Born and raised in the Quad Cities, Samuel Adams experienced a true Midwest upbringing. He spent much of his childhood playing in Little League and football with his brothers; he also developed a strong work ethic early on, making extra money by doing yard work around the neighborhood, helping out with his dad’s electrical business, and selling drawings at school. He was also consistently drawn to expanding his creativity and curious nature. Building Legos, playing music, and drawing pirate ships became some of his favorite pastimes. 

However, his desire to pursue creative knowledge didn’t stop at pirate ships. After furthering his artistic interests in high school, he went on to study graphic design at Indiana Wesleyan University. During his time there, he developed his design knowledge, tried his hand at film photography, and practiced print-making. Simultaneously, he played instruments in several bands and worked with the campus coffee shop and art galleries. 

Halfway through the design program, he graduated with an associates degree to pursue a tattoo apprenticeship in his hometown. Upon moving back to the Quad Cities, Sam apprenticed under Chelsea Frame at The Happy Cat Tattoo in Moline, IL. 

Particularly drawn to the American Traditional style, Sam aims to revive traditional designs from the past and deliver quality tattoos with a rich history. He still likes drawing pirate ships—mostly on people.