Things and Ink Archives

February 15, 2025February 15, 2025

“Creating a backpiece is an extensive and deeply personal journey for both the client and myself,” interview with tattoo artist Francesco Ferrara

Known for his bold and expansive backpieces, we sat down to hear 29-year-old Francesco Ferrara’s story. Italian Francesco currently lives in California in the USA and is a resident artist at Gold Rush Tattoo (@Goldrushtattoo) in Costa Mesa.

I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself to the readers of Things & Ink and express my gratitude for this wonderful opportunity.

My journey into the world of tattooing began at a very young age. Before embarking on my career as a tattoo artist, I was first a client. At the age of 15, I received my first tattoo — a Japanese sleeve on my left arm. At the time, I had little knowledge about tattoos, but I was instantly captivated by the art form.

By the age of 16, I attempted my first tattoo on a friend in my garage using a machine that another friend had purchased. In those early years, I did not view tattooing with the same perspective I have today. However, I am deeply grateful to my younger self for taking that first step, as tattooing ultimately gave my life purpose and direction.

I also remain deeply grateful to the individuals who supported me at the start of my career— those who entrusted me with their skin when I was just 16. Many of them are still close friends, while others have naturally drifted from my life over time.

When I first entered the tattoo industry, I was young and unfamiliar with both the craft and the inner workings of a tattoo studio. My apprenticeship lasted over a year, during which my primary focus was observing, absorbing and understanding the daily operations of a professional studio. Throughout this time, I refrained from tattooing, aside from a few experimental pieces on close friends, for which I never accepted payment.

I firmly believe that a strong apprenticeship is the foundation of a skilled tattoo artist. With over a decade of experience, I can quickly discern whether an artist has undergone a proper apprenticeship or is self-taught – the difference is substantial and unmistakable.

One of the most memorable moments of my career was my first guest spot in London at Black Garden Tattoo. At just 21 years old, I didn’t speak a word of English, but I was eager to tattoo as many people as possible. That experience profoundly reinforced my passion for tattooing and the incredible opportunities it has provided for my personal and professional growth.

Over the years, I’ve refined my style through exposure to diverse artistic influences and collaborations with some of the most esteemed tattoo artists in the industry. Working in various locations has allowed me to learn, adapt and integrate different techniques into my craft. I like to believe that I’ve taken inspiration from each artist I have encountered and made it my own.

My tattooing style is a fusion of traditional European and American influences. I have always specialised in traditional tattooing, though my approach has evolved significantly over the years. While in Europe, I favoured thinner lines and a more muted, autumnal colour palette.

Upon moving to the US, I was heavily influenced by the American traditional scene, adopting bold lines, vibrant colours and solid shading techniques.

Personally, I have exclusively Traditional and Japanese tattoos on my body. The majority of my clientele seek large-scale projects such as backpieces, front pieces, and sleeves. Each large-scale design is custom-created in collaboration with the client, incorporating their input to ensure a meaningful and personalised outcome.

Additionally, I frequently work with flash pieces from my collection, as many clients are drawn to my artistic style rather than a specific design. However, I am always happy to create bespoke pieces upon request.

Creating a backpiece is an extensive and deeply personal journey for both the client and myself. The process typically spans approximately five sessions, each dedicated to a different stage: outlining, shading, and colouring.

When clients approach me to begin their backpiece, I always seek their input on the design. Understanding their vision and aspirations allows me to incorporate their ideas while infusing my own artistic perspective, ultimately crafting a piece that surpasses their expectations.

Many of my clients gravitate toward bold, vibrant designs, drawn to my signature style that features strong black contrasts and striking colour palettes. However, I also enjoy working in black and grey, adapting to each client’s preferences. To ensure optimal healing, I generally recommend spacing sessions three to four weeks apart.

For clients travelling from overseas, I accommodate their schedules by arranging consecutive sessions, reducing both travel expenses and logistical challenges. Each session typically lasts four to five hours, with short breaks to ensure the client’s comfort. Preparation is crucial, so I advise clients to get adequate rest, stay hydrated, and maintain a nutritious diet before their appointments.

The tattoo industry has changed significantly since I first started, but I am encouraged by the number of dedicated artists and passionate enthusiasts who continue to uphold the integrity of the craft. Many of my clients are between the ages of 18 and 25, and their appreciation for traditional and Japanese tattooing gives me hope for the future of the industry.

