Shawn Mahaffey

I’ve been tattooing since 2008. I started at Sideshow Studios and joined Old Republic Tattoo Company in 2014. My work focuses on delicate, whimsical illustration with strong influences from pop culture, anime, fantasy, and Japanese cyberpunk themes.

I gravitate toward clean linework, thoughtful composition, and designs that feel intentional without being loud. A lot of my inspiration comes from series like Robotech, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Mobile Suit Gundam, along with film, games, and painting.

Outside of tattooing, I enjoy movies, TV, video games, music, motorcycles, and playing flag football. I’m also a dedicated 49ers fan and the proud dad of a preteen daughter. In the shop, I’m quiet and reserved, but I tend to drop the occasional one-liner when you least expect it. I try to bring patience, kindness, and calm energy into everything I do.