A seasoned artist, Mark transitioned from a conventional career to tattoo artistry after a career shift in 2010. Encouraged by his passion for art and guided by a mentor in Widnes, Mark launched ‘Cut Throat Tattoo Studio’ in 2014. His decade-long journey has earned him a devoted clientele, leading to a recent triumph as ‘Tattoo Artist of the Year’ at the English Beauty Industry Awards.
In the dynamic world of tattoo artistry, Mark Cain is a testament to the transformative power of passion and resilience. A decade into his tattooing journey, Mark has crafted indelible ink and etched his name in the annals of recognition. The recent accolade as ‘Tattoo Artist of the Year’ at the English Beauty Industry Awards in Manchester is a crowning achievement for this seasoned artisan.
Mark’s artistic odyssey commenced in 2010 when he found himself at a professional crossroads due to redundancy. What followed was a serendipitous alignment of passion and opportunity. An art enthusiast, Mark had already dabbled in sketching portraits for locals in a pub. However, it was pivotal when a tattoo artist in Widnes recognized his potential and nudged him towards an apprenticeship. Little did Mark know that this leap of faith would pave the way for ‘Cut Throat Tattoo Studio,’ an establishment along Warrington Road that would become synonymous with skill and artistry.
Fast forward to 2023, and Mark has not just weathered the storms of change but has emerged victorious as an artist and a business owner. The heart of ‘Cut Throat Tattoo Studio beats with a client base that boasts 70% of returning customers. The testament lies not just in the ink that adorns the skin but in the commendations that echo Mark’s talent and the reasonable pricing that sets him apart.
The English Beauty Industry Awards in Manchester marked a historic moment for tattooing as it included a ‘Tattooist of the Year’ category. Among ten nominees, Mark Cain stood tall, securing the coveted title. Reflecting on this achievement, the 52-year-old artist expressed genuine surprise, acknowledging his solo journey in the challenging landscape of the tattoo industry.
Running a solo enterprise comes with its share of struggles, and the COVID-19 pandemic posed an additional hurdle. However, Mark’s commitment to transparency in pricing and a customer-centric approach has been the cornerstone of his success. Post-lockdown, ‘Cut Throat Tattoo Studio’ experienced a surge in activity, a testament to the enduring appeal of Mark’s work.
Cut Throat Tattoo Studio, on Warrington Road (Image: Google Maps)
Beyond the confines of his studio, Mark remains committed to contributing his art for good causes. Initiatives such as the Manchester Bee Appeal, Wigan and Leigh Hospice, Dementia Awareness, and the Alzheimer’s Society have benefited from Mark’s philanthropic endeavors.
Mark’s artistic prowess extends beyond the local scene, with recognition from his feature on the UBKB (Ultimate Bare Knuckle Boxing) Netflix series. As he basks in the glory of being crowned ‘Tattoo Artist of the Year,’ Mark Cain remains unwavering in his commitment to maintaining the high standards that have become synonymous with his name.