About Black Rhino Tattoo

Black Rhino Tattoo Docuseries

youtube icon with link to Black Rhino tattoos docuseries - meet the artists
Watch Now

About the shop

Black rhino tattoos

My name is Igor Montano, Owner/Artist at Black Rhino Tattoos in Las Vegas. I'd like to share a bit about how we came to be a recognized name in tattooing and where it all began. 


For many years, and early into my career as an artist, I had a small dream to open a Tattoo Shop. I wanted it to be a place where the most experienced of clients, and the least experienced of clients could both feel welcome and make their tattoo experience amazing. Then in the middle of 2019, I decided to take the first steps towards making it a reality. Nobody could have anticipated the challenges this would present as the world had not foreseen the pandemic coming to affect small businesses everywhere. 


In February of 2020, I secured a lease for a small 640 sq foot location near Nellis Blvd and Sahara Ave. Within a week of signing a lease, the global pandemic took hold, and non-essential businesses everywhere were shut down so the dream appeared to be crushed. Nevertheless, the process had to continue as I found myself, and my wife at the time locked into a legally binding lease. Needless to say, this was concerning as city building permits and county licensing stopped providing new businesses with licensing due to the shutdown. 


The only thing I could do was press on. It was a stressful time in life, but nothing could have prepared me for the journey it would be. Several months after the shutdown, rumors began to circulate that licensing would once again be available. I had already filled out insane amounts of paperwork in anticipation of this happening, so when it did I would be ready to submit everything required.

The moment licensing departments reopened, everything was submitted and construction of the shop began after many filing corrections and delays due to my own inexperience. I was on a seriously stressful time crunch! Days were excruciatingly long and difficult. But somehow with the help of friends and family, the shop was completed in time to be opened in the summer of 2020. 

The starting team was just me and my former wife, but we soon began the hiring process for additional artists. Nothing could have prepared me for the growth that would take place so quickly! Within the first year, the team at Black Rhino outgrew the location and needed more space! So the process I was now familiar with, began again. This time, it was done without filing errors and was a very smooth sail to the finish line. The next chapter of Black Rhino Tattoos had commenced.


In the latter part of 2022, the flagship location of Black Rhino opened up and now featured additional artists that brought to it more versatility, and the ability to service more clients. The bond that was to be formed between the team was and has been truly astounding. The shop is our home away from home, and the sanctuary where we all come together to improve the craft we love so much – Making Art and Making Tattoos.


On behalf of myself, Alex Araiza, Dawn Sabados, Joshua Barrera, Mickey Hancock, Janessa Urbano, Elizabeth Sosa, and Nina Gately we want to say thank you for the continued trust and privilege of tattooing you. We love that every day we get the ability to create and cannot express the gratitude we have towards our amazing clients for giving us the opportunity to service you for your tattoo needs. We look forward to continuing to work with the community of Las Vegas and clients throughout the country and the world. Come by and see us, and experience getting a tattoo from one of our many talented and dedicated Artists. 

Frequently Asked Questions

- answered by Igor Montano

  • Why the name Black Rhino?

    Rhinos have been my favorite animal since I can remember. The totem characteristics of a Rhino can be described as Strength, Versatility, Endurance, Dedication, and Calm. 

  • Are consultations free?

    Yes! We never charge a consultation fee. Simply look through our galleries and social media accounts for the artist you believe is best suited for your project and reach out to them to set up a time to come in and discuss your tattoo. 

  • Do you accept walk-ins?

    While we do recommend making an appointment, we do accept walk-ins! Walk-in slots are not always guaranteed, but if our doors are open and an artist is open, we will get you taken care of! 

  • I'm nervous because it's my first tattoo, how bad will it hurt?

    It's difficult to say with accuracy what areas will hurt which person most due to everyone having different pain tolerances, but there are indeed some spots that hurt well more than others universally. Necks, feet, and ribs are all universally considered to be among the most painful. 

  • Can I get a tattoo if I'm underage?

    Yes! Our minimum age for clients is 16, with the stipulation that your parent or legal guardian be present during the entire process, and provides at the time of your appointment their identification and proof of parenthood or guardianship. 

  • Does color hurt more than black and gray?


    This question can be up for debate, so I will answer personally. I do believe there are times when color can be a bit more painful. 

  • What should I do to prepare for my appointment?

    Rest well the night before, enjoy a nice filling breakfast, and hydrate plenty. These things are very important to ensure you feel comfortable and have a good amount of nutrition in your body while undergoing the tattoo process. 

  • Is it true that people can pass out from getting a tattoo?

    It does not happen frequently, but it can happen. This can indeed be avoided by ensuring proper rest, hydration, and calories are consumed on the night prior to and the day of your tattoo. 

  • Is there anything I should bring to my appointment?

    You are most certainly welcome to bring anything that will make you more comfortable! Snacks, water, and even a blanket since the shop is kept at a very cool temperature. Clients sometimes opt to bring in a jacket or blanket or even pillows!