Bruce Michael
Bruce Michael
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Confessions of a Prison Tattooer: Piper
A raw and intimate interview with Colorado tattooer and author, Piper.
Incarcerated for burglary at just 19 years old, Piper turned a 12 year sentence into a story of redemption. Tattooing, both illegal and incredibly dangerous in prison, became his lifeline-a way to survive, express, and transform. Today, he’s a celebrated artist, a husband, and a father.
His experiences are chronicled in the book, American Inkslinger, available now.
@the_paid_piper
Film by Bruce-Michael Grossman
@brucemichaelphoto
Переглядів: 4 385

Відео

Five Black & White Films You Must Watch
Переглядів 304Місяць тому
(Read this in a thick, New York accent, reminiscent of a deli worker) When I was a kid, I used to ditch school and go down to the Film Forum in Manhattan. Youse followin' me so far? I spent hours watching black & white films. When I started with the photography, I didn't touch color for yearrrrrs. In honor of my new film, Gangsters, here are 5 incredible black & white films that youse can watch...
Welcome To My Channel!
Переглядів 1,4 тис.Місяць тому
Hello, everyone! My name is Bruce, and I'm a filmmaker from New York City.
Gangsters: Tattoo Legends of Colfax - Documentary
Переглядів 52 тис.Місяць тому
A raw, black-and-white documentary tribute to the OGs of Denver tattooing and the legendary shop, The Emporium of Design. (IG: @emporiumofdesigntattoo) Starring: Scott Ferguson (IG: @helldoradoscott) Kim Schaefer (IG: @koloradokim) Rob Obrochta (IG: @rob.o.tattoo) Directed by: Bruce-Michael Grossman Cinematography / Editing by: Bruce-Michael Grossman Special thanks to Nik Pew & Dusty Ullerich!
Once in a Lifetime - Tattoo Documentary (4K, 1080p)
Переглядів 39 тис.2 місяці тому
A portrait of second generation LIFETIME tattooer, Isaac McDonald. @lifetime_isaac_srt Filmed at LIFETIME TATTOO in Denver, Colorado. @lifetimetattoodenver Directed by: Bruce-Michael Grossman Editing / Cinematography by: Bruce-Michael Grossman
SIDESHOW - THE ENIGMA - DOCUMENTARY SHORT (1080p, 4K)
Переглядів 10 тис.3 місяці тому
A magical portrait of legendary sideshow performer, THE ENIGMA. DISCLAIMER: The extreme feats featured in this film are performed by a trained professional with decades of experience. We are not responsible if you stupidly decide to attempt any of the feats performed in this film. Directed by Bruce-Michael Grossman Cinematography / Editing by Bruce-Michael Grossman
MUTINY - DOCUMENTARY SHORT (4K, 1080p)
Переглядів 15 тис.4 місяці тому
A documentary tribute to Mutiny Information Café in Denver, Colorado. A place where the beautifully strange can meet to grab a cup of coffee, play a hardcore show, or discover the author that destroys every pre-conceived notion of what it all means. Directed by Bruce-Michael Grossman Cinematography / Editing by Bruce Michael Grossman
THE PROCESS - Short Horror Film (4K, 1080p)
Переглядів 3 тис.6 місяців тому
An ambitious filmmaker hires a cinematographer to document the making of what he calls, “the greatest film ever made.” Starring: George Tsouris Arielle Hope Soft Abilez Written by: Bruce-Michael Grossman George Tsouris Directed by: Bruce-Michael Grossman Cinematography / Editing by: Bruce-Michael Grossman
FRANK - Tattoo Documentary (1080p)
Переглядів 2,7 тис.6 місяців тому
FRANK is a psychedelic documentary portrait of Denver tattoo artist, Frank Simanton. Archival footage and music courtesy of the Simanton family.
THE FIGHT (2021) - DOCUMENTARY SHORT (1080p)
Переглядів 1649 місяців тому
The Fighter is a documentary short about an aspiring Muay Thai fighter working his way back up the Colorado fight circuit. Starring: Matt Gruenig

КОМЕНТАРІ

  • @AustinD1993
    @AustinD1993 2 дні тому

    Beautiful work

  • @AustinD1993
    @AustinD1993 2 дні тому

    Awesome Interview.

