Tattoo Artist in Owensboro Impacts Customers with Sacred Marks
OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEHT) — A tattoo artist from Owensboro is not only leaving marks but also instilling hope. Having conquered prolonged struggles with addiction, Terry Baughn Jr. utilizes his personal journey, artistic abilities, and beliefs to motivate others.
Initially, Sacred Marks appears to be just another tattoo parlor.
“My children…I recently bought a five-bedroom house for them. Five years ago, at Friends of Sinners, I was homeless with nothing but a bag of clothing,” states Baughn.
Within, each puncture with a needle pens a chapter in TJ Baughn’s tale of salvation.
“I was once a severe drug addict and alcoholic. My upbringing involved a lot of partying and similar activities. One day, I came across a tattoo machine at a flea market, which led me to start doing street tattoos,” he explains.
His journey towards recovery started further along the way at Friends of Sinners, a faith-based rehabilitation program focused on Christ.
5 years after he left that flea market, he says he had a big encounter with God.
“The individuals he brought into my life, like my pastor, I likely have about 200 brothers in my contacts who I could reach out to at this moment,” states Baughn.
Baughn completed the program in 2022 and has now been professionally tattooing for ten years.
The doors of Sacred Marks opened in October. Three weeks ago, Skyler Chilton joined as an apprentice.
Chilton is additionally the offspring of her father Baughn, who serves as a pastor, and she has observed his development throughout the years.
“It has assisted me in realizing that humans err and that one should be more compassionate toward oneself, which I believe everyone ought to do,” states Chilton.
The mentoring goes further than just the employees. For Baughn, each tattoo appointment offers an opportunity to build connections and provide encouragement.
“I wouldn’t claim to be perfect or anything like that. People share their concerns with me, and I assist them in navigating through challenges and difficulties. In turn, they often produce something remarkable,” explains Baughn.
Baughn expresses his gratitude for having the Friends of Sinners community, which ensures he will always have support. He views each new day as an opportunity to grow stronger, gain wisdom, and look after his loved ones.
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