hi, iβm kristen!
fineline tattoo artist + tattoo educator
βΉ self-taught tattoo artist
βΉ studio owner, Golden Days Studio
βΉ new mama β‘Μ
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I have always been into art & design and have always always always been creating in some form. I was in an art academy in high school, taking classes like fine art, drawing, graphic design, photography, etc. This is the first time I mentioned βit would be dope to be a tattoo artistβ β but then I never talked about it again for about 10 years. In 2019 I came across a tattoo shop, Karma House (in Bali) on instagram. They were doing ceremonial tattoos and I thought it was so beautiful and sacred, unlike anything Iβd seen or experienced in the tattoo world. It opened my mind to a whole new world of possibilities β a bridge between human connection, healing, and artistry β and I immediately grabbed my sketchbook and wrote down that I was going to become an intentional tattoo artist + any steps I could think of to get there. I started getting ads on instagram for stick and poke tattoo kits so I bought one, did one on my toe, and then all my friends started asking for them (god bless βem). It turned into a business β tattooing out of my van β that organically grew over a few years. I eventually switched to the tattoo machine, started making 6 figures, and opened my own studio. Iβve gotten so many cool opportunities and experiences, like being able to travel with tattooing, and even getting to tattoo some of my favorite artists! I have endless gratitude because I truly never thought I would make a career or living from art. From the start it has always been equally about the tattoo experience as it is about the art itself. My approach is calm, warm, and deeply reverent of the intimate energy exchange that is the tattoo experience. My hope is that your tattoo experience feels like an exhale β a pause to honor who youβve been, who you are, and who youβre becoming. Itβs the greatest honor to get to hold space and be a part of so many peopleβs journeys and life stories β and so cool + humbling to know they are carrying that art with them forever.
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I currently specialize in fineline, floral & ornamental tattoos, but I am always growing, learning, evolving, and open to exploring new styles. I have an endless drive to improve my craft and bring the things that inspire me into my artistry.
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I opened Golden Days Studio in early 2025! Itβs a multi-concept space in Buffalo, NY that is home to a collective of mindful tattoo artists, as well as a space for wellness and community. We have weekly yoga and pilates classes, events, and a coffee + herbal tea and elixir bar. Every detail of the studio was thoughtfully designed for warmth, well-being, and a beautiful, peaceful tattoo experience :)
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I typically open my books around the middle of each month for the following month. All booking is done through Vagaro, and I share any updates on my Instagram. If the booking link says βdisabled,β it just means my books are currently closed. Iβm not able to take custom tattoo requests through DMs or email β thank you so much for understanding!
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Because Iβm a self-taught artist, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find the right education, resources, and guidance when youβre starting out. Thatβs what inspired me to begin teaching! I truly love teaching, sharing my journey, and being a guide for others, and itβs been so fulfilling to witness my students stepping into their artistry!!
I currently offer my signature βFineline Foundationsβ course where I teach not only the technical and creative aspects of tattooing but how to turn it into a successful and soulful career β with mindfulness and intentionality. Itβs a self-paced digital course with tons of resources and opportunities for further mentorship and guidance.
You can check it out here!
LEARN TO TATTOO
A digital course for beginnerβs to learn the art + career of fineline tattooing, with intention.