  • @IamRio04
    @IamRio04 2 дні тому

    bro, were you about to punch that guy in the face? 🤣🤣

  • @justinreid992
    @justinreid992 3 дні тому

    I met Piper at bent county. We were cellies at delta. We worked in maintenance together. All day almost everyday he was painting or drawing. Piper gave my nick name. He called me Chub Hottie! Cause I'm fat and sexy! I have tattoos from him and so do my friends and family. My daughter will be getting her first tattoo in a couple months from my good friend and the sickest artist I know. Much love and respect!

  • @katie9663
    @katie9663 4 дні тому

    What a great interview! You are such an inspiration to so many people. Not to mention how talented u r! I'm so proud to see the growth of the man you have been becoming. You deserve so much in this world and I'm happy to see you taking the reins of life, love and happiness! Miss you brother!

  • @walkeralex1989
    @walkeralex1989 4 дні тому

    Thank you for the eye into this world

  • @michaelr.4878
    @michaelr.4878 4 дні тому

    Really good interview. Both the interview itself and the production/editing. Good job, dude.

  • @franksimanton1239
    @franksimanton1239 5 днів тому

    Wow. Fantastic work as usual Bruce! And piper you killed it! Maybe I'm biased but how does Bruce's work keep getting better and better and better

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 5 днів тому

      Lots of weed. Thanks, brother!

    • @The_paid_piper
      @The_paid_piper 4 дні тому

      Thanks a ton Frank... Bruce has an eye matched only by his passion... and your story, your film and premiere was inspiring and definitely paved the way 🙏

    • @The_paid_piper
      @The_paid_piper 4 дні тому

      ​@@BruceMichaelFilms😂😂😂

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 3 дні тому

      @@The_paid_piper🔥🔥🙏

  • @Thenightpainter33
    @Thenightpainter33 5 днів тому

    I subscribed. Awesome interview! I have been tattooing for 40 yrs. Just started an art channel. Please check it out.

  • @beaucockcroft9639
    @beaucockcroft9639 5 днів тому

    Piper was my celly for about 4 years in bent county. We've been through some tough times together, as well as some amazing times as well. I was his sketch pad as he was starting to tattoo. In my eyes he's an amazing person all around, and an amazing artist. Nothing but love for you brother. I got your 6 always.🌎✌🏼👽B

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 5 днів тому

      I’m sure this interview brought back memories! Thank you for watching.

    • @The_paid_piper
      @The_paid_piper 4 дні тому

      Much love brother... I really appreciate you, and our time together

  • @ZyKeLowne
    @ZyKeLowne 5 днів тому

    This interview is really great Bruce! Thank you for sharing real, great art.

  • @_thewarriorpoet
    @_thewarriorpoet 5 днів тому

    What a crazy perspective. People really need to be reminded of these stories, well done

  • @nastystuntin5873
    @nastystuntin5873 5 днів тому

    Piper has been a good friend on mine for over18 years. On the streets and DOC. First time we meet was in limon correction facility DOC. his skill have been on point even behind bars. I was one of the lookout people (someone who watches for gaurds walking or making rounds) just to get free work from him and another artist. Because of him is when i started trying to learn. At that time limon was the most dangerous prison to be in but we made it work and came out stronger then ever. Piper has been one of the best artist I have seen come out and kill the game with his style on the streets. He has been a solid dude since day one and happy I get to go to him on the streets for my work like I did in limon. You can't go wrong by coming to him. His style speaks for itself. He has made a solid name and because amazing family man 💪💪

  • @Awmsies
    @Awmsies 5 днів тому

  • @rejektbmx
    @rejektbmx 5 днів тому

    What an awesome interview!! I was fortunate enough to be Pipers tech man in Rifle Correctional Center , we had a perfect set up and tattooed for hours never got caught. Tattooing in Prison is definitely an art. I'm lucky enough to have been tattooed by him in and out of prison and call him a Brother.

  • @seancorbett1575
    @seancorbett1575 5 днів тому

    Great interview! Piper is definitely one hell of an artist, and I'm glad to hear the story behind how Piper became a tattoo artist! Badass!!

  • @davegell1985
    @davegell1985 6 днів тому

    Piper unearthing truth about lives not a lot of people understand. Respect Piper!!

