One must keep in mind art appreciation is subjective. To say all the artists “suck” really just means you don’t like their work, not that they are bad artists. That’s all fine and dandy but knowing most of us get inked local and you spout off saying all local artist suck means your kinda shitting on our tattoos. That won’t win any fans or respect. In fact it’s so downright confrontational it makes you sound trolling. You clearly have 0 interest in finding a local guy and it would seem you’re baiting for names to stir the pot with. Artists progress, some are better than others, but to say they suck is a bit judgmental I think.
One of the best in the country (IMO of course) is Josh Woods. Guess where he got his first internship? Locally.
If I was to travel far I think I’d go to Nikko and get a piece.