We recently connected with Melissa Burns Mugisha and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Melissa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?

I’ve been a portrait artist since I completed my first realism portrait at 17. Art has always been a part of who I am, and fortunately I’ve rarely had to doubt my abilities. But entering the tattoo industry has challenged my confidence. I’ve received more criticism than I ever did as a traditional pencil artist, though to be fair, I hadn’t faced much before. Starting out as a beginner in adulthood has been tough, especially when people, often unfamiliar with my story or even the art of tattooing, feel the need to voice their dislike. Tattooing isn’t like drawing with a pencil. Any new skill is intimidating, and you rarely start where you want to be. Despite the challenges, I wouldn’t hesitate to do it all again. I love creating beautiful body art that my clients cherish. It’s the most rewarding work I’ve ever done, and I’ve accepted that I’ll always be at a different stage in my career than others. Time moves at an often painfully slow pace, and impatience can be tempting, but I’ve learned to keep going and to value those who support me through every stage. Those are the people worth keeping by your side.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Growing up, I was often told I should be a tattoo artist every time I shared my artwork, but I always brushed it off because, as a Mormon, it wasn’t allowed. After leaving the church, it took me about two years to get my first tattoo. I had a great time designing it, and once again, someone suggested I should be a tattoo artist. This time, the idea stuck, and I realized I could actually pursue it.

As an ex-Mormon, I have a unique perspective on tattooing. I can empathize deeply with first-time tattoo clients or those in similar situations, and I take pride in offering compassion where others might not. I don’t charge by the hour because I believe the time something takes doesn’t reflect the effort or care I put into it. I’d rather help someone work through their anxiety and reclaim their body at their own pace, even if it takes twice as long, than rush through a permanent and meaningful process.

Is every tattoo deeply meaningful? No, of course not. We’re all at different points in our journey. But it can be, and regardless, I strive to be a great artist for anyone who walks through my door. For me, a lot of the art in tattooing is about the client. I prioritize love and comfort above all else. My shop is disability-friendly, body-positive, LGBTQ+ welcoming, neurodivergent-friendly, and more. I love creating tattoos that help people appreciate their reflection just a little bit more, and as I continue to grow as an artist, I aim to emphasize body-enhancing tattoos as my specialty.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Art should always be encouraged in schools. Developing creativity from an early age has a profound impact—it literally rewires the brain. Even if someone isn’t particularly skilled at it, the process is beneficial for everyone. While I understand the emphasis on academics, we risk losing a vital part of our humanity if we neglect creativity. The reality is that, if given the choice, most people would prefer engaging in creative work over manual labor. The more we can meet people’s basic needs and ensure they feel comfortable, the more we’ll see an abundance of art and creativity. After all, no one thrives under stress, and relieving that stress is key to fostering creative growth.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

First, I don’t believe anyone is truly “non-creative.” Creativity manifests in many different ways, and I encourage people to cultivate their own unique expression rather than compare themselves to others and conclude they lack a particular skill. If you don’t feel creative, you might unlock new ideas by embracing your unique creativity.

Second, I think those who don’t have art as part of their daily life may struggle to understand how deeply personal it is to us. Art is a reflection of who we are, and sharing it with others is like revealing a piece of ourselves. That’s part of what makes art so beautiful—it expresses humanity in a way that can’t be replicated or automated. Be gentle with the artists in your life. While I’ve never known an artist who wasn’t open to feedback, it’s important to remember that art isn’t just a task or an objective—it’s an expression.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tattookissshop.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tattookissshop/profilecard/?igsh=ZTd3aXQ1azN0MnF0
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558978235202&mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/tattoo-kiss-portland

Image Credits

Melissa Burns Mugisha
Joshua Richardson