We recently connected with Kate Montgomery and have shared our conversation below.
Kate, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
As a queer female tattoo artist working in an industry that’s often dominated by hypermasculine energy, I’ve learned that my identity isn’t a disadvantage — it’s a powerful asset. Being the only one in the room who looks or identifies like me has pushed me to define success on my own terms, and that has allowed me to build something both meaningful and necessary.
Rather than trying to conform to the traditional culture of tattooing, I focused on creating a space where people — especially those from marginalized or queer communities — feel safe, respected, and seen. Many clients have told me they’ve avoided getting tattooed for years because they didn’t feel comfortable or represented in typical shop environments. Being able to offer them a space that’s welcoming, trauma-informed, and nonjudgmental has not only built deep client trust, but also a loyal and diverse clientele that I adore. In a space where toughness and ego can dominate, I bring empathy, presence, and a different kind of confidence — one rooted in listening, collaboration, and staying true to my identity. My clients feel safe and seen in my studio and they trust me to put care and into their piece.
I’ve learned to be effective by listening deeply, maintaining high standards for my work, and showing up authentically. In doing so, I’ve created a community where both clients and other underrepresented artists feel empowered. My presence challenges the industry’s norms, and that disruption has opened doors — not just for me, but for others who never felt like there was a place for them in this world. That, to me, is the true measure of success.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’ve been an artist for as long as I can remember. Throughout my fine art education, I explored a variety of mediums, but I was consistently drawn to the art of tattooing — not just for its creative expression, but for its deep cultural roots and global significance. Once I began getting tattoos of my own, I started really being able to see myself in the industry. Using my previous artwork, I compiled a portfolio, and was fortunate to be mentored by my own tattoo artist, who introduced me to the foundations of the craft. That was the turning point where I fully committed to learning tattooing in a serious and intentional way.
Today, I work out of my own private studio, where I’ve had the privilege of tattooing hundreds of clients who trust me to transform their stories and experiences into lasting works of art. Over time, I’ve developed a profound appreciation for the personal nature of tattooing. It’s more than just creating beautiful designs — it’s about honoring someone’s journey. Tattooing is a powerful blend of artistry and human connection, and I feel incredibly grateful to be part of that process.
My passion for the planet is also a core element of my tattoo practice. I was studying sustainability and environmental science before ever picking up a tattoo machine. My deep love for the planet has always been a fundamental part of who I am, which led me to earn a Bachelor of Science in Sustainability from Arizona State University, along with a minor in Studio Art. Over time, that passion naturally itself integrated into my tattoo practice.
Today, that foundation informs everything I do in the studio—from using biodegradable and compostable materials to prioritizing reusable tools and sourcing from low-impact, sustainable producers whenever possible. While the tattoo industry typically relies heavily on single-use plastics to maintain hygiene, it’s possible to uphold the highest standards of cleanliness without compromising the health of the planet. For me, tattooing is more than just creating art on skin—it’s about honoring both the body and the Earth. I truly believe that creativity shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Patience – Tattooing is a craft that takes time to develop—not just the technical skill, but the confidence, control, knowledge, and presence required to do it well. In the beginning, it’s easy to feel pressure to be great right away, but the most growth happens when you give yourself permission to be a learner. My advice: slow down, focus on doing things the right way, and don’t rush the process. You’re not just learning how to tattoo—you’re learning how to tattoo well, and that takes time.
2. Strong Foundational Art Skills – Having a solid background in art—especially in drawing, design, composition, and color theory—was essential. Tattooing is unlike any other medium, but those foundational skills translate directly into better tattoos. If you’re early in your journey, invest time in life drawing, understanding shapes and flow on the body, and practicing design with intention. The more confident you are with a pencil or pen, the more control you’ll have with a machine. My biggest piece of advice for anyone starting out: draw as much as you possibly can. Draw every day. Draw from life, from reference, from your imagination. Push yourself to explore different styles and subjects. The more time you spend with a pencil or tablet in your hand, the more confident and versatile you’ll become. Tattooing requires muscle memory, precision, and a strong eye—skills that are built long before you ever touch a machine.
3. Empathy and Communication – Tattooing is incredibly personal. People trust you with their bodies, their stories, and sometimes their healing. Learning to listen, communicate clearly, and create a space where people feel safe has been just as important to my success as the tattoos themselves. If you’re starting out, take the time to understand how to read people, hold space, and establish trust. That connection is what turns clients into loyal, lifelong supporters.
Tattooing isn’t just about putting ink on skin—it’s about building relationships, honoring stories, and practicing a craft with integrity. The more you lead with humility and intention, the more sustainable and meaningful your path in this industry will be.
How would you describe your ideal client?
Honestly (and this may seem like a cop-out answer) — every client is the perfect client when there’s mutual respect, clear communication, and a shared commitment to the process.
I truly believe that every person who walks through my door brings something unique and meaningful to the experience. Whether it’s your first tattoo or your fiftieth, whether you come in with a fully-formed idea or just a feeling you want expressed — what matters most is that you show up open, thoughtful, and ready to collaborate.
The ideal client doesn’t look one specific way. You don’t need to know all the tattoo lingo or have a fully developed design in mind. You just need to be willing to trust the process, respect the space, and communicate honestly. I’ll meet you there with the same energy — ready to listen, create, and hold space for your story.
My goal is to create a space where everyone feels safe, seen, and supported. If you’re coming in with kindness, curiosity, and a love for art, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be — and you’re already the perfect client.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kateinks.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kate_inks_/?hl=en
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/kate-inks-gilbert
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
