Former welder makes his mark

By Joe Gibel

A local man is leaving his mark on Windsorites through the art of tattooing.

Mike Knight, 35, has been tattooing in various local tattoo shops for the past six years. He began tattooing after being laid off from his welding job and was introduced to the art by a friend who had made a homemade tattoo machine.

Knight made the decision to order a real one and give tattooing a try. He started working in various shops in 2010 and said he has inked countless people across the city.

He is currently working at Broken Skull Tattoo on Ottawa Street and said he enjoys the style and quality of life the business has created for him.

“I don’t have to work a real job. It’s fun. It makes your quality of life better,” said Knight. “The money is great. The hours are great because I can make my own.”

Even so, Knight said there is no slowing down and you can always push yourself to be better and do more.

“Things inspire you and another artist can push you to do better from trying to outdo or emulate them,” said Knight. “You should never be fully satisfied with anything in your life. You should always try and move forward.”

Upon entering his shop, it is apparent Knight has more passions than just tattooing. His area in the shop is covered in wrestling and skateboard-related items and shows he likes to go out and have fun.

“Mike is a rad dude, it was always fun with Mike. He was never in a bad mood,” said a former co-worker and local tattoo artist Aaron James. “Every artist has their own style and if you want fun punk rock stuff Mike is your guy.”

Knight is also well known in the Windsor music scene and many musicians and fans want to be tattooed by him. Friendships made through his work have gained many regular clients for Knight.

“You are always going to feel more comfortable with someone you know well, and he has very reasonable prices,” said regular customer and friend Chelsea Fields.

While Knight’s prices have a wide range, for the most part his pricing is very flexible.

“Come to the Broken Skull. Bring pizza and tip me well,” said Knight.