Anthony M. "Tony" Olivas

1963 - 2022

Anthony "Tony" M. Olivas, 58, regarded by the tattoo community as a world-renowned icon of a distinct black and grey art form, died on September 9, 2022. A Tucson native, Tony was born on November 2, 1963. His tattooing interest began at age 15. His style evolved to embody historical, mythical and religious imageries. It spawned a renaissance type impact on the American tattoo community appeal and future tattooists. His celebrity gained rapid recognition in Europe, Australia, Canada, Mexico, and Panama. He opened his flagship studio, Sacred Heart Tattoo in Atlanta Georgia's Little Five Points district in 1994, later three studios. He co-founded The Atlanta Tattoo Expo in 1996 that showcased other world-renowned artists in the tattoo industry. His remarkable journey included over 100 world titles, articles, and featured works in every major tattoo magazine worldwide, and a tattoo display at the National Museum of Natural History in New York City. Tony is predeceased by his parents Henry and Lupe Olivas; grandparents Henry and Cora Olivas, and Rudy & Eva Leon; brother Enrique Olivas; aunts Cecilia (Julio d) Lara, Barbara (Joaquin d) Gonzalez, Diana Olivas; and uncle Rudy Leon. He is survived by his sons, James Olivas, Slade Olivas and Colt Olivas; sister Evelyn Olivas; brothers Frank, Jose (Aimee), Alex and Miguel Olivas; uncles Gary (Gloria) Olivas, Steve (Debra) Olivas, aunt Virginia Wortman; 23 nieces and nephews; 21 first- and 43 second- cousins. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 2, 2022 at Puerta Antigua, 5358 S Nogales Hwy, Tucson, AZ. A Rosary will be recited at 7pm, followed with a eulogy and sharing memories. Hors-d'oeuvres and drinks to be served.