Often referred to as "the Godfather of the Modern Tattoo", and with more than 40 years of tattooing experience, Don Ed Hardy's skillful experimentation is the reason why he has achieved legendary status. He has masterfully combined icons from American, Japanese, and Cholo, cultures with surf, tattoo and hot rod designs to give his work a compelling effect.
Don Ed Hardy's career as a tattoo artist began in 1967 after he received a BFA degree from San Francisco Art Institute in printmaking. He lived in Japan in the 70s and 80s to refine his skill with traditional tattoo masters.
Christian Audigier was one of the fashion designers that were astounded by the imagery of Don Ed Hardy's tattoo art themes. Audigier and Hardy signed a licensing agreement in 2004 that granted the designer exclusive rights to use his designs.
Audigier’s charismatic and colorful approach to fashion, fueled by his jovial promotional strategy, allowed him to elevate the tattoo art of Don Hardy and create Ed Hardy shirts, Ed Hardy shoes, Ed Hardy belts, Ed Hardy eyewear, Ed Hardy hats and Ed Hardy Kids’ shoes. Ed Hardy is one of the hottest new brands and worn by celebrities and by the world.