Welcome to Wolf and Shadow Tattoo Collective
Diego Tattoo Gallery is now Wolf & Shadow Tattoo Collective!
We are changing our name but keeping the same welcoming shop, the same passionate tattooers, and the same dedication to our community.
Our name is inspired by an Aesop’s Fable about a wolf that sees his giant shadow and truly believes, without second thought, that he is bigger and fiercer than a lion. That is, until the lion eats him.
We chose this name because we never want to be a tattoo shop full of ego and pretentiousness, hiding behind our over-inflated shadow. The foundation of our work as a collective will always be about kindness and respect. We have loved being part of our community as Diego Tattoo Gallery and are excited to continue our tradition of high quality tattoos in a welcoming environment as Wolf & Shadow Tattoo Collective. Whether it’s your first time in a tattoo shop, or you are a seasoned collector, Wolf and Shadow Tattoo Collective [fka Diego Tattoo Gallery] is for you!
Our artists utilize cutting-edge styles and techniques to ensure that you go home with a unique and impressive piece of body art. There is no tattoo too large or too small, or too strange for that matter, for our artists. Bring us your wackiest, most wonderful, sentimental, or nonsensical ideas! We will welcome it all and be sure to pair you with an artist that can bring your vision to life.
Our shop is a laid back environment with plenty of eclectic custom art to admire. We focus on promoting a welcoming and comfortable environment for all of our clients. We want you to feel like you belong here, even if it’s your first time getting ink.
We look forward to collaborating with our clients and creating an unforgettable experience. Please check out our artists’ work and send us a message with your ideas. We look forward to talking, laughing, and creating with you!
The Wolf and Shadow Tattoo Collective Vision
“To aid our clients in true self-expression by creating custom art unique to each individual, in a safe and comfortable environment.”
Wolf and Shadow Tattoo Collective [fka Diego Tattoo Gallery] opened in 2012 and was originally named after a beloved long-haired chihuahua named Diego. Although we said goodbye to Diego in 2017, he still watches over the shop in various forms of art – including the statue shown above. Our shop works to recreate the love and wisdom that sweet little Diego shared through every client interaction.
The owner of Wolf and Shadow Tattoos, Cari Fox, is committed to bringing Southern California the best tattoo experience around. Wolf and Shadow Tattoo Collective [fka Diego Tattoo Gallery] has become a top tattoo shop in San Diego through creating memorable experiences, building meaningful relationships with clients, and maintaining high integrity in our work. Wolf and Shadow Tattoos is also a great place to work as a tattoo artist because we believe happy artists in a positive work environment create better art. Our values of true self-expression, safety, and comfort guide everything we do.
Wolf and Shadow Tattoo Collective is also committed to giving back and impacting our community in positive ways. We enjoy hosting fundraisers and events that benefit worthwhile charities including natural disaster relief and social justice causes. We believe that art can save the world, and we are fortunate to have a small part in that movement. We are currently selling Black Lives Matter and Dismantle White Supremacy custom t-shirts to benefit Black Fish Gold Studio’s Twin Cities Uprising.
Our Shop Offers High Quality, Custom Tattoos.
You can expect guidance through the entire tattoo process. From reviewing portfolios, exploring custom flash art, consultation on sizing, location, healing and tattoo aftercare, our artists do it all.
At this time, Wolf and Shadow Tattoo Collective does not offer body piercing services, through its network of professionals and artists can certainly recommend you to talented peers in nearby shops.
We look forward to welcoming you into our shop – stop by soon!
Walk-Ins: aka "I wanna tattoo right meow!"
Wolf & Shadow Tattoos books by appointment and can also offer same day appointments. Our artists are highly sought after so please plan your tattoo in advance. Same day, and next day tattoos are possible. Just text or call the shop to check availability (619-246-5226) If you send us an email with your ideas, we can help set you up with the best artist for the job. While booking in advance is encouraged, we also appreciate some flexibility on time frame to ensure the best possible experience for you.
Walk-In Wednesdays!!
Wolf & Shadow SD is now offering WALK-INS every Wednesday from 12-7. If you want to just casually stroll trough and get that impulsive lil tattoo you’ve only partially thought about, this is the time!!! Feel free to call or text in advance to see if there is a wait. LET’S HAVE SOME FUN!!
