Ellicottville, NY is unique in that it is known for both its wintery, snow-coated landscapes as well as its majestic, amber fall foliage. This past season was a fantastic example of both, something that undoubtedly inspired many artists - professional and amateur - to paint, photograph and Instagram a tremendous amount of EVL-inspired artwork.
Springtime in this area is a different matter though. At times it seems that the phrase, “April showers bring May flowers” was created in Western New York. It takes patience and waiting through some very dreary days to get to the more stunning times of the season here. And those dreary days aren’t the most artistically inspiring.
Or are they?
One young, entrepreneurial local man has set out to produce art all year round and has set up shop in downtown Ellicottville. Meet Vinny Bielli, founder of EVL Ink Tattoo and Apparel. In a community of some very talented artists, Bielli’s goal is to bring a new facet of art to the village of Ellicottville. It doesn’t matter what the season is; Vinny Bielli is inspired and looking forward to producing permanent pieces of art.
A NATURAL DRAW
Imagine knowing exactly what you wanted to do from a young age. Far too often, childhood dreams are set aside and replaced by adult realities. But from a very early age, Bielli had a natural draw towards tattooing. This inspired him to begin drawing throughout grade school and high school. The older he got, the more he drew. He worked to refine his pen control and experiment with the meticulous details of shading and definition. Like any good student, he also paid a lot of attention to other artists.
“Most of my influences are tattoo artists,” said Bielli. “I really like west coast style, but I like all forms of art though - oil paintings, digital art, pen and pencil … all kinds.”
“I love tattooing because it feels really accomplishing when I put art onto skin and the customer loves it,” Bielli said. “I love the reaction!”
In terms of tattoo style, Bielli says he likes to dabble in as many styles as possible. “I love black and grey realism, but I like doing any style. I like to be diverse in what I do.”
No doubt Bielli’s diversification will help him drum up potential new business in an area where tattoo shops haven’t been exactly mainstream.
Ellicottville was an untapped market in terms of tattoo shops, which is one of the many factors that convinced Bielli to open up shop in the new plaza behind the Kwik Fill. “I was worried about starting something new in Ellicottville, but so far I’m getting a great response and I’m very busy! I couldn’t be happier. Glad I opened in EVL.”
Having strong local roots also helps elevate some of the opening concerns a tremendous amount. “I’m from Cattaraugus, so I know a lot of people from this area.”
BEYOND THE INK
Bielli’s talent is evident when you first walk into the shop. Crisp, clean wood grain floors coincide with a fully stocked unique apparel line. The shop has a laid back, welcoming vibe and the employees are clearly well versed with the Ellicottville scene. Locals will recognize the EVL Rocks t-shirts and tattoo enthusiasts will be thrilled to see the Sullen Art brand in the shop. And if you’re into the ski/snowboard scene and tattoos, make sure you check out the Sullen Art and Grenade collaboration.
For a start-up shop that is being backed by a young man in his early 20’s, the operation looks to have plenty of potential. Talk with Bielli and he is quick to emphasize how important it is to him that his shop looks impeccable and professional. His vision extends beyond the ink he so cleanly lays out on skin to a place where he can see the big picture.
In an area where so many livelihoods depend on a deep-rooted passion (be it for golf, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, etc.), Vinny Bielli hopes to help fuel people’s passion for artwork.
Search EVL Ink Tattoo and Apparel on Facebook to view all the freshest ink coming out of the shop. Bielli’s shop is located at 5 E. Washington Street, Ellicottville, NY 14731, phone 716-699-1048.