The tattoo scene in the US is remarkable, with an incredible community of talented artists. I deeply appreciate my clients here, as well as those in Europe, and I value the healthy competition that pushes us all to excel in our craft.

Unfortunately, there is also a great deal of misinformation surrounding tattooing, and some individuals portray a misleading or inauthentic version of the art form. I firmly believe that true artists who genuinely respect and preserve the craft will leave a lasting legacy, while those who exploit it without passion or dedication will ultimately fade away.

I consider myself fortunate to have clients who trust me and grant me creative freedom in my work. Looking ahead, one of my aspirations is to complete a full body suit on a client with either no tattoos or minimal existing work.

To the readers of Things & Ink, thank you for taking the time to read this article. I would like to offer a piece of advice to aspiring tattoo artists: Love tattooing wholeheartedly, as it will always give back to you — both the good and the bad. Work hard, as there are no shortcuts in this industry. If you lack genuine passion, then tattooing may not be the right path, as the world does not need more tattoo artists — it needs dedicated and skilled ones.

Francesco’s books are currently closed, reopening at the end of March for appointments between May and July 2026. Message him via DM on Instagram. He’s currently working on several projects that are still under wraps. His first book, Bruh Book, is out now. Make sure to follow Francesco Ferrara (@francesco__ferrara _) for more incredibly bold tattoos.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

February 4, 2025February 4, 2025

“I’m often inspired by the unique ideas that my clients bring to the table,” interview with tattoo artist Nonlee

Her career in tattooing was sparked by an encounter that changed up her thinking. Here, tattoo artist Jungyeon Kim ( known as Nonlee / @non_lee_ink ) shares her story. And how she morphed her style into the incredible ethereal tattoos she creates today at Ziho Gallery in Seoul, South Korea. Grab yourself a cuppa and settle in for the journey.

What made you fall in love with tattoos?

Before becoming a tattoo artist, I spent nine years teaching students watercolour painting and pencil drawing. One day, a student came to my art class with a unique request: he wanted to learn basic drawing skills to pursue a career in tattooing. While I had personal experience with tattoos, I’d never considered becoming a tattoo artist myself.

This encounter sparked a new interest in me. Even though I found joy in teaching and seeing my students succeed, I always yearned to create art for myself. The pandemic, despite its challenges, provided me with the opportunity to explore new avenues.

Your background is in art and teaching, what drew you to this in the first place?

I began teaching art out of necessity. Like many art students, I needed a part-time job to support my tuition and art supplies. Having graduated from an art high school, I had a strong foundation and was able to earn a higher hourly rate. Even after graduating from university, I continued teaching because I enjoyed the interaction with students and the work was a good fit for my outgoing personality.

With your teaching experience, would you ever consider having an apprentice?

I have prior experience teaching tattooing. I currently work with tattooist Ziho at Ziho Gallery in Seoul, Korea. We occasionally hold tattoo workshops. While Ziho primarily leads these workshops, I’ve assisted him and co-taught on several occasions.

Tell us more about the studio, what’s it like?

The studio houses a diverse group of artists, and I find it both beneficial and enjoyable to collaborate with individuals who share similar styles and genres.

How long have you been tattooing for?

I began my tattooing journey in March 2021 under the mentorship of renowned tattoo artist Ziho. I wanted to maximise my artistic potential and create a style that best showcased my abilities.

We love your tattoos, can you tell us about your own tattoo collection?

I have around 17 tattoos. While I cherish them all, three hold a special place in my heart. The most recent one, which has just healed, is florals from @sian_ttt. The second one is a beautifully recreated moth tattoo done by @n.o.u.v.e.a.u. And the third one was done by @oozy_tattoo, one of the artists who inspired me to start tattooing.

Your work has a magical quality to it – ethereal and beautiful – how would you describe it?

My style is primarily based on hyperrealism but leans towards botanical illustration. The most distinctive feature of my tattoos is the use of vibrant and bold colours.

My background in fine art allows me to incorporate elements of oil painting and watercolour techniques into my tattoos, resulting in a unique style that sets me apart from traditional tattoo artists.

Have you always painted?

