We were lucky to catch up with Shaylin Richardson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Shaylin , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I had a more traditional apprenticeship which started with me doing shop work and learning the business itself which has benefited me in more ways than most. I didn’t pick up a machine until 8 months in, where i started to tattoo pig ears as practice before I touched human skin. The only thing that stood in my way as far as progressing was myself. Part of me didn’t believe I could do it but two years later I have proved myself wrong. Besides tattoo application itself, The most important skills that I had already had prior to tattooing was being able to make it a new and exciting experience for every client I have worked with.

Shaylin , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I never had an art background I have always just had a love for art. I would doodle in my sketchbooks growing up but never really learned how to draw until 2019. Which just proves that with enough dedication and consistency you can pursue your dreams. I specialize in mostly illustrative, but my heart really lies in horror and creepy tattoo style. I’m most proud of myself for following through and continuing every day to better my craft and not become stationary. I try to make every single person that walks into the shop feel seen and heard. A lot of the times not only are we tattooers but we’re therapists too (maybe not good ones but we try) tattoos are cheaper than therapy so sometimes I have clients who feel comfortable enough to express their struggles and share their life stories. It’s a truly beautiful craft. There are a lot of artists or piercers out there who are just in it for the money and disregard how they come off. At the end of the day I just want my clients to leave with a nice clean tattoo and good memories.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding thing to me about being an artist is when people will tell me how they’re getting this tattoo to cover up or hide an insecurity or a bad memory. Their reaction could make me cry every time. Just knowing I’m out here making people feel better about themselves not only with my art but with my words.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

To be happy and believe in myself. The past 3 years being in the industry have felt like a dream to me. This has been the only thing besides making music with my band that has made me truly feel alive and happy. It has given me such self confidence in both my talents and myself as a person. Growing up in Baltimore I didn’t have the tools I needed to be able to have a good mental state. I truly believe this industry saved my life.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @stabbedbyrapunzel

Image Credits
Personal photo credit- M. Imalay Olguin