Story and photos by Christian Kantosky
Dexter Banks, a tattoo artist and bodybuilder, is the owner of Dark Wasp Studio located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.
Originally from Harrodsburg, Kentucky, Dexter was raised by a single mother who was always working to get food on the table for him. He would spend a lot of his free time drawing and doodling as he always had an affinity for anime and manga, which is how he got into art.
Banks’ father wasn’t around a lot as a kid because he lived in Tennessee. “[My dad] told me ‘You have to find a father figure who is around.’ so he was at least aware,” Banks recalled.
But he found one in his Papaw, who always supported Banks along with his Mamaw. “[My Papaw] was a farmer and that work ethic he had was so inspiring for me” … “He was never one to complain about anything,” Banks said.
His grandparents, James and Frances Elery always believed in him even as he was starting to get into the tattoo business out of college; they let him work from their backyard.
Having a role model like James in his life, helped to shape Dexter’s discipline which is something that he exercises in his everyday life. Discipline is of the utmost importance for Dexter Banks. He recently competed in his first amateur body building competition in August 2024, where he placed fourth, and is now training to compete again next August.
Even in his line of work, Dexter believes that discipline makes all the difference. “That’s the thing with tattoos, you’ve gotta do it right the first time; ain’t no starting over with tattoos,” Banks told Dennie Martin while they talked about work during their Tattoo session. He sees it as a challenge to become better every day.
“I never want to look back when I’m an old man and say, ‘damn I should’ve done that,’ because everyone is running out of time. For me it’s a motivator,” Banks said one morning in the gym.
He said the same thing about anime, citing it as a daily reminder that he has the ability to take on hardships headfirst and continue improving upon himself.
But at Dexter’s core, being a good father and partner is top priority; the type of person his mother didn’t have. “[At home] the goal is to be present and watch my family and kids grow up together,” Banks stated.
Dexter’s love for his family and determination makes him one of the most dynamic artists in this area, who is passionate about the work he does, and as he continues to grow in all aspects of his life, the effort he puts is evident and is a positive force for the people in his life.