Spotlight: Electric Dragonland
by Nora m. Davis (HBCA)—November 2009
Shahn Anderson of Electric Dragonland
It was late afternoon when I headed to meet friend Shahn Anderson at Electric Dragonland – not for a tattoo consultation – but to learn more about his business!
Shahn is a Minnesota native, raised in Maple Plain. I asked how he came to do business in Hopkins and with a sly grin he told me he was one of those who “cruised” Mainstreet in the early ‘80s. His shop opened on Mainstreet in 1994, first at 1005 Mainstreet, now at 923 Mainstreet.
And how does one become a tattoo artist? Shahn explained that he always liked to draw, and while in the Air Force in Mississippi came upon a tattoo shop. “I walked past and wondered just what it was all about," he said. "After several more trips I finally walked in and the rest is history. I began a five-year apprenticeship with the late great Sailor Moses and Scott Sterling. Learning was a “bottom to top” situation. I did everything—swept the floors, cleaned equipment—doing what needed to be done while watching, learning and practicing." Next Shahn headed to New Hampshire for an additional two years, further honing his skills with tattoo artist Juli Moon.
According to Shahn, tattoos are truly an ancient art form. Tattoos have not only been found on Egyptian mummies, but also on the Ice man’s frozen remains which are over 5000 years old! When I asked about the process, Shahn explained that Electric Dragonland does not serve walk-ins, or anyone under the age of eighteen. "If you’re interested in a tattoo, you’ll be asked to come in for a consultation at which time we will discuss your tattoo. We want to make sure a tattoo will work for that individual”, he explained. (No first time tattoos on the face or neck.) After the client leaves, Shahn begins the process of drawing the artwork. There are no “cookie cutter” tattoos—each tattoo is a work of art. Shahn is internationally known for his work—clients have flown in from Canada, Germany and Brazil for his artistry. In the shop you’ll also see some of the shop’s three hundred awards. His work also includes one well-known TV anchor…
Electric Dragonland is an exceptionally clean operation, only disposable needles are used, instruments are sterilized in medical-grade autoclaves, and all surfaces are disinfected and disinfected once again. It was obvious that cleanliness is very important to Shahn, as he’s been involved in writing guidelines for Hennepin County as well as other legislation in both the Minnesota House and Senate. He also served for ten years on the Board of Directors of the Alliance of Professional Tattooists, four of those years as President.
His busy staff includes four talented tattoo artists, and three administrative staff dedicated to keeping the place humming.
So if you’re looking for a gift for someone who perhaps doesn’t have everything, gift certificates are available. Be mindful, however – there is a waiting list! Call 952-933-2097 for a gift that will last a lifetime.
