Bios:
Dave Koenig is a prolific painter, tattooist, and the owner of The Oak Tattoo in Omaha, Nebraska. With a career spanning more than two decades, he has been tattooing both locally and internationally since 2001, earning recognition for his distinctive style and artistic range. Dave’s work has been exhibited at tattoo conventions, festivals, and fine art galleries around the world, including Into the Woods Fine Art Gallery in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as well as The New BLK, In Common, and Bemis Underground in Omaha. His artistic foundation was shaped through five years of fine arts study at the University of Nebraska Omaha, where he also explored Anthropology and Native American Studies—disciplines that continue to inform the depth and symbolism in his work. Dave also spent two years teaching art, first at Pact Center School in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and then at The St. Augustine School on the Winnebago Reservation. Dave’s artistic style draws heavily from the historic culture and design principles of Japanese art, particularly its use of pattern and composition. His work also reflects the imagery and antiquity of Traditional Americana and Art Nouveau, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and richly detailed.
Chris Martini is a seasoned tattoo artist and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in the industry. He began tattooing in Omaha in October 2003 and has since developed a well-rounded and highly respected practice rooted in both technical skill and artistic depth. Chris specializes in traditional and Japanese color work, with a particular appreciation for the history and craftsmanship of Japanese tattooing. His versatility also extends to black and grey and neo-traditional styles, allowing him to create dynamic, customized pieces for a wide range of clients. Chris is the owner of Paper Crane Tattoo, a distinctive tattoo studio and independent bookstore in Omaha, Nebraska, which he co-founded with his wife, Nikki, in September 2025. Prior to this, he opened and operated Nebraska Electric Tattoo Company in Lincoln, Nebraska, further establishing his presence in the regional tattoo community. Outside of his professional work, Chris is a dedicated family man and creative. He enjoys painting, staying active, and spending time at home with his wife and their three children. Having lived for several years in the Pacific Northwest, he continues to draw inspiration from the culture and natural surroundings of that region.
