How Thaddeus Curry of Toye Shop Ink is Leading the Next Generation of Tattoo Artists
When people think of tattooing, they often think of bold lines and permanent statements. But when you meet Thaddeus Curry, Tattoo Artist and founder of Toye Shop Ink, you realize tattooing can be so much more. Known for his imaginative illustrative realism and striking color palettes, Thaddeus has made a name for himself in Lexington, South Carolina. His studio isn’t just a place to get inked—it’s where aspiring Tattoo Artists come to learn, grow, and refine their craft.
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From Army Veteran to Tattoo Mentor: Thaddeus Curry’s Journey
Thaddeus’s journey into tattooing began in 2008, but his love for art and storytelling stretches back to his earliest years. After serving in the Army, Thaddeus brought his discipline and determination to a new creative outlet: tattooing. With a Bachelor’s degree in Media Arts and Animation and a Master’s in Media Design, he combines a deep understanding of technical design with artistic passion.
Today, Thaddeus is a skilled Tattoo Artist and a dedicated Mentor. Through his role with Ink Different Tattoo School, he has helped shape the future of tattooing, offering apprentices hands-on training and guidance that only comes from years of experience.
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
What Makes Toye Shop Ink Special?
Founded in 2014, Toye Shop Ink is more than just a Tattoo Studio—it’s a hub for artistic excellence and mentorship. Co-managed by his wife, Shikila, the studio is committed to quality, professionalism, and safety. This veteran-owned business has earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and is approved by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
At Toye Shop Ink, tattoo apprentices don’t just learn how to tattoo; they know how to thrive in the industry. Thaddeus ensures that every tattoo apprentice understands the importance of client collaboration, technical precision, and professional integrity.
Did you know our tattoo school, Ink Different, has locations in several exciting cities across the United States? We do! We have locations in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Orange County, Chicago, Tampa, Miami, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Atlanta and Connecticut.
Thaddeus Curry and his Role with Ink Different Tattoo School
In 2024, Thaddeus Curry partnered with Ink Different Tattoo School to expand its Tattoo Apprenticeship Program into South Carolina. His partnership brings the school’s mission of education and inclusivity to the Columbia area, offering aspiring Tattoo Artists the opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry.
This program gives apprentices access to a structured curriculum, state-of-the-art tools, and, most importantly, Thaddeus’s expert mentorship. Known for his illustrative realism and bold color work, Thaddeus teaches apprentices how to master their craft while encouraging them to develop their unique style.
His role goes beyond teaching technical skills—Thaddeus helps apprentices build confidence, understand client relationships, and navigate the tattoo industry professionally. He’s not just preparing them to succeed; he’s preparing them to stand out.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
Building a Community of Artists
Thaddeus’s partnership with Ink Different Tattoo School isn’t just about creating artists—it’s about creating a community. Apprentices leave the program with the skills, support, and mentorship they need to thrive, while clients benefit from the innovative work of the next generation of Tattoo Artists.
For Thaddeus, this is the heart of tattooing: sharing knowledge, fostering creativity, and leaving a lasting impact.
Learn more about the profession on our website or read how to change careers and become a Tattoo Artist!
Toye Shop Ink and Ink Different Tattoo Schools
Thaddeus Curry has redefined what it means to be a Tattoo Artist in Columbia. Through Toye Shop Ink and his work with Ink Different Tattoo School, he’s shaping the industry’s future, one apprentice at a time.
If you’re ready to start your tattooing journey under the guidance of a seasoned Mentor, visit Ink Different Tattoo School to learn more about the apprenticeship program and how to apply.
Ink Different Tattoo School: Elevating Tattoo Education Nationwide
At Ink Different Tattoo School, we’re not just shaping artists—we’re shaping careers. Our Tattoo Apprenticeship Program is designed to provide aspiring Tattoo Artists with a structured, comprehensive, and supportive pathway into the tattoo industry. Traditional tattoo apprenticeships often lack structure and guidance. Our program emphasizes hands-on training with experienced mentors like Thaddeus Curry, who brings years of expertise. We teach from tattoo techniques to learning the ins and outs of running a successful studio. Therefore, our apprentices gain the knowledge and confidence they need to thrive!
One of the standout features of Ink Different Tattoo School is our Guaranteed Job Offer upon completion of the apprenticeship. We believe in our students and their ability to excel in the tattoo industry. That’s why we prioritize connecting our graduates with immediate employment opportunities in one of our Tattoo Studios or our extended network of industry partners. This guarantee isn’t just about securing a job but launching a career.
Our Tattoo Apprenticeship Program covers everything from safety and hygiene practices to advanced tattooing techniques. But it doesn’t stop there. We also guide apprentices on customer service, branding, and building a solid portfolio. Our curriculum is designed to set them up for long-term success as artists and professionals in a competitive field.
Inclusivity Through Language and Culture
At Ink Different Tattoo School, we understand the importance of language and cultural inclusivity in education. That’s why we proudly offer tattoo training in Spanish at our New York City, Chicago, Tampa, Greenville, Orlando, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale locations. This ensures that Spanish-speaking apprentices can learn and grow in an environment that feels welcoming and accessible.
In addition, we speak Portuguese at our Dallas and Orlando locations. This creates even more opportunities for aspiring Tattoo Artists to join the industry. Our commitment to inclusivity isn’t just about language. It’s about creating a diverse, supportive community where every apprentice can succeed.
