Today we’d like to introduce you to Larry Itson
Hi Larry, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Larry “Don Nosti” Itson – Artist & Tattooist
Art has always been a challenge for me—growing up, I competed with friends to see who could draw 90s and early 2000s cartoons like DBZ and Bart Simpson the best. That competitive drive pushed me to practice constantly, sketching in class, in textbooks, and on anything I could get my hands on. In 10th grade, I was selected for a special program at a Kansas Vocational School, where I trained alongside some of the most talented young artists in the city. By my senior year, I won 1st place in the city competition for “Skills Vica USA” and competed at the state level.
After high school, unsure of my next step, I joined the military in April 2006 and was deployed to Iraq (Operation Iraqi Freedom 09-10) for 11 months. During that time, I reconnected with my first love—art. Once I returned stateside, I committed to creating every day, and it was then that I discovered artist Miya Bailey. Seeing his work and the documentary Color Outside The Lines changed my perspective, showing me that I could be successful as a Black artist in my own lane. That moment led me to pursue tattooing, training at Royal Flush Tattoos for over a year.
My journey eventually brought me to Baton Rouge, LA, where I met my mentor and brother, Tai Henderson. He continues to push me artistically, helping me reach new heights. Another key influence, Jamond Bullock, has shaped how I approach both art and business. Today, I’m focused on evolving my craft of painting blending storytelling with tattooing and art , inspiring the next generation of artists.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Carving out your own lane means pushing through uncertainty, setbacks, and doubt, but it also means growth, self-discovery, and ownership of your journey. The challenges make the wins more meaningful because you’ve built something authentic to you.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m an all-around artist with a passion for exploring different mediums. Currently, I’m a resident artist at Artifacts Art Gallery in Memphis, TN. My primary mediums include tattooing, painting, and digital illustration. One of my proudest moments as an artist was when I sold a painting to Amanda Seales, the comedian and actress.
I’m particularly known for my illustrations, like Keisha Trooper and my 3rd Eye Kids series. Through my work, I aim to convey a message of spiritual growth and life lessons. It’s this focus on personal development and a deeper understanding of life that sets my art apart from others.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Staying humble
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/donnosti?utm_source=linktree_admin_share
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donnosti?igsh=MXBiNzd3OXE0dGU2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
