After getting tattoos and piercings over the years, Eriq’s interest in piercing piqued in 2001, while working at Nuclear Ink as counter help.  He added to his collection of piercings and learned a lot along the way.  He began experiencing the transformative process of stretching piercings to larger gauges and putting himself through many of the experiences that he would later guide his clients through from the other side of the chair.  Eriq began to feel that piercing was what he was meant to do and began researching and reading anything he could get his hands on. 

            In 2003 he met MJ Wood, an accomplished piercer, and the two became best friends.  MJ later took Eriq as an apprentice at Nuclear Ink and taught him every aspect of the art that he hadn’t already picked up.  He spent the better part of a year learning techniques and discussing proper procedure before ever touching a needle.  After a few months of supervised piercing, MJ declared, “There is nothing more I can teach this boy!”  Eriq has been piercing professionally ever since.  He credits the website BMEZINE.com for help in facilitating communication between him and other professionals and enthusiasts the world over.  He also supports the Association of Professional Piercers (APP) and their goals in providing only the safest piercing experience.  Eriq is a member of the Nebraska Body Artist Association (NBAA).

            “I believe piercing goes beyond a service to be provided.  Piercing is a journey, a path to finding one’s true self.  Piercings can teach patience and perseverance.  As a piercer, I try to bring these things into my career.  I try to bring the best experience to every client.  Understanding that for some people, getting pierced can bring on feelings of nervousness and sometimes even fear, I won’t rush anyone through.  I take as much time as needed to help a person be comfortable and trusting with me before going through with any procedure.”