How Will Tattoo Artist, Kat Von D, Do After Parting Ways with Miami Ink?

While the remaining artists at Miami Ink are extraordinarily talented, it was clear that Kat Von D, a maverick and mercurial tattoo artist who requires the occasional coddling, had become the epicenter of the show. Her talent far exceeds any quirks she may possess and it was pretty clear that homesickness played a substantial factor in her departure. Well, that and an ENORMOUS personality clash with head honcho, Ami James, who certainly does not lack the ability to express his true feelings.

Thus, it's back to California for Kat as "L.A. Ink" will reportedly be crashing the tube around August. This trustee in ink and artist cannot wait. For the record, I thoroughly enjoyed Miami Ink. However, I fully expect the shop in dastardly Dade to be overshadowed, and quickly, by the L.A. version. The clientele that Kat will be tending to will add quite a bit of flavor and intrigue that Miami simply will not be able to match. I suppose you can say that Kat will soon be overseeing the litter of what is certain to become a hot commodity for TV viewers.

Kat's impeccable black & white portraits really set her apart in what has become an ultra-competitive industry and she will be bringing her meow to the home in tinsel and treats should result in some very distinctive designs with a population that will bring more of an edge. One unique element of the upcoming show is not simply the celebrity aspect in terms of WHO comes in to receive a tattoo, but the PERSONALITY of the individual getting inked. While not overly combative, Kat does things her way. How will this mesh with the ........ well .......... self-serving and often smug landscape in Los Angeles? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure, it will make for fantastic television.

One thing to keep a close eye on will definitely be the RATINGS differential between Miami Ink and its new L.A. rival. I will offer forth yet another expansion of my earlier prediction and say that it will not take long before Ami realizes that he shot himself in the gluteus maximus with his own tattoo gun.
Rest in peace Miami Ink? That may be a tad premature. Then again, it may not be that far off.