I'll start by Introducing myself...

My name is Anthony "MEATLOAF" Benavides. Born and raised in the lovely state of Michigan. I chose the career path of a Professional Body Piercer. I started my Apprenticeship under Richard Fisher just 1 year before he opened his own Studio. My career began in August of 2003 when Gentleman Rich opened the doors at Division Tattoo in Madison Heights, Michigan.

I have permits with Oakland County , Michigan & Bakersfield, Ca. to practice "Body Art", A certificate of completion for "Bloodborne Pathogens Training" (Updated Yearly), Two certificates of Attendance from Steve Haworth for " Successful Surface to Surface Piercing" (2004 & 2008) and One in Successful Genital Bead Placement. Along with a certificate from Trevor Thomas & Sean Dowdell in "Successful MicroDermal Placement". I had the pleasure to attend Rob Hill's seminar on Microdermals as well. (No certificate included) I am also certified in " Standard First Aid", "Adult CPR" & "Infant/child CPR" recognized by the American Red Cross.(Updated Accordingly) As of May of 2006 I was able to attend my first "Association of Professional Piercers" (APP) Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. Where I was able to attend over a dozen Industry related seminars. (which I also have a certificate for) I make it a point to continue growing my knowledge on the subject of the human body and anything related to the Body Arts.

My job has been more than a career for me but a Lifestyle that I will always enjoy being apart of. I am currently living and working in Bakersfield, Ca. sense February 2007. Through out my career I've had the pleasure of working with many Very Talented Tattoo Artists, but very few Piercers. My goal is to work along side other Piercing Professionals so we can pool our thoughts and talents together to provide the Best Service offered in the Industry. I am very LUCKY to say I am able to grow and learn along side my girlfriend Mandy "DeadSexy" Snyder who is a working Professional Tattoo Artist. (Retired Piercer) Through Out our careers we've had the pleasure to work along side one another. With her as my inspiration, all of this as been possible for me. In the time we've been together she helped me find a more creative side of myself. With her guidance I've learned I have an interest and possibly an inspiring talent for Painting and Creating Art! I work with Acrylics, Watercolors, and Mixed Media Art.

I currently work for Pretty in Ink Tattoo & Body Piercing in Bakersfield, Ca.