  • @kaosreigns5150
    @kaosreigns5150 6 днів тому

    Hell yea!! This is awesome!! Keep the momentum brother!!!

  • @brianpite0893
    @brianpite0893 6 днів тому

    Great interview

  • @nickmarincic4739
    @nickmarincic4739 6 днів тому

    Love the passion. You can feel it’s genuine. True artist.

  • @zanemitchell6105
    @zanemitchell6105 6 днів тому

    Absolutely amazing interview with an absolutely amazing individual. I've known Piper for 18 years, both in Prison and out here on the streets. Watching the growth of my brother from the penitentiary tattoo artist to the family man making tattooing a career has been a lovely thing to see. He was definitely the most sought after tattoo artist on the yard and always on the grind. Now I have the pleasure of having him torture me out here with all of the great advancements the industry has to offer. Keep the hits coming, my friends.

  • @locoradoentertainment119
    @locoradoentertainment119 6 днів тому

    Good shit Piper 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽 some of the sickest paintings I recall in Delta together 2010-2011 #MrFreestylez. Stay Blessed Brotha 💯

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 6 днів тому

      Appreciate you watching!

    • @The_paid_piper
      @The_paid_piper 4 дні тому

      Thank you brotha... Delta was a blast... thanks to OG's like you 💪💪💪

    • @locoradoentertainment119
      @locoradoentertainment119 4 дні тому

      @@The_paid_piper from behind bars to the moon 🌕 and the stars✨ my brotha… 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms День тому

      @@locoradoentertainment119🙏

  • @Q_barkbark
    @Q_barkbark 6 днів тому

    Bruce, is unmatched, true artist.

  • @Omerta303tattoo
    @Omerta303tattoo 6 днів тому

    Heks yeah Homie this is a great interview you both are friggin great at what you do no doubt I couldn’t of Asked for a tighter Homie behind those walls I can’t even tell you how many stories I’ve told About our convict excursions And what a blessing to be able to laugh And reminisce on the bricksabout the old times behind the walls Duckin and diving the man I’m so proud of you my brotha You have exceeded many expectations from many You are truly blessed my brotha You need is a true honor to continue to spend time with you at the studio getting it in and breading new memories

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 6 днів тому

      Appreciate both of y’all! Thank you so much for the memories.

    • @The_paid_piper
      @The_paid_piper 4 дні тому

      Thanks brother... yeah we're lucky to be out here doing what we love... and even luckier that we still get to do it together... much love full blast 🤘

    • @The_paid_piper
      @The_paid_piper 4 дні тому

      ​@@BruceMichaelFilmsyou're the man... thank you

  • @AllisonMongan-s8d
    @AllisonMongan-s8d 6 днів тому

    Amazing

  • @beanqueen4568
    @beanqueen4568 6 днів тому

    Sensational work as always.

  • @DannyHidalgo
    @DannyHidalgo 6 днів тому

    Loved this.

  • @th3adv3rsari
    @th3adv3rsari 6 днів тому

    u silly g00se, u jocked my guy over at "soft white underbelly" u goofy goober! dont think no one noticed! haha im just giving u a hard time. but yeah, this dude talks a good game, but i guaruntee hes no where near celebrity status like he acts lol and we definitely are not invincible like a lot of people seem to think lol. this dude is such a silly g00se tho, made me chuckle for the first time today hahah. and i definitely paid someone to hold all my shit, whenever i needed it, my guy brought it all to me, and when i was done he put it all up. and he was compensated very well.

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 6 днів тому

      You know what they say, when you make stuff that makes people write dumbass comments, you’re doing something right. Best of luck to you. ❤

  • @ěggy2269
    @ěggy2269 6 днів тому

    You were amazing. Your " I don't know bout all that" comment tho lol

  • @juliaduarte8687
    @juliaduarte8687 7 днів тому

    That was wild 😂

  • @M-D-K
    @M-D-K 7 днів тому

    I've watched a couple of the tattoo films now, great work. Really captures the zeitgeist of my early experience with tattoo shops.

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 7 днів тому

      What was that experience like for you? And thank you for watching!

