Taking home First Place for Best of the Region Tattoo Artist is a tremendous accomplishment, but it didn't happen overnight. This recognition represents decades of hard work, persistence, experimentation, and dedication to the craft, alongside the support of loyal clients, incredible coworkers, and a community that has stood behind them every step of the way.

Originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan, Chencho Leon attended the Art Institute of Chicago, where he received formal artistic training that continues to influence his work today. He began tattooing under the guidance of his older brother, Tony Benoa, at Roy Boys in the Gary and Calumet City area. Those early years of apprenticeship laid the foundation for the artist he would become.

In 2007, Chencho co-founded 45th Street Tattoo, where he has spent nearly two decades bringing clients' ideas to life. His artistic roots began with a love for classical illustration, commercial art, primitive artwork, and comic-inspired imagery. Over time, that foundation evolved into a style built on strong fundamentals, timeless design, and tattoos meant to last a lifetime.

"The Region has influenced my artistic integrity through my loyal customers, the community, my brother, and my amazing partners here at 45th," says Chencho.

With more than 32 years of experience, Chencho continues to honor the traditions of tattooing while constantly pushing himself to grow. His appreciation for the craft extends beyond the skin, building his own tattoo machines by hand while continuing to develop his skills in watercolor, portraiture, oil painting, and acrylic painting. Although Chencho has come close to earning Best of the Region in previous years, taking home first place feels different. It's not a finish line, but another step forward. As his work continues to evolve, this award serves as both a milestone and the beginning of new creative pursuits.

Coming in close behind, Chencho's longtime business partner and co-owner, Sieto Maldonado, earned Third Place for Best of the Region Tattoo Artist. For three decades, Sieto has quietly built a reputation as one of the Region's most dependable and respected tattooers. Few people show up for their family, their clients, their friends, and the tattoo community with the same consistency and dedication.

When asked what still excites him about tattooing after 30 years, Sieto's answer perfectly reflects his personality.

"I don't even consider it creating. I just make it happen."

That mindset has defined his entire career. Showing up every day is more than his younger self ever imagined. Thirty years later, he's still loyal to the same trade and just as passionate about the work. His approach is that of an architect. He doesn't see himself as creating something from nothing; instead, he engineers his clients' ideas into something real.

"I don't create. I take people's ideas and turn them into something tangible."

Sieto has built his career on transforming visions into lasting works of art with confidence, technical precision, and unmistakable personality. His inspiration comes from everywhere, especially classic and cult cinema. When asked which films best describe his artistic journey, he points to Tromeo and Juliet and Menace II Society. Two movies that capture the grit, individuality, and unapologetic attitude that have shaped both his work and his outlook.

For Sieto, tattooing has never been about awards or recognition. It's about showing up every day, putting in the work, and helping people carry meaningful artwork with them for life one tattoo at a time, or sometimes two.

While Chencho and Sieto received this year's individual honors, they are quick to recognize their longtime business partner and fellow co-owner, Jeff "Lefty" Zygowicz. For years, Jeff has been an essential part of the foundation of 45th Street Tattoo, helping build the shop's reputation through his dedication to the craft, his mentorship, and his unwavering commitment to tattooing.

Chencho Leon and Jeff "Lefty" Zygowicz are also the only tattoo machine builders currently working in the Region, continuing a tradition of craftsmanship that extends far beyond tattooing itself. Their hand-built machines reflect the same attention to detail, mechanical understanding, and respect for tattoo history that define their work every day.

Together, Chencho, Sieto, and Jeff have built far more than a tattoo shop. They've created a home for artists, clients, and tattoo culture throughout Northwest Indiana. Through decades of dedication, craftsmanship, and community involvement, 45th Street Tattoo has become a place where tradition is respected, artistry is celebrated, and every tattoo is approached with purpose.

Their recognition in this year's Best of the Region awards is more than a celebration of individual talent. It reflects the lasting impact they have made on their clients, the tattoo community, and the Region they proudly call home. It is a testament to decades of hard work, a commitment to excellence, and a passion for tattooing that continues to grow with every year.