My undergraduate major was sculpture. However, I’ve also explored two-dimensional mediums such as painting and printmaking. While I’m currently focused on tattooing, my sculptural background has given me a strong foundation in three-dimensional form and light and shadow, which I believe enhances my tattoo designs.

Where does your inspiration come from?

Nature is my biggest source of inspiration. Everything in nature can be a subject for my tattoos. I often go bush walking, visit the beach to observe marine life, or simply explore my surroundings. I spend a lot of time photographing plants in my neighbourhood, especially during spring and summer.

How do you like to work with customers? Do you do mostly custom work or flash too?

I primarily create custom designs tailored to each individual client. I enjoy exploring new subject matter, and I’m often inspired by the unique ideas that my clients bring to the table. However, I also create flash designs, which allow me to explore my own personal interests.

What’s next for you? How would you like your work and style to progress?

I’m interested in gradually transitioning to larger-scale projects. As an artist who pays meticulous attention to detail, I am exploring ways to maintain a high level of detail while scaling up my work.

Do you ever do guest spots and how do we book in?

I announce the dates and locations of my guest spots on Instagram. I usually post this information one to two months in advance, so it’s best to follow my account for updates. In countries where there is potentially a large customer base, spots can fill up within a week.

Make sure to follow Nonlee on Instagram @non_lee_ink for more tattoos and to book yours.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

November 20, 2024January 28, 2025

“Pixel art tattoos are a unique style that requires absolute precision and a high degree of creativity,” interview with tattoo artist Mr Pixel

He grew up playing loads of video games, so tattoo artist Mr Pixel (@mrpixel.tattooer) who’s based in Singapore, brings that nostalgia into his tattoo style. It reminds him of a simpler time, which especially resonates with us as we came of age in the digital era. Who doesn’t miss their Sega Mega Drive and their 90s childhood bedroom? But pixel tattoos are definitely having their moment in the spotlight so we caught up with the artist to find out more about how he honed his pixelated craft and how he takes inspiration and, well basically, pixelates it … yep to pixel tattoos, nope to pixelated photos…

When and why did you fall in love with tattooing?

I was always curious about tattoos since I was young – mostly because of my dad’s influence. He has a full back eagle tattoo. As a child, I was always curious and fascinated about it. I loved looking at it. It made me wonder about why and how we can have a piece of art work drawn on our skin and hidden under our clothes.

The day I did my first tattoo was the best feeling in my life, because I fell in love with it right away. Being able to express my artwork on and with clients who share and feel the same is amazing.

Another moment was when I participated in The Lion’s Gate Singapore Tattoo Convention 2024 and competed for Best in Small colour category. I managed to execute a piece of flawless artwork for my client and I’m humbled to be awarded second place. It was fulfilling and a proud moment that keeps me motivated and I look forward to more challenges ahead.

How long have you been tattooing? How did you learn and what was it like learning?

I started tattooing during the COVID pandemic, I did not go through a traditional apprenticeship. I learnt along the way and I’ve been fortunate to meet amazing artists who guided and shared with me. With a lot of hard work and dedication and together with the support of my sponsors and pro team such as Poseidon Tattoo, Drpickles and World Tattoo Events, I was exposed to more opportunities.

What was your first tattoo experience like?

My first tattoo was done on my thigh! It was a pixelated Pac-Man and that started my journey of pixel tattoos. It was challenging because I needed to focus on my techniques and endure the pain.

How would you describe your work?

Pixel art tattoos are a unique style that requires absolute precision and a high degree of creativity. Each design is meticulously crafted, often invoking a sense of nostalgia by bringing back childhood memories of early video games and 8-bit art. These tattoos are not just body art. They are a vivid reminder of a simpler time, resonating deeply with those who grew up during the dawn of the digital age.

How did you develop your style to what it is today?

I grew up playing a lot of games, I enjoy redesigning and expressing my work with a touch of digital age and a sense of nostalgia. Putting colours into my work is essential to bring out the look and feel that I want to achieve.

What’s your favourite subject/topic to tattoo? Do you do more flash or custom work?

I enjoy working on custom projects, redesigning any references into a pixel art tattoo, giving it a facelift of a digital look. I enjoy doing both flash and custom work.

What do you like to do in your spare time? Does this inspire your tattoos?

