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Truth — Owner & Lead Artist at Truth's Tattoos

Owner & Lead Artist

Since Day One

Meet the Artist

Truth

Eric Jefferson Sr.

Truth is the proprietor and lead artist of Truth's Tattoos, located at 3510 Taylor Blvd in Louisville, Kentucky. A native of Louisville, Truth began his artistic journey at age 8, drawing with pencil on paper. He went on to attend duPont Manual High School — Louisville's renowned arts magnet school — where he honed his fine arts foundation.

As a professional tattoo artist with a fine arts background, Truth brings not only modern tattoo concepts and techniques but also the classical elements and principles of art and design to every piece he creates. His work spans black and gray realism, color portraits, script lettering, and custom designs — each one a unique masterpiece.

"Let's design your next masterpiece."

Fine Arts Background

Classically trained artist who began drawing at age 8 and attended duPont Manual High School, Louisville's premier arts magnet school.

Martial Arts Master

8th degree black belt in Goju Ryu. Inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame as 'Master of the Year' in 2010.

Veteran & Community Leader

Veteran-owned business. Teaches martial arts through Metro Parks and the JCPS school system. Active community mentor.

Beyond the Ink

Truth's story extends far beyond the tattoo chair. A lifelong martial artist, he began studying Shotokan karate at age 6 and earned his first black belt at 17. By age 15, he was already teaching his own karate class at a local church community center. His dedication to martial arts led him to train in over a dozen styles, including Chun Do Kwon TKD, Wing Chun Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Okinawan Goju Ryu.

In 2010, Truth was inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame and awarded "Master of the Year." He holds a Professorship Degree in Asian Martial Arts and Sciences and has been awarded the Tatsujin — an 8th degree black belt in Goju Ryu. In 2022, he was named Chief Instructor for the Kenkyukai of Kentucky, placing him in direct lineage with the founder of Goju Ryu, Chojun Miyagi.

Today, Truth continues to compete for the US National Karate Team while running Truth's Tattoos and mentoring the next generation of artists. His studio is proudly Black-owned, veteran-owned, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safespace — a true reflection of his commitment to community and inclusivity.

Portfolio

Truth's Work

Africa Shoulder Piece

Black & Gray

Africa Shoulder Piece

Phoenix Full Back

Color

Phoenix Full Back

African Queen Arm

Black & Gray

African Queen Arm

Lion Forearm Sleeve

Black & Gray

Lion Forearm Sleeve

Full Back Piece

Black & Gray

Full Back Piece

Scripture Forearm

Script & Lettering

Scripture Forearm

Lotus Ankle Design

Fine Line

Lotus Ankle Design

Leg Piece

Color

Leg Piece

Hibiscus Flower

Color

Hibiscus Flower

Thorn Crown & Skull

Black & Gray

Thorn Crown & Skull

Color Arm Piece

Color

Color Arm Piece

Detailed Arm Work

Black & Gray

Detailed Arm Work

Ready to work with Truth?