Let us introduce the 10 most influential female artists in honor of Women’s History Month. They are true pioneers in tattooing and have demonstrated the rise of female empowerment across multiple generations. Have a look below at the list and leave your feedback in the comment section.
Maud Wagner: The OG artist
Maud Wagner, born in 1877, was America’s first female artist, meeting her husband Gus Wagner at the 1904 World’s Fair while traveling as a circus performer. Gus taught Maud the art of tattooing in traditional hand-poking style, even though the tattoo machine was invented. The couple became some of the last artists to work in this style and they spent the rest of their lives traveling the country—working both as tattooers and tattoo attractions in the sideshow scene. Wagner, her husband, died in 1961. Their daughter Lotteva is left with their tattoo legacy.
The Traditional Timepiece, Whangod
Whang-od was born in 1917 and is considered the oldest living artist. Whang-od started tattooing when he was 15 years old. He has been tattooing for almost 90 years. This traditional style is used by the Butbut to tattoo Buscalan tourists.
Shanghai Kate Hellenbrand – The Industry Legend
Shanghai Kate Hellenbrand started her tattooing career in 1971. One year later Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins invited her to join The Council of Seven, the first ever international tattoo convention held in Hawaii. Collins was later to train Hellenbrand. He would go on to work alongside legends in the industry like Jack Rudy and Ed Hardy. Hellenbrand continues to tattoo clients at Shanghai Kate’s Tattoo Parlor Austin, Texas, today.
Hannah Aitchison, The Television Titan
Hannah Aitchinson, a well-known artist and industry veteran with more than twenty years experience is world-famous. She’s best known for starring on a number of tattoo reality shows, including LA Ink And The Best Ink She is a judge. Scott White, her husband, tattoos with her today at Curiosity Shop.
Rose Hardy, The Jane of All Trades
11 Seasons of This is Ink Master Only one woman has ever been a guest judge. Rose Hardy, the woman who is this guest judge. Hardy is an iconic tattoo artist from New Zealand, who now lives in New York City. Although Hardy is a specialist in the neotraditional style, her tattoos are also very well-applied in black-and grey and in color realism. Her skills are truly diverse.
Kat Von D: The Game Changer
Kat Von D is a leader in tattoo artist success. Inspiring in Miami Ink And LA Ink Von D quickly became the most famous television performer. Von D then became a makeup mogul. She has since created one of the best beauty brands. She is currently the most popular tattoo artist on Instagram and was featured on INKED five times.
Megan Massacre: The Rebel Child
Megan Massacre started tattooing at 18 years old. She went on to become a star in the industry. NY Ink . Later she was seen on America’s Most Infamous Tattoos And Bondi Ink. Today, Massacre is the owner of NYC’s Grit and Glory and has continued to attract high-profile stars like Zayn Mallik.
Photo taken by @shootmepeter
Ryan Ashley Malarkey: Ink Master Icon
Ryan Ashley Malarkey was the first woman ever to win Paramount’s 2016 Paramount’s. The Ink Master. Malarkey, who was a winner on the reality show contest, starred in the film alongside Nikki Simpson and Kelly Doty. Ink Master: Angels . She has a private NYC studio and she tattoos convention attendees around the globe.
Grace Neutral, The Offbeat Influencer
Grace Neutral is a British tattooist who moves to the beat as both a body moderator and artist. After her appearance in Viceland, Neutral has become a well-known hand poke artist. Needles and pins This documentary explores tattoo culture all over the world.
Miryam Lumpini: Next Big Thing
Miryam Lumpini is the one to watch when it comes down to tattooing’s future. This half Swedish, half Congolese artist is dominating the Los Angeles tattoo scene, having inked major stars such as Jhené Aiko, Swae Lee, and Skrillex. Lumpini is not only a strong and vibrant tattoo artist, but also a brand that can withstand the test of time.