Art isn’t only what we see, it’s what we carry. It’s built through trust, conversation, and the relationships that shape it. That philosophy defines Old Testament Electric Tattooing, a Bank Street studio that recently celebrated its first year in business and continues to strengthen New London’s creative economy.
Tattooing is among the most personal forms of art, and at Old Testament, the process is as important as the result. Getting to know the client is just as critical as the client getting to know their artist – ensuring the right stylistic and communicative fit before ink ever touches skin. As owner Ed Knowles, a tattoo artist with 21 years of experience, emphasizes: about 80% of the appointment is the experience – the comfort, clarity, and trust, while the remaining 20% is delivering exceptional craftsmanship that lasts a lifetime.
The shop’s name reflects its respect for tattoo history. “Old Testament” is a nod to old‑school tattooing—when the craft relied on skill, intention, and grit. That reverence for tradition carries through the studio’s culture while embracing modern tools, evolving technology, and the realities of today’s industry, including adapting to social media as a key channel for visibility and connection.
Old Testament Electric Tattooing is owned by partners Laura Edelstein and Ed Knowles, whose partnership is grounded in a shared sense of purpose. Ed, born and raised in New London and a graduate of New London High School, has pursued tattooing as a lifelong calling. Laura has also long been immersed in the industry, though never behind the tattoo machine herself. With backgrounds in social work and hospitality, she brings a deeply people-centered approach to shop ownership, helping shape Old Testament Electric into a space defined by care, communication, and approachability. Her appreciation for old‑school tattoos and vibrant color work, influenced by her interest in tattoo history and places like Coney Island (as a New Jersey Native and frequenter of New York), adds another distinctive layer of perspective to the studio’s identity.
Like many small businesses, the first year brought challenges: industry shutdowns, slow seasons, and even a robbery. Resilience though became part of the foundation. Through perseverance and adaptability, Old Testament emerged stronger, focused on offering high‑quality work that is accessible, professional, and welcoming.
That commitment extends well beyond the studio. Old Testament stays actively engaged with the Downtown New London Association, First Friday, and the New London Cultural District, building relationships with merchants and community leaders to support city‑wide initiatives. They also prioritize regional partnerships, including sponsorship and support from Tommy’s Tattoo Supplies and StarBrite Ink, a legacy ink brand formulated over 30 years ago. Ed is a StarBrite Pro Team Artist, and the shop has long participated in Tommy’s Tattoo Convention, a longstanding October event that has run for more than a decade. They are also supported by Steve Tefft of Ink Master, who sponsors conventions they attend.
This spring, Old Testament Electric Tattooing will take part in the New England Tattoo Expo at Mohegan Sun, where artists Ed Knowles, Bob Lindell, and Eddie Shaw will represent both their studio and Eastern Connecticut’s creative talent from April 17–19, 2026. The Expo represents a major opportunity to showcase the region’s artistic excellence while reinforcing New London’s place within the broader tattoo industry.
Creative businesses like Old Testament Electric Tattooing play a vital role in regional vitality. They activate downtowns, complement restaurants and retail, strengthen cultural identity, and invite connection across communities. They remind us that art is not separate from the economy, it’s part of what sustains it.
Experience their work and get connected:
@old_testament_electric_tattoos
Speak with An Artist or Schedule a Consult Today: (959) 716‑4033
For direct inquiries, contact the artists individually:
📧 Ed Knowles tattoosbyed83@gmail.com
📧 Eddie Shaw eddieshawtattoos@gmail.com
📧 Bob Lindell boblindelltattoos@gmail.com
This article is part of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut’s “Community Builders” series, which celebrates the resilience, creativity, and legacy of small businesses that shape our region. Representing a network of approximately 1,300 member businesses and organizations across eastern Connecticut and extending into Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New York, the Chamber is proud to highlight unique enterprises—including tattoo studios—and the vital role they play in fostering a vibrant community and a thriving regional economy.