has done, and will continue to do everything possible to keep the dream alive of providing artists with “a safe space to create.” Come to Fallen Sparrow for your next tattoo, where you’ll find an artist perfect for you.
