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Artist Duo Launches Kickstarter for Children’s Book to Reduce Stigma Around Tattoos and Create Defining Memories

Nearly five years after meeting during a tattoo appointment, artists Matt Manning and Jesse Taylor are teaming up to make tattoo culture a staple of family night.

Tallahassee, Fl. (October 1, 2023) — Artists Matt Manning and Jesse Taylor have launched a kickstarter for their new ABC book, “T is for Tattoo.” The book features 26 designs — one for each letter in the alphabet — illustrated by professional tattooer Manning. The book is the latest passion project and brainchild of Taylor, an Art Director and designer who’s been in the industry for over a decade.

Though more than 60% of millennial parents have tattoos, “T is for Tattoo” was designed with anyone in mind. Combining early childhood education with a gallery of traditional tattoo designs, the book can be used for language development, creative inspiration or a fun experience the whole family can enjoy.

Anchors, lighthouses, pumpkins and peacocks are just some of the designs that can be found inside (and on Taylor’s own calf, which he received from Manning as a way to promote the duo’s kickstarter). And while the book doesn't come with the real thing, it does include a set of 26 temporary tattoos, one for each design.

“We wanted to create something we could see our friends picking up off the shelf. For their own families, as gifts or even inspiration for their next tattoo. It was important to stay true to the culture while introducing it in a new way,” said Taylor.

Taylor is a recent Colorado transplant, but that hasn’t stopped him from immersing himself in the local art community through AIGA and adjuncting at Pikes Peak State College — and all while juggling a full time agency and freelance career. Mostly focused on small businesses, Taylor’s freelance work has included projects for Manning’s own Magnolia Tattoo Company.

Owner of Magnolia Tattoo Company in Tallahassee, Florida, Manning has spent the last 12 years refining his craft and becoming a highly sought after tattoo artist. Manning also runs a sign-painting company, and his work can be seen all around the Tallahassee area.

After meeting in 2019 while Taylor was getting a tattoo from Manning, the two became fast friends. Both fueled by their passion for creativity and community, they hope that “T is for Tattoo” can be an opportunity to share that in a broader, more transformational way.

The project also includes a print, coloring book and a digital download of the designs. Supporters of the kickstarter can receive a variety of items as rewards depending on their pledge. The highest pledges can even receive a tattoo directly from Manning, or have their name tattooed on Taylor’s thigh.

The kickstarter will be available now through November 11.

LINKS

Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tisfortattoo/t-is-for-tattoo