Ruben Barahona was born in Guatemala City, where he was raised by a single mother during the country’s civil war. Seeking solace in the arts from an early age, Ruben developed a deep appreciation for creativity and expression. Through hard work and determination, he earned academic scholarships that carried him through college, where he studied music. Although music remains a passion, he eventually discovered that his true calling lay in the visual arts. This realization led him to dedicate himself fully to tattooing—a decision that would define his life’s work.

Ruben opened his first studio in 2013 in Antigua, Guatemala, where he began to refine his artistic voice and technical mastery. In 2017, he moved to New York City, and a year later, he founded Graveyard NYC in Lower Manhattan. To deepen his understanding of form, light, and composition, Ruben pursued studies in oil painting from life at the Art Students League of New York, an experience that profoundly shaped his artistic approach.

Today, Ruben travels to major tattoo conventions across the world, sharing his work and connecting with artists and collectors alike. His style blends realism with comic-inspired illustration, creating tattoos that are both visually striking and enduring. Strong line work defines his compositions, while his signature color palette—rooted in years of oil painting—adds richness and depth to the skin.

Ruben emphasizes solid contrast in value, color temperature, and texture, ensuring each design flows harmoniously across the body. He applies timeless artistic principles from traditional mediums while respecting the natural limitations of the skin, always prioritizing longevity, structure, and legibility.

His preferred subjects include character portraits and narrative compositions that evoke emotion and meaning, often infused with elements of heavy metal iconography. At the same time, Ruben values collaboration with his clients, transforming their ideas and personal stories into lasting works of art.

Ruben is proud to be sponsored by some of the most recognized and respected brands in the tattoo industry, including:
Intenze Tattoo Ink PRO Team
Tattoo Armor