Chapter 2: Chasing the American Dream
The lure of a more promising future pulled the Pho family across the ocean once more, this time to the United States. Their American Dream began with the English Second Language courses that would open new doors. Robert’s foray into business began early, kneading dough in his family’s donut shop at thirteen. Yet alongside early lessons in entrepreneurship came darker experiences of bullying and prejudice that would shape his troubled teenage years.
Chapter 1: Early Struggles and Resilience
Born in the shadow of conflict in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in 1972, Robert Pho’s life began amidst turmoil. His family fled the Khmer Rouge, finding refuge in France. This marked the beginning of a life built on adaptation and survival. Over eight years, the Phos carved out a life in France, with young Robert steeping himself in the culture and language that would form one of his many linguistic pillars.
Chapter 3: Turbulent Times
Southern California’s gang culture drew Robert in, leading to a spiral of violence that culminated in a 14-year sentence at the tender age of seventeen. Behind bars, a silver lining appeared in the form of a tattoo needle. What started as a pastime blossomed into a lifelong passion, as Robert discovered his innate talent for ink.
Chapter 4: Redemption and Reinvention
Upon release, Robert turned to honest work — telemarketing, real estate, sales. Tattooing remained a sideline pursuit until a fateful decision to move to North Carolina shifted his destiny. There, Robert found himself co-owning Skin Design Tattoo, a pivotal step toward his eventual full ownership of the brand.
Chapter 5: Loss, Triumph, and Expansion
Tragedy struck in 2004, when Robert’s father was robbed and murdered. This heartbreaking event pulled Robert back west, closer to his roots and into the bustling lights of Las Vegas. He turned his grief into motivation, propelling Skin Design Tattoo to new heights with multiple locations, including an iconic Las Vegas flagship.
Chapter 6: East Coast Ventures and Beyond
An indomitable spirit drove expansion to Hawaii, the urban landscapes of New York, and back to California. Yet for Robert, it wasn't enough to revolutionize just his domain — he broke new ground by offering client financing, a tattoo industry first.
Chapter 7: Media Spotlight and Industry Recognition
2023 highlighted Robert’s increasing visibility. From LA Times, Fox LA to KTLA and OC Register features, Robert and Skin Design Tattoo became media favorites. The tattoo virtuoso then brought his expertise to the All Stars Tattoo Expo as a guest judge, further solidifying his status as an industry authority.
Chapter 8: Innovations and International Footprint
By November 2023, Robert was at the forefront of comfort in tattooing, joining hands with a Beverly Hills doctor to provide anesthesia for tattoo sessions. His fame cemented by a front-page appearance in Tattoo Industry Magazine and a pioneering venture into Tokyo marked the beginning of an international saga.
Chapter 9: Diversification and Milestones
In a strategic business maneuver, Skin Design Tattoo joined forces with Fernie Andrade and Big Sleeps hatched MergerInk in January 2024, stepping into manufacturing and supply chain management. That same year celebrated a decade at their Spring Mountain location in Las Vegas, a quarter-century of the Skin Design Tattoo brand, and 35 incredible years of Robert wielding the tattoo machine.
MORE THAN JUST A TATTOO ARTIST
Renowned tattoo artist and entrepreneur Robert Pho has carved a unique and influential path in the industry. For over three decades, his exceptional talent has consistently transformed bodies into breathtaking works of art, earning him international acclaim.
Committed to creating a tattoo empire, Robert established Skin Design Tattoos over 25 years ago. Today, it thrives with 8 U.S. studios and ambitious plans for international expansion.
Robert's signature style of black and gray realism has earned him a devoted following and positioned him as a leader in the tattooing world. His dedication to technical precision and artistic detail creates breathtaking realism, consistently pushing the boundaries of what's possible with ink.
More than just a master of his craft, Robert is a driving force in the tattoo industry. He is a constant source of inspiration and innovation, shaping the future of tattoo artistry through mentorship and a commitment to pushing creative boundaries.
Robert's upcoming ventures promise to be even more groundbreaking, fusing cutting-edge techniques with his artistic vision to redefine the tattoo experience. Stay tuned for exclusive collaborations, innovative designs, and visionary initiatives that will leave a lasting legacy on the art of tattooing.
