When it comes to tattooing, the process is even trickier, as it carries the weight of consequence. Improvising, Mouse spends time locating and breaking down CD players and uses the motor, wires, and whatever else is useful. The needle making process starts off with a spring from the CD player or a pen, which is burned until it is malleable enough to straighten out and sharpen. Creating the ink requires mouthwash and water to be mixed with scraped off powder from the bottom of the metal toilets. Factor the lengthy process with the fact that tattooing is prohibited in prison, and you run the risk of you and your cellmate losing many privileges and supplies.
“A Vision from the Inside”, tells a tragically beautiful & illustrative story of a man trying to make the best of his life, despite being restricted in so many ways. Institutionalized for the rest of his life, his art is what keeps him sane, knowing he will never be set free. Thankfully, his talented made it’s way beyond the prison gates, and he currently is regarded with the utmost respect from prestigious tattooers and artists such as Jack Rudy, and Franco Vescovi, who discovered Mouse’s art and helped spread his name. Many of Lopez’s designs can be found on shirts made by Ensane Clothing and Black Market Art Company.
Aside from showcasing the beauty that is Mouse’s signature style, “A Vision From the Inside” aims to be a means of inspiration, to sway youth into thinking before they act and not make the same mistakes Mouse made in his life. All hand drawn with a pencil or ballpoint pen, the book is a must-have for any black and grey art enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Thanks to Franco Vescovi, “A Vision From the Inside” is available for purchase on the Bishop Rotary website. You can keep up with Mouse on Facebook and Instagram @Mouse_Lopez. You can also contact Mouse directly by writing to him: Jaime “Mouse” Lopez #JO4188 K.V.S.P P.O Box 5101-A3-116, Delano, CA
written by Leo Gomon