I love travelling, experiencing different cultures and meeting new people. I’m humbled to be on the pro team of World Tattoo Events, which gave me the opportunity to travel around the world, competing and judging in various tattoo conventions.

What’s it like tattooing in Singapore?

Despite being a small country in size, Singapore has a dense population with people from different races and cultures. The tattoo scene in Singapore is great! People are open and accepting with tattoos and Singapore is home to many amazing tattoo artists as well.

Any thoughts on the tattoo world as a whole? Where it is now and anything you hope might change?

I want to continue meeting great artists, learn and share new experiences and knowledge. I want to leave a legacy behind and I am inspired to be one of the best pixel artist internationally.

I’m honored to be invited as part of the panel of judges in the recent Ancona International Tattoo Convention 2024 in Italy. I’m also invited to judge for various conventions in 2025 such as Inkdian in Goa, Art Culture Convention in Chennai and ArtisticInk Festival in Thailand. This gives me an opportunity to give back my knowledge and insights back to the tattoo industry.

What are your hopes for the future?

Over the past few years, the growth in the tattoo industry was enormous. New equipment, tattoo ink, needles, sterilisation and aftercare products made significant improvements in tattoo quality on skin. I hope to inspire artists to keep up with new knowledge and equipment and make the industry a better one!

Make sure to follow Mr Pixel on Instagram @mrpixel.tattooer for more tattoos and to book yours.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

November 19, 2024November 19, 2024

“I’m cautious about labelling my style, as it makes me feel confined. I enjoy presenting my playful perspective on themes and asking, How about this? Isn’t it fun?” interview with tattoo artist Woo

Yep, yep it is fun… We’re obsessed with the weird and wonderful world of tattoo artist Woo (@lonely_weirdo_club) who’s based in Seoul in Korea. Think Botticelli’s The Birth Of Venus but it’s kewpies wrapped in spaghetti! Yep, told you, we’re OBSESSED. So we couldn’t wait to find out more about Woo’s tattoo journey…

When did you first fall in love with tattoos?

I grew up in Asian culture, which often suppresses individuality, so I’ve always had a resistance to that. Tattoos seemed free and cool, and I became fascinated by them. They provide a way to express our unique identities, which I find amazing.

How long have you been tattooing for and what was it like learning?

I’ve been tattooing for about 16 years now, and I’m still learning. I constantly seek feedback on what to improve and what to maintain in each piece. I strive to upgrade my skills in various ways. My goal is to keep evolving, and I’m excited for what’s to come.

What size needles do you use to tattoo to achieve your bold designs?

I use a variety of sizes, ranging from 7 to 18. However, I mostly work with 11 to 14. A few years ago, I switched entirely to cartridge needles, which has made my process more efficient and versatile.

What was the first tattoo you did on someone?

It was a six-letter name, and at the time I’d only had my machine for less than a month. A friend bravely trusted me and gave me the chance. I was extremely nervous, but the result turned out well. However, I did sweat two litres and ended up feeling unwell afterwards.

How would you define your style?

I’m cautious about labeling my style, as it makes me feel confined. I enjoy presenting my playful perspective on themes and asking, “How about this? Isn’t it fun?” My style is a blend of various inspirations, including American traditional, Japanese, illustration, Japanese culture and street culture.

How did you develop your style to what it is today?

I followed my instincts. I love growth, and I’ve moved in the direction I feel drawn to, which has led me to where I am now. I have a tendency to like things that are unique and fresh.

We agree that your style is super unique; what inspired that?

I drew inspiration from the flexible expression found in American traditional tattooing. I found it fascinating to capture the characteristics of specific subjects and express them in a fun way.

We love your smutty film tattoos. How did these come about? Are people requesting them now?

Thank you so much! Honestly, there wasn’t a specific moment—it just came to me while I was lying down one day. I was inspired by the upside-down kiss scene in Spider-Man. That idea grew and evolved, leading to more designs. Recently, I created a Slam Dunk series, and I’m hoping to turn those into tattoos soon.

What artists do you admire and why?

I’m influenced by the Japanese artist Sabado. He is true to the essence of tattooing and has taught me about understanding the skin, needle and ink design. Sabado is an artist who focuses on quality for personal satisfaction rather than fame, and I strive to follow that path, too. He is often described as a genre in himself, and I couldn’t agree more. I encourage everyone to dive into his incredible charm.

