From Bandmates to Ink Mates: Jon Markel’s Journey with Jesse Smith of Loose Screw Tattoo

Jon Markel, the bassist for Carbon Leaf, has always been passionate about music and art. Since joining Carbon Leaf in the early 2000s, Markel has enjoyed a successful career in music, but his artistic interests extend beyond the stage. Art has brought him and Jesse Smith, tattoo artist and owner of Loose Screw Tattoo, together in a rich creative friendship.

Markel’s first brush with Smith was somewhat serendipitous. Intrigued by Smith’s “new school” tattoo style, which he had seen on TV, Markel was thrilled to discover that Smith was based in Richmond. Their paths crossed at local spots like Ellwood Thompson’s. Soon, they started to talk more often and sparked a lasting connection. 

“We were incredibly similar in our approach to life and our respective art forms,” Markel said. “We‘re both pragmatic people and also both have the creativity gene, so our friendship and partnerships have all been really natural.” 

Soon, Markel and Smith began collaborating on an idea for Markel’s left arm sleeve, featuring an octopus battling a robot. The octopus symbolizes good, while the robot represents evil—an idea that Smith brought to life with his famous new-school illustrative tattoo style.

For Markel’s right arm sleeve, Smith transformed an existing traditional Japanese-style tattoo with his own design, incorporating elements like peonies and lotus flowers that complemented the existing traditional design.

“It took 5 visits to complete both tattoo pieces,” says Markel. “One sitting was 10 hours straight with Jesse. Loose Screw is a really great environment to hang out in and working with Jesse made it all fly by.”

Their collaboration continued beyond tattoos. Markel also enlisted Smith to design a custom pick guard for his new Lakeland bass. Using Procreate on his iPad, Markel drafted a design, which Smith then refined and applied to the bass, showcasing their seamless teamwork.

Markel + Carbon Leaf Prepare to Release New Album

Markel’s new guitar design comes ahead of a fall tour to celebrate the release of Carbon Leaf’s newest album, ‘Time Is The Playground’ which will be released September 27, 2024. It is Carbon Leaf’s first full-length album in a decade. The Virginia-based indie-rock band known for their fusion of folk and rock.

“The last handful of albums have been really folky and acoustic centric, but this is all about getting back to being a rock band,” says Markel about the new album.

While this is the band’s first album in a decade, they have been busy releasing two EPs and a 27-song live performance album. Some elements of these performances have been woven with brand new material in the new album, which they’ve spent a year and a half recording and mixing. 

See more album details on the Carbon Leaf website.

A Closer look at Loose Screw Tattoo

Loose Screw Tattoo is home to 12 talented tattoo artists in Richmond, VA. Owner Jesse Smith has a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art from Virginia Commonwealth University and has led Loose Screw Tattoo build a reputation for excellence. 

“Like most places, the people make Loose Screw special,” says Jon. “Loose Screw specifically is flush with hyper creative people.” 

Smith, who has been featured in numerous national and international tattoo magazines and won hundreds of awards, brings decades of experience and artistic vision to the shop. The tattoo studio also regularly hosts celebrity tattoo artists who have short-term residencies. Many of these celebrities also are featured artists at the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention October 18-20.   

Join Jon Markel + the Tattoo Community in October

Markel’s journey with Smith is a testament to the vibrant and creative spirit of Richmond. That’s why you’ll find him and other creatives at the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention. 

“I love walking up and down and seeing their work on display,” Markel says. “It’s so cool to see everyone express themselves. On top of that, everyone who is there is super fun and special to hang out with.”

If you’re a fan of tattoo art or just curious about the tattoo scene, don’t miss the chance to join in on this celebration of art and creativity. Get your tickets for this exciting event and experience the best of the tattoo world firsthand. Visit Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention for more information and ticket sales.

For more updates on Carbon Leaf and John Markel’s artistic endeavors, follow their Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Visit the Carbon Leaf website for the latest news and music releases.