    • @M-D-K
      @M-D-K 7 днів тому

      @@BruceMichaelFilms in comparison with some of the videos, I suppose it's fairly new; actually getting tattooed, early 2000s, but, myself and friends used to sneak around and try to peek into the 1 shop we had on island when I was growing up. Back then, by law, they had to have barriers and such to prevent people from seeing in the shop so that added to the mystique. The shop was on an end terrace by an alley just down the road, a converted house. Later, the next shop that opened was ran by a couple of 'scary' guys and had that whole vibe of it's gotta be earned etc. After hanging out though and going back time and time again it all changes, you get by the facade and shit-talk and shoot-the-shit yourself 😁 I gave him a lot of ideas, I was the first blackout a few years back. 17 or 19 mag to pack it right, none of the silly giant ones you see on socials.

  • @classactkirk
    @classactkirk 8 днів тому

    Walt and Isaac know what's up

  • @johnmiller9115
    @johnmiller9115 12 днів тому

    I had Suger Bear tattoo me at the Emporium of Design in the late 1980's.

  • @yellowmambaaa9489
    @yellowmambaaa9489 17 днів тому

    God bless you man. Jesus Christ loves you always. Keep at it man. Jesus Christ saves alone!

  • @Tattooper
    @Tattooper 19 днів тому

    We need far more of this on yt. Great video.

  • @MiamiHighCo
    @MiamiHighCo 21 день тому

    Here from the Once in a life time vid, dunno who you are but I subscribed for the ride. Loved it. Thank you.

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 21 день тому

      @@MiamiHighCo oh I’m nobody special. Just a filmmaker from NYC who has lived in Colorado for about 7 years. I appreciate you checking out my work and supporting. It means a lot!

  • @ScottFerguson-h3d
    @ScottFerguson-h3d 21 день тому

    Isaac is the real deal!!!!

  • @MiamiHighCo
    @MiamiHighCo 21 день тому

    I was the 666th like

  • @michaeltestani9867
    @michaeltestani9867 23 дні тому

    Great cinematography what did you shoot it with?

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 23 дні тому

      @@michaeltestani9867 thank you brother! This was done with a Sony A6000!

  • @user-ih6oe9ny3j
    @user-ih6oe9ny3j 23 дні тому

    Bro stood on business on WWYD, respect

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 23 дні тому

      @@user-ih6oe9ny3j thank you brother! I hope you enjoy my work.

  • @LaliladaAnamina
    @LaliladaAnamina 25 днів тому

    Respect brother🙏🏾❤️ subbed!

  • @skylightergacha6791
    @skylightergacha6791 27 днів тому

    I’m here watching from what would you do! You deserve the views

  • @lewismclean25
    @lewismclean25 29 днів тому

    Rad! Congrats man!

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 29 днів тому

      Thanks brother! Let me know what you think of my work if you get a chance.

  • @nexusobserve
    @nexusobserve 29 днів тому

    5:26 Car - vaj - eeee - oh important painter to learn

  • @Leuel48Fan
    @Leuel48Fan 29 днів тому

    Hey quick question, when did that happen? Curious roughly how long it takes them to produce/edit/air these shows! Thanks

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 29 днів тому

      @@Leuel48Fan I think it was like 2 months prior? It all happened rather quickly.

    • @Leuel48Fan
      @Leuel48Fan 28 днів тому

      @@BruceMichaelFilms Neat! Nice to hear they still produce the show lately! 👍🏼

  • @AudreyHaase-il7ln
    @AudreyHaase-il7ln 29 днів тому

    Literally the best intro 🙌 I'll check out these films. Thanks!

    • @BruceMichaelFilms
      @BruceMichaelFilms 29 днів тому

      I’d love your thoughts, Audrey! Thank you so much.

  • @canaldojesa
    @canaldojesa Місяць тому

    Here from the Brazil you deserve the support for the what would you do support for the blind guy !

  • @Uttkuuuu
    @Uttkuuuu Місяць тому

    W channel like you! I hope it continues

  • @MAGESWARANALSASIKUMARSASIKUMAR
    @MAGESWARANALSASIKUMARSASIKUMAR Місяць тому

    Such a kibd person you take imediate action when that thief tries to steal form the blind guy❤️ and i subed you

  • @walkeralex1989
    @walkeralex1989 Місяць тому

    Love this B&W grade