Hi, I’m Jena, a self-taught blackwork tattoo artist based in Sherwood Park, Alberta. My journey into the world of tattooing hasn’t been a straight path—it’s rooted in my passion for art, my drive to create a fulfilling career, and a deep commitment to building a better future for my daughter.
I never had a clear idea of what I wanted to do or where I was headed. Like many, I bounced from job to job, working in various customer service roles. I started at a movie theater, moved on to being a barista, worked in a dog kennel, and even coordinated weddings and events for three years. At the time, I thought event planning was my calling, but that chapter closed in 2019.
When COVID-19 hit a few months later, life slowed down, and I found myself reconnecting with my creative side. I spent hours drawing and rediscovering my love for art. The thought of returning to the service industry—working for someone else—felt daunting. That’s when a spark reignited: tattooing.
Tattooing was something I had always considered but never pursued. I didn’t think I was good enough, and after four failed attempts to apprentice with artists, I started to doubt whether it was possible. But becoming a mom changed everything. I knew I needed to push harder, take risks, and show my daughter what it meant to chase a dream.
Rather than going the traditional route of an apprenticeship, I chose to carve my own path. With successful self-taught artists proving it could be done, I decided to believe in myself and give it my all. Two years later, I’m tattooing out of a cozy space in a yoga studio. It’s small, but it’s mine, and every day, I learn, grow, and refine my craft.
To kickstart my tattooing journey, I combined self-teaching with formal training through Tattooing 101, which provided me with foundational knowledge and confidence. My goal wasn’t just to learn the techniques—it was to create a career that felt authentic to who I am.
Starting my tattoo studio is about more than just creating art; it’s about building something meaningful. I’m passionate about providing a safe, welcoming space where every client feels comfortable and empowered to express themselves. This isn’t just a job for me—it’s a way to support my family, grow as an artist, and give back to my community.
As I look to the future, I’m excited about the opportunities to expand my craft, connect with incredible clients, and keep creating art that lasts a lifetime. Whether it’s through flash designs, custom pieces, or simply sharing my journey, I’m thrilled to have you here to witness it all.
If you’re curious about my work, check out my portfolio or reach out through the contact page. Thank you for being part of this journey—I can’t wait to see where it takes us!
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