Growing up in the middle of nowhere Wisconsin, I had no idea I would be becoming a tattoo artist in the future.

I had my mind set on becoming an Art Therapist since I took my first psychology course in high school. I already had fallen in love with drawing painting, metals, ceramics, and fiber arts by then and when I found out there was a career where I can combine those with helping others, it became my passion. I graduated from Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado by way of the University of Wisconsin - Stout.

Five months after attaining my master’s degree, I started a tattoo apprenticeship. Why?

I wanted to create more art! I rarely used my talents unless I was commissioned for a painting. I figured an apprenticeship for tattooing would help me stay on top of my creativity.

My “Why?” soon changed.

As I progressed through growing my craft I saw countless practices and spaces that were unethical and harmful. I was neither inspired to create in nor comfortable bringing clients into these environments. When I spoke up about my concerns, I was told my standards are too high for the industry.

And I took that personally.

It is now my mission to foster an environment where a client feels at ease for a tattoo appointment, to the best of my ability. I use my experience as a mental health therapist to practice mindful attendance during a session and attempt to make a welcoming environment for clients making a decision to trust me with their new tattoo.