EARL FUNK

Earl Funk | Co-Owner & Illustrative Specialist

20+ Years of High-Energy Artistry in Orlando

Earl Funk didn’t just become an artist; he started before he even left high school. From painting murals on bedroom walls and local businesses to co-founding The East Tattoo, Earl has spent over two decades defining a style that is instantly recognizable across Central Florida.

Since starting his professional journey in 2002, Earl has become a fixture of the Orlando tattoo scene, known for a relentless creative engine that never stops. Whether he’s working on a canvas, a wall, or skin, his work is defined by the bold line weights and saturated colors that first drew him to the New School legends like Jime Litwalk and Tony Ciavaro.

Style & Specialties: Illustrative Mashups & Florida Roots

Earl’s work sits at the intersection of New School energy and Custom Illustration. He has a particular love for:

• Florida-Centric Art: Tropical flora, swamp life, and local icons with a weird twist.

• Creative Mashups: Fun, bizarre, and humorous concepts that challenge the norm.

• Large-Scale Storytelling: Earl specializes in full sleeves, leg pieces, and back pieces, enjoying the endless possibilities—and the friendships—that come with long-term projects.

• Custom "Bangers": High-impact, one-shot tattoos for those looking for instant gratification and a sharp, custom design.

The Philosophy Behind The East

As a co-owner, Earl’s mission was simple: build the best possible environment for artists. He believes that by fostering a space where creativity is the priority, the best talent in the industry will follow. This "artist-first" culture is what makes The East Tattoo a premier destination for custom ink in Orlando.

Custom From the Ground Up

Everything Earl tattoos is 100% custom. Whether he is working from your specific concept or a piece of his own original flash, every line is drawn with the specific client in mind. When other artists hit a wall, Earl is the one still at the drawing board, constantly refining his craft and exploring new mediums. His books are currently open. Just fill out the form below and he’ll be in touch soon.