Continuing to thrive and cultivate inclusivity while creating bold, lasting designs
Prescott Woman magazine interviewed Kat, owner of Miss Kitty Tattoo. We learned about how much she values clients feeling safe and supported while healing or celebrating through tattoos.
PWM: What inspired you to start your own tattoo business?
Miss Kitty: It’s really important to me to cultivate a clean, safe, comfortable, and inclusive environment for people to get tattooed in. Tattoo shops can be really intimidating and historically unwelcoming to women and other marginalized groups of people, and I want to make sure that my clients have a welcoming, comfortable, and safe place to be vulnerable in, as tattooing is a very personal, private, and vulnerable ritual I wish to honor.
PWM: How has being a woman in the tattoo industry shaped your experience?
Miss Kitty: Being a woman in tattooing has shaped my journey, from the space I’ve cultivated to the client relationships I’ve built. Over 25 years in the industry, I’ve witnessed positive changes in the industry, including a closing gender gap that’s transforming tattooing and tattoo shops. I’m excited about these advancements.
PWM: Can you describe your artistic style and how it reflects your identity?
Miss Kitty: My traditional tattoo apprenticeship taught me to create bold, lasting designs. I’ve evolved this into a colorful, modern style using bright colors, contrasting shades, and varied line weights for a more nuanced look. Inspired by retro themes, nature, spooky motifs, and cryptids, my tattoos reflect my love for hiking, vintage finds, and the paranormal.
PWM: What are some common misconceptions about women in the tattoo industry?
Miss Kitty: People often assume a male partner taught me to tattoo or that any man in the shop is in charge—instead of me, the owner. Questions are usually directed at them rather than me, and many assume I’m new to the industry or lack experience.
PWM: What advice would you give other women looking to enter the tattoo industry?
Miss Kitty: If you’re considering a tattoo career, find a shop or artist that aligns with your values and thoroughly understand the industry before diving in. Tattooing is a serious, lifelong commitment, not a hobby. If you’re ready to dedicate nearly all your time to perfecting your craft, then you should pursue it. A one-on-one apprenticeship is essential for proper, safe training.
PWM: What role does community play in your business model?
Miss Kitty: Community is everything. I strive to create an inspiring space and host inclusive events throughout the year. I also give back through fundraisers and community events, welcoming everyone to share in the experience and connect with my shop.
PWM: What impact do you hope your work has on clients or society?
Miss Kitty: I aim for each person to feel safe, comfortable, and excited about their tattoo, ensuring it meets their vision and lasts. Beyond that, I hope my space and relationships inspire and uplift people outside the shop.
PWM: Do you support any causes or communities through your work?
Miss Kitty: Yes! Miss Kitty Tattoo/The Black Lodge has done fundraisers for Coyote Springs Elementary, The Jerome Humane Society, Ten in One, Launchpad, The Jerome Historical Society, the Town of Jerome, Migizi, and others.
PWM: Where do you see yourself and your business in five years?
Miss Kitty: I hope to keep thriving, creating tattoos that make people happy in a clean, safe, and inclusive environment. I aim to grow as an artist and person, and dream of owning a building as my permanent base to bring my artwork to life through my tattoos.
For more information about Miss Kitty and Black Lodge visit https://www.misskittytattoo.com/