Representing East LA

As a child, Salvador Preciado found his first artistic inspiration in the pages of Gray’s Anatomy, tracing detailed images with a curious fascination. A teacher once admonished him to “give it something extra” after noticing he was copying illustrations from books—a challenge Sal embraced. Growing up in East Los Angeles, his creativity flourished in a neighborhood brimming with cultural identity. Sal was particularly captivated by the bold, unapologetic tattoos sported by local gang members, whose strong lines and distinct style became a cornerstone of his artistic curiosity. He began honing his craft, not just refining the style but reimagining it, blending its essence with his growing artistic vision.
Today, Sal channels that passion as the proud owner of El Clasico Tattoo in Echo Park. His shop stands as a beacon of East LA’s rich cultural identity, with each tattoo serving as a tribute to its bold and authentic spirit. For Sal, tattooing is more than an art form—it’s a way to elevate the pride of his community, one intricate design at a time. Through El Clasico Tattoo, he brings tradition, innovation, and a sense of belonging to the neighborhood that shaped him, ensuring its stories live on through ink.