T-Man Makes Its Mark on Old Echo Curio Spot

Formerly known as the Echo Curio, the eye-catching storefront at 1519 Sunset Blvd. is getting a fresh coat of baby blue paint today, thanks to new tenant T-Man Tat-2, a tattoo shop that will open on Jan. 15.

When art gallery and performance space Echo Curio was forced by the LAPD to close its doors in mid-December due to permiting issues, locals wondered what would fill the high-profile spot next. It seems, the answer is written in ink.

"We're not just doing an assembly line here," said owner Howard Teman. "It's not an off-the-wall kind of place. It's one on one--artsy."

Known primarily for his rock 'n' roll-themed, pen-and-ink posterwork, Teman also owns T-Man Tattoo in Studio City.

The Echo Park shop will feature two tattoo chairs and a piercing station, and, much like its predeccesor, the shop will keep late hours to cater to the after-show and bar crowd.

But, Teman promised, "We're not just trying to get people in and rush them out."

You can also expect to see an upright piano--and possibly an impromptu musical performance.

According to Teman, the shop's aesthetic will be "hippie cool"--maybe that is why they plan to leave the multi-hued blue paintjob on the outside of the building.