Although not in the tattoo industry, I was deeply inspired by the film Hedwig and the Angry Inch. The message of collecting beautiful pieces of the world and creating new combinations resonated with me. I feel there’s always something to learn from every artist, and I genuinely try to absorb the wonderful aspects they offer.

One of the most striking moments for me is during the song “Origin of Love,” where you can see the pain of separated souls reflected in the character’s eyes. There’s a scene where Hedwig makes eye contact with the audience, and it stirred something indescribable in me. It’s a film that has broken my preconceived notions and helped me turn weaknesses into strengths, making it an invaluable inspiration for me as an artist.

How do you usually work with customers? Do you mostly do custom work or do you create flash too?

I do both! I enjoy creating designs from my own thoughts, but I also love discovering ideas through my clients’ suggestions.

What’s the tattoo scene like where you are?

My work is based in Seoul, which is not very lenient when it comes to tattoos. Because of this, I tend to go on tours abroad.

Are you planning any guest spots? If so, where and how do we book in?

Yes, I often travel around Asia and Europe. I take bookings through direct messages on Instagram – @lonely_weirdo_club.

What has been your favorite tattoo experience?

I love the atmosphere at conventions. Although it can be a bit chaotic, I enjoy the energy of celebrating like a festival. It’s exciting to see people freely enjoying the culture.

What are your hopes for the future?

I want to develop my perspective on the world to be more inclusive. I want to be an artist who captures beauty and expresses it cleverly, transcending prejudice and stereotypes.

Make sure to follow Woo (@lonely_weirdo_club ) on Instagram and find out how you can book your next tattoo.

We’re always talking to amazing tattoo artists, check out our latest interviews.

October 25, 2024October 25, 2024

“We welcome discussions and opposing opinions, we don’t do ‘cancel culture’ or belittling,” interview with tattoo artists Gemma & Tara Horrors

Gemma and Tara Horrors (yep that’s their legal surname) met 13 years ago and fell in love – with each other and tattooing. They’ve been on quite the journey together, opening up two studios in Darlington, UK, and fighting sexist and outdated attitudes in the industry. Here they tell us all about their studios and what it’s really like to be married and work together…

What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?

Gemma (@gemmahorrorstattoo): My favourite bands as a teenager were all heavily tattooed. I was a typical punk kid, as soon as I was old enough to get tattooed, I did. But I never thought I could be a tattoo artist until TV shows with female tattooers started airing. It was the coolest thing and the ultimate rebellion. I was working on the bank as a health care assistant alongside studying for my adult nursing degree, when I decided to become a tattoo artist.

Tara (@tarahorrorstattoo): I’d started getting tattooed at 15, in a studio next to the takeaway I worked in. I’m guessing the long hours and late-night shifts helped convince the studio owners that I was 18.

It wasn’t until I met Gemma that the idea of becoming a tattoo artist even occurred to me. Between my first tattoo in 1999 and meeting Gemma in 2011, the shift in the tattooing world was monumental, especially with shows like Miami and LA Ink.

I’ve always loved tattoos, getting tattooed and even the smell and feel of being in a studio. But before this new wave, the life of a tattoo artist didn’t look appealing. I changed careers a lot. I was a Prison Officer for three years and heading towards a career change when the idea of being a tattoo artist had become not only appealing, but plausible.

Chicago inspired clown girl by Gemma Horrors

Is there a moment you fell in love with tattoos?

Gemma: It was feeling so much more confident in my own skin. Tattoos have that ability to turn your insecurities into confidence.

Tara: Not one specific moment but rather a period of a few weeks, where I suddenly became obsessed and consumed entirely by tattooing and tattoos. This was just after I’d tattooed myself for the very first time. It wasn’t until I held the tattoo machine and began creating myself that I became enthralled.

Blackout half sleeves, no coverups. Left arm fresh, right arm 2 years healed by Tara Horrors.

You have two studios, we want to know all about them, what’s the vibe?

Gemma: We created our studios to be complete opposites, so customers and artists have a choice.

House Of Horrors Tattoo Company (@houseofhorrorstattoocompany)

Appointment only
All-female studio
The aesthetic is sophisticated Victorian-esque, industrial with a touch of steampunk
The vibe is relaxed and professional

EightySixx

A modern walk-in street shop
Customers can call within the shop’s opening hours and get tattooed with a minimal wait
The vibe can change daily depending on the customers, the tattoos, the different artists and desk staff
It’s fun, energetic, open, friendly and inviting

At the back of the private studio Tara and Gemma have their side by side work stations. Gemma tattoos at the front and Tara at the back. All decor, including resin worktops was built by Tara.

You own a mixed gender studio and a female-only one, why is that so important?

Gemma: Some customers feel more comfortable being tattooed by and being in the company of females. There’s many reasons for this. I personally love working alongside the women in our studio, there’s nothing quite like it. The support and motivation we provide each other is something we all treasure. We have each other’s backs no matter what.

On the other hand, we have all worked with men in the past and do enjoy that too. I love having the guys as part of our team and I wouldn’t change that – they are a crucial part of our team and success.

Tara: This may sound controversial, but from personal experience and through observations of others, it is clear that when men and women do work closely together, it is often in a way that reinforces gender roles. Something so simple as looking over at a female colleague when the phone rings, despite everyone being free to answer it. Secondly, and I think this is just a default in men in general, but unfortunately women are still subjected to having opinions forced upon them by the men they work with. This can be regardless of time served or position held and this can sometimes quash a woman’s motivations and inspirations.

A female-only studio can allow women to explore and develop on their own terms. Don’t get me wrong, the newer generations of men are much more aware of these issues and can be understanding at times. This is exactly how the guys we chose to work with are. Still I think there is a little way to go yet.

Back left to right: Gemma, Tara, Katie, Paulo. Front left to right: Lucy, Stephen, Ellanna.

Do you have any red flags to watch out for or advice you’d like to share with clients?

Gemma: One thing I’m very open about is certain buzz words being used that are misleading to clients. A popular one is: ‘safe space’. I feel like this is sometimes used as a selling point but can have a very misleading meaning behind it. A safe space is what each individual deems it to be. For us, a safe space is a place in which you are free to be yourself without fear or judgement. We welcome this in our studios, we welcome discussions and opposing opinions. We don’t do ‘cancel culture’ or belittling because someone may have an opposing view to us.

However, at the same time, we do not tolerate hateful or disrespectful behaviour either. A lot of studios I see advertising themselves as safe spaces have also openly announced that people with certain beliefs, opinions and political views are not welcome in their studios. I have seen this on a few occasions and it’s pretty hypocritical and misleading for a customer.

So, if you see the term ‘safe space’, drop the studio a message and see what they actually mean by that. You might find they genuinely mean you are safe, free to be yourself and free from judgement. Or you could find yourself in a situation where you are only welcome if you fit a specific set of conditions.

Tara: I don’t think it’s necessary to get too bogged down in listing red flags, as people are pretty good at researching online. I’d just say, get your stalker hat on and go for it. Check out Instagram, Facebook pages and websites. Visit multiple studios, or at least check them out thoroughly on Google Earth and through tags on socials. Check out all the artists who work there, their style and vibes etc. Find a studio that seems right for you and trust your instincts. If it’s your first tattoo, ask questions – avoid studios and artists who aren’t willing to answer your questions or put you at ease.

You opened your shop 12 years ago, and you’re the first women to set up a tattoo shop in your area, what kind of reactions did you get?

Gemma: We had a lot of patronising reactions at the beginning. Most of these reactions came from the fact that we weren’t JUST the only females to set up a shop in the area, we were the first tattoo artists in around 20 years to have the balls to open a studio in the area. There was only ever one other successful studio in Darlington.

People constantly devalued everything we achieved, usually men. We encountered males in the industry telling us that they themselves were afraid to do what we were doing. They were even telling us that maybe we should reconsider opening the studio and tattooing at all.

We also had a lot of jealous reactions. Reactions I doubt men would receive if they were to do the exact same thing. I feel like people don’t like to see others doing better than them, especially when that person is a woman.

Sacred Heart tattoo on calf by Gemma Horrors.

Do you still get those reactions now?

Gemma: The reactions have changed since then. It’s been a long road with people wanting us to fail on the way, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. We are stubborn and petty as hell. Other people’s doubt just fuels us.

There are about 15 studios in Darlington now, which all opened after we made that first courageous move 12 years ago. Honestly though, we personally love healthy competition, it keeps us sharp and inspires us to grow further. It’s crazy to think that two “girls” that “don’t have a clue” potentially opened the door for all of them.

Do you think representation of women is changing in the tattoo world?

Gemma: It’s definitely changing, without a doubt. Women are producing world-class tattoos and showing how far we can go. We do have more respect than we have had before, but there’s definitely more conversations to be had.

A concern for me is the treatment of younger women coming into the industry. We have women in our studio who have experienced disgusting treatment and I continue to hear similar stories.

Tara: It definitely is changing and for the best part it’s going in the right direction. For women who tattoo now is not the time to be complacent and to take things for granted, it’s time to come together to stand up for each other.

Are there any conversations that still need to be had?

Gemma: I’m not so sure these conversations need to be had amongst the women as much as they do amongst the men. We educate our apprentices about how they should/shouldn’t be treated. This should be a standard procedure of apprenticeships but unfortunately it’s not.

I’ve heard about conversations where multiple guys are talking about another male tattooer being inappropriate with younger females in the industry. The conversation ended with them acknowledging his actions were wrong but how he was “a cool guy though”. As if that makes it acceptable to be a groomer? It’s disturbing.

We all need to be on the same page. There are men who will stand up for women and what is right, but others are dismissing these issues because it just happens to be their “bro”. It isn’t enough to just have women calling out predatory behaviour, we need the men witnessing and dismissing it to condemn the behaviour too.

Tara: Far more than I feel there should have to be. Apparently, a local man, with close associations with a male known sex offender, is all set to help fund and set up an ‘all female tattoo studio’ in our local area. That violates everything an all female studio stands for. As an ex Prison Officer I have spent a lot, quite frankly far too much time in the presence of sex offenders and the thought of them having even the slightest involvement of anything that is so treasured by me is vile.

In fact, I think having any man involved in this way taints the idea of what we have come to believe an all-female studio means. I do really feel that the women in our industry, especially the younger or certainly more impressionable ones, need to have more guidance, protection and support. This can only happen if it is talked about.

Part of the merchandise collection, which will be expanding greatly in 2025.

How did you two meet?

Gemma: We actually met in the small Yorkshire town in 2011 where we both lived, after being introduced by Tara’s younger brother, who was a friend of mine. We had never met before, despite living in the same town at different points in our lives. We like to think that this is more than a coincidence that we met when we did and that it is how it was supposed to be. Then we got married in 2012.

How was it tattooing each other?

Tara: Here’s the thing, I ‘ve never met a tattoo artist who likes being tattooed, in fact everyone I have met absolutely hates it. When you’re being tattooed by the person you love most in the world, it makes that situation just that little bit worse.

Then to top it off, with us both being tattoo artists, we constantly squabble over the tiniest things like the amount of times someone wipes over the tattoo or how hard they are stretching the skin. They say you should never teach your partner to drive, and I would say the same thing about tattooing them. Unfortunately for us, it makes too much sense to tattoo each other, as we love each other’s styles of work and literally tattoo every day side by side.

What’s it really like working with your wife?

Gemma: A rollercoaster, we opened the studio when we had only been together a year. So we learnt a lot about each other as we grew together. There’s challenges to overcome when you are working with your significant other but it’s certainly made our relationship bulletproof.

I am so proud of how we have evolved together and the team we have spent years of trial and error building. We get to laugh all day, talk all day, with each other and other people. All while doing what we love and with our best friends too. Tattooing is a huge part of our marriage and our lives, I will always be grateful for that and will never ever take it for granted.

Tara: Working with Gemma has its upsides, and its downsides. If I’m being honest the ups far outweigh the downs and I see that as a win. Although we are now at a point where we can really enjoy what we do, with only a fraction of those feelings of worry and anxiety that come with owning our own businesses, it certainly didn’t come easy.

Although we can be chalk and cheese on most things, we learned very quickly that communication, trust, loyalty, and respect would play a massive role in where we are today.

You can find out more about House Of Horrors Tattoo Company on their website. Make sure to follow both tattoo artists for more tattoos